Nestled on the northeast coast of Florida, St. Johns County is a part of the Jacksonville metropolitan area. It’s a wonderful place to live and work for a myriad of reasons. Both families and young adults will find something for them in this area. From its rich history to the affordable price of living, this county has a lot to offer to those looking to relocate.
But which neighborhoods are the safest? Let’s take a look at the best options.
What Makes a Community Safe?
When we look at what makes a community safe, we’re mostly referring to the local crime rate. Since crime is a fairly broad concept, it’s often divided up by severity to get a clearer scope of how safe a given area is. The latest FBI crime report breaks down crime rates from 2019. It reveals that there was an average of 2,109.9 property crimes per 100,000 people and 379.4 violent crimes per 100,000 people that year.
We’re going to take a look at what the property and violent crime rates are in each neighborhood as we evaluate the safest places to live in St. Johns. Each of these areas has a lower crime rate than the national average meaning you are less likely to encounter property crimes or violence.
Fruit Cove
Photo Credit: Twisted Compass
With highly-rated schools and views of the beautiful St. Johns River, Fruit Cove is the quintessential Florida family community. It is rated as a highly safe region of the county as well as a great place to raise children.
Population: 32,230
Median Home Value: $333,400
Property Crime Rate: 54% lower than the national average
Violent Crime Rate: 55% lower than the national average
Nocatee
Photo Credit: Nocatee official website
Nocatee offers a suburban feel with plenty of green spaces to enjoy. In fact, it’s only a short drive away from the stunning Guana River Wildlife Management Area. This neighborhood also boasts a well-known water park. On top of all other perks, it is also extremely safe.
Population: 14,747
Median Home Value: $389,500
Property Crime Rate: 64% lower than the national average
Violent Crime Rate: 65% lower than the national average
Palm Valley
Photo Credit: Home Town America
An affluent neighborhood with a large population of retirees, Palm Valley is a slow-paced community. It is among the safest areas in the St. Johns area. There are many restaurants to try, beautiful beaches, and picturesque places to golf.
Population: 21,292
Median Home Value: $476,800
Property Crime Rate: 57% lower than the national average
Violent Crime Rate: 58% lower than the national average
St. Augustine Beach
Photo Credit: Florida’s Historic Coast
St. Augustine Beach is a relatively small community situated on the Atlantic Ocean-facing coast. As you might imagine it’s renowned for its white-sand beaches and seaside restaurants, but this safe and secure neighborhood isn’t just for tourists. Residents love fishing off the pier and relaxing in Ocean Hammock Park.
Population: 6,933
Median Home Value: $415,400
Property Crime Rate: 44% lower than the national average
Violent Crime Rate: 85% lower than the national average
Sawgrass
Photo Credit: Golf Holiday Direct
If you’re looking for a community that’s even smaller than St. Augustine Beach, Sawgrass might be the place for you. Located near Ponte Vedra Beach, this neighborhood is home to The Players Championship. It also ranks as one of the safest neighborhoods in St. Johns County with excellent property and violent crime rates.
Population: 4,841
Median Home Value: $529,900
Property Crime Rate: 74% lower than the national average
Violent Crime Rate: 74% lower than the national average
World Golf Village
Photo Credit: Morning Read
Golf fanatics will love the World Golf Village community. This area is interwoven with acres of nature preserves, pristine housing, and, of course, premier golf courses. It is a fairly safe area located conveniently off of State Highway 9, right in between Jacksonville and St. Augustine.
Population: 18,327
Median Home Value: $273,500
Property Crime Rate: 43% lower than the national average
Violent Crime Rate: 44% lower than the national average
Moving to St. Johns County
These are just a small sample of the remarkable, family-friendly neighborhoods in and around the St. John County region. You’ll love the safety and security of these neighborhoods along with all the amenities they offer. If you’re thinking about buying property in northeastern Florida, you’ll need a realtor that knows this area inside and out. I would be happy to guide you through the home buying process. Together, we’ll track down the perfect St. Johns home for you and your family!
Sources:
1. FBI
https://www.fbi.gov/services/cjis/ucr/publications
2. Area Vibe
https://www.areavibes.com/library/neighborhood-crime-statistics/
3. Niche
https://www.niche.com/places-to-live/search/best-places-to-live/c/st-johns-county-fl/