8 of the Best Jacksonville Suburbs for Families

Choosing to move to a new place may be stressful, but it can also be a smart decision. If you’re looking for a city that offers more opportunities and is better for your family than where you currently live, it can be worth searching somewhere new for a fresh start. We highly recommend Jacksonville. This beautiful coastal city offers many positives — from the best schools to plenty of things to do — that will only add to your quality of life. To help you make the best decision, Dream Finders Homes has put together a list of the best Jacksonville suburbs to consider for your family.

Where to Raise A Family in Jacksonville, FL

#1 | Green Cove Springs

Green Cove Springs, FL, is an ideal place for families. It offers a welcoming environment along with the highly rated Clay County School District, known for having the best schools in Jacksonville. The town is praised for its commitment to safety, with low crime rates and active neighborhood watch programs that give families peace of mind. Parks, playgrounds, and the famous spring-fed pool provide ample opportunities for family recreation and outdoor fun. Additionally, Green Cove Springs' proximity to Jacksonville offers the best of both worlds: a serene, small-town atmosphere with easy access to urban amenities and job opportunities.

#2 | Middleburg

Middleburg, FL, offers a family-friendly environment with access to well-regarded schools in the Clay County School District, making it a strong choice for parents focused on quality education. Known for its suburban-rural feel, Middleburg provides a quiet, safe town with low crime rates and a welcoming community vibe. Families enjoy a variety of outdoor spaces, from local parks to nearby Black Creek, ideal for activities like fishing, kayaking, and hiking. Additionally, Middleburg’s proximity to Jacksonville allows residents to enjoy a relaxed lifestyle with career and entertainment opportunities nearby.

#3 | Orange Park

Orange Park, FL, is a vibrant, family-friendly community offering top-rated schools within the Clay County School District. Known for its safe neighborhoods and active community involvement, the town provides peace of mind along with various recreational options for families, including parks, sports complexes, and scenic locales along the St. Johns River. The community's warm, small-town charm is complemented by easy access to Jacksonville, allowing residents to enjoy a quieter lifestyle without sacrificing proximity to city amenities and employment opportunities. Orange Park’s mix of quality education, safety, and things to do with kids makes it a hidden gem in the Jacksonville area.

#4 | Palm Coast

Palm Coast, FL is a great choice for raising a family. In addition to its beautiful beaches, the city boasts a safe and peaceful environment with a low crime rate. There are numerous family-friendly neighborhoods and the city offers a high quality of life with various outdoor activities, including parks, nature trails, and pristine Flagler beaches. For those seeking educational opportunities, the area is served by Flagler County’s reputable schools, known for their commitment to academic excellence and student support. Local activities provide educational and recreational opportunities that make Palm Coast an enriching place to grow up.

#5 | Ponte Vedra 

Ponte Vedra, FL is consistently ranked among the best places to raise a family, offering top-rated St. Johns County schools, known as some of the best in Florida. The area is renowned for its safety, low crime rates, and welcoming neighborhoods. Ponte Vedra’s family-oriented amenities include beautiful parks, pristine beaches, and extensive recreational options within the Nocatee community, such as water parks, trails, and sports fields. This community strikes a perfect balance between natural beauty, educational excellence, and safety, making it an ideal setting for raising a family.

#6 | St. Augustine

St. Augustine, FL, is a wonderful place for families, blending rich history with modern amenities that cater to children of all ages. The city’s highly rated St. Johns County schools are known for academic excellence and diverse programs that support student growth. St. Augustine offers a safe and welcoming environment with numerous family-friendly attractions, such as the Castillo de San Marcos, interactive museums, and eco-friendly outdoor adventures. With a mix of educational experiences and recreational opportunities, St. Augustine provides an enriching and enjoyable setting for raising a family.

#7 | St. Johns County 

St. Johns County, FL, is often celebrated as an ideal place for families, primarily due to its highly rated public schools, which consistently rank among the best in Florida. The county offers a safe, family-oriented environment with low crime rates and a strong sense of community. Parents appreciate the abundant family-friendly amenities, including beautiful parks, sports facilities, and a coastline filled with pristine beaches. With a perfect balance of educational excellence, outdoor recreation, and safety, St. Johns County creates a nurturing and vibrant setting for raising children.

#8 | Yulee

Yulee, FL, is a growing community ideal for families, with Nassau County schools that are highly rated for their supportive teachers and engaging programs. Known for its safe, welcoming neighborhoods, Yulee offers peace of mind along with a warm, community-oriented atmosphere. The area features numerous parks, trails, and proximity to scenic beaches, making outdoor recreation easily accessible for children and families alike. Yulee’s blend of educational quality, safety, and natural beauty makes it a wonderful place to raise a family.

Are New Construction Homes Better Than Previously Owned Homes?

When compared to a previously owned home, there are many benefits to buying a new construction home, particularly when it comes to design and efficiency. At Dream Finders Homes, one of the most trusted home builders in Jacksonville, FL, we incorporate the latest techniques in home-building and energy efficiency into our homes, along with design features that complement your lifestyle. A new construction home means there are no out-of-pocket costs for remodeling and updating – and the Dream Finders Homes Warranty Program gives you peace of mind in your decision. 

Here are some other benefits of buying a new construction home:

• All New Everything | One of the most compelling advantages of new construction homes is that they provide a fresh start. When you buy a new construction home, you are the first owner. This means no inherited wear and tear, outdated appliances, or surprise maintenance issues. Everything from the roof to the foundation is brand new and built to the latest building standards. This fresh start translates to fewer immediate costs for repairs and maintenance, which is often a significant concern with older, existing homes.
• Modern Amenities | Newly built homes are designed with the modern homeowner in mind. They often feature open floor plans, high ceilings, and large windows that allow for natural light to flood the space. These homes are also equipped with the latest technology, from energy-efficient appliances to advanced systems. This modernity is not just about aesthetics; it can lead to substantial savings in energy bills and improved overall comfort.
• Personalization | When you purchase a new construction home, especially one that is not yet completed, you often have the opportunity to personalize various aspects of the home. Such personalization is typically impossible with existing homes unless you undertake significant renovations, which can be costly and time-consuming. 
• Smart & Energy Efficient | New construction homes are at the forefront of incorporating smart technology and energy-efficient features, enhancing convenience, safety, and sustainability. Advanced insulation, efficient HVAC systems, and energy-efficient windows further decrease energy usage, leading to lower bills and a smaller carbon footprint.