Jacksonville vs. Clay County vs. St. Johns County: Which Fits Your Move?
Thinking about moving to Northeast Florida but not sure whether Jacksonville, Clay County, or St. Johns County is right for you? You’re not alone. Here’s a simple, side-by-side look at commute patterns, lifestyle vibes, and cost considerations so you can feel confident narrowing your shortlist.
Commute & Getting Around Northeast Florida
Jacksonville (Duval County):
If your job is downtown or nearby, living within Jacksonville can shorten the drive. Key corridors and crossings include I-95, I-295, JTB/202, and bridges like the Fuller Warren and Buckman.
Clay County:
Expect a more suburban-style commute. Getting to downtown Jacksonville or NAS Jax typically takes longer, and east-of-the-river trips often include the Buckman Bridge.
St. Johns County:
Commute time depends on how far north vs. south you live. The I-95 corridor can flow or slow depending on the time of day and season. Always test your route during your actual commute window.
Quick tip: Try your route at different times (morning, evening, weekend). A 10–30 minute shift can change everything.
Public Schools in Northeast Florida (How to Research)
To keep things fair-housing safe and accurate, rely on official resources for school information. District boundaries and ratings change—always verify with the school district and independent sources before you decide.
Action step: Use the district’s official site and state resources to check zoning, programs, and enrollment steps for any address you’re considering. I’m here to make it easier for you by providing the links:
Here are the 3 public schools:
Want to see the school scores?
Florida Dept Of Education Accountability
Lifestyle Snapshot in Northeast Florida
Jacksonville:
Faster-paced city feel in many pockets, with diverse dining, arts venues, river access, the Beaches nearby, and an extensive park system (from small “pocket” parks to larger recreation areas).
Clay County:
Generally a quieter suburban feel with established communities and local hubs (e.g., the Town of Orange Park). Easy access to the St. Johns River and regional shopping corridors.
St. Johns County:
Many newer master-planned communities and amenity-rich neighborhoods, coastal access, boating and golf opportunities, and proximity to historic St. Augustine.
Cost & Market Considerations in Northeast Florida
While numbers move month to month, a common pattern is:
- Jacksonville & Clay County: Often similar, with Jacksonville frequently offering more options at a given price point across varied neighborhoods and home ages/styles.
- St. Johns County: Tends to run higher on median price compared with Jacksonville and Clay County. With newer communities and coastal proximity, plan for that in your budget.
Remember, your monthly payment includes Principal + Interest + Taxes + Insurance (+ HOA/Condo/CDD where applicable). Fees and taxes vary by area, so two homes with the same price can have different monthly payments.
How to Decide (Fast)
- Map your commute (bridge/corridor you’ll use most).
- Pick your home type (condo, townhome, single-family; newer vs. older).
- Set a comfortable monthly payment (get quotes for homeowners/flood insurance if needed).
- Shortlist 3 areas and visit at different times of day.
- Compare trade-offs (lot size, amenities, proximity to your regular stops).
Want a Closer Look?
Tour Oakleaf Plantation (Orange Park, Clay County) – neighborhood overview and typical home styles.
Explore the Mandarin Area (Jacksonville) – established neighborhoods and corridor access.
If you’d like a custom shortlist based on your commute route and target payment, text “SHORTLIST” to 904-910-3516 and I’ll send you three areas to start—no pressure.
Pam Graham • NortheastFloridaLife.com • 904-910-3516 • pam@pamgraham.com
