Moving to Northeast Florida from New York: Lifestyle Wins, New Construction & 55+ Living
Thinking about moving from New York to Northeast Florida? Here’s why so many New Yorkers choose the First Coast—more home for your money, no state income tax, beaches and parks in every direction, and easy sub-3-hour flights back to NYC. Whether you want a brand-new build with incentives, a low-maintenance 55+ lifestyle, or a family-friendly neighborhood near great schools, Red Door Realty Group will help you compare areas, builders, fees, and commute options—then negotiate the details.
Why Live in Northeast Florida?
-
- Cost of living & taxes: Keep more of your paycheck with Florida’s no state income tax. Day-to-day expenses and housing are typically lower than NYC metro.
- Outdoor lifestyle: Atlantic beaches, Intracoastal Waterway, riverfront parks, boating, golf, and miles of trails—year-round.
- Diverse communities: From walkable beach towns to master-planned suburbs (Nocatee, Seven Pines, Rivertown), you’ll find new builds and established neighborhoods.
- Connectivity: Multiple daily nonstops NYC ⇄ JAX; typical flight times under three hours—perfect for hybrid work and family visits.
Get an Edge: Our New Construction Buyer Rebate – We Work For You. You Get Paid!
Building new? We’ll help you compare builder incentives (rate buydowns, closing-cost credits, design-studio promos) and—when eligible—show you how to stack those with our Buyer Rebate to maximize savings. Important: involve us before you register at a model home so we can represent you and protect your leverage.
See if you qualify for the Buyer Rebate »
Get Our New Construction Buyer Rebate
See if you qualify—combine builder incentives with our rebate where allowed.
New Construction in Northeast Florida: Builders, Incentives & Listings
From Jacksonville’s Southside and Mandarin to Ponte Vedra / Nocatee and St. Augustine, the First Coast offers a steady pipeline of new construction homes—including energy-efficient designs, smart-home features, and warranties. We’ll map your commute, HOA/CDD fees, school zones, and timelines—then shortlist communities and builders that fit your budget and goals.
-
- Compare builders: Toll Brothers, ICI, Pulte, David Weekley, Dream Finders, Lennar, Providence, Dostie, Riverside, and more.
- Understand fees: HOA/CDD structures vary by neighborhood—know what’s included before you sign.
- Leverage timing: End-of-phase and inventory homes can mean better pricing or incentives.
Explore featured new construction neighborhoods »
Explore New Construction in Northeast Florida
Compare builders, communities, HOA/CDD fees, and quick-move-ins.
Explore New Construction in Northeast Florida
Would you like to tour a New Construction Community?
55+ (Active Adult) Communities: Low-Maintenance, High-Amenity Living
If you’re ready for a lock-and-leave lifestyle with social clubs and daily activities, Northeast Florida’s 55+ communities deliver: clubhouses, fitness centers, pickleball/tennis, pools, trails—and some offer golf. We’ll help you compare dues, what’s included, and the feel of each neighborhood so you can land where you’ll thrive.
-
- St. Johns County: Del Webb Nocatee, Del Webb Ponte Vedra (Riverwood), Stillwater (golf), WaterSong at RiverTown, Reverie at TrailMark
- Duval County: Del Webb eTown, Del Webb Sweetwater
- Clay County: Freedom at Arbor Mill
55+ Communities: Low-Maintenance, High-Amenity Living
Clubs, fitness, pickleball, trails—and some with golf. Tour top options.
Popular Areas for Former New Yorkers
-
- Ponte Vedra & Nocatee (St. Johns): master-planned amenities, newer homes, top-rated schools.
- Jacksonville Beaches & Intracoastal: coastal lifestyle with dining, arts, and quick access to the ocean.
- Southside & Mandarin: commuter-friendly locations with established neighborhoods and services.
- St. Augustine & World Golf Village: history, golf, and a mix of new builds and resale options.
- Clay County (Fleming Island, Oakleaf): exceptional value with parks and river access.
FAQs: Moving from New York to Northeast Florida
Do I need my own agent for new construction?
Yes. The onsite rep works for the builder. We represent you—from lot selection and contract terms to inspections, timelines, and incentives. Start with our new-home construction REALTOR® guide.
Can I combine builder incentives with your Buyer Rebate?
Often yes, but it depends on the community, lender, and contract language. Involve us before you register at a model home so we can structure both. See how our program works: 1% Buyer Rebate—step-by-step.
Who qualifies for the New Construction Buyer Rebate?
Eligibility varies by lender, builder, and property. Certain buyer categories (e.g., Military, First Responders, Teachers, Healthcare, etc.) may qualify; terms change. Check your options here: New Construction Buyer Rebate.
What inspections should I plan on for a Florida new build?
Beyond standard inspections, we often recommend a phase (pre-drywall) inspection, a final inspection, plus WDO/termite and, for insurance savings, a wind-mitigation report.
How do HOA and CDD fees work in Northeast Florida?
HOA dues maintain neighborhood amenities/standards. A CDD (Community Development District) repays infrastructure bonds via your tax bill. We’ll estimate both for each community and compare what’s included.
What’s the timeline for building a new home right now?
Build times vary by builder and phase—commonly 6–12+ months. “Inventory” or quick-move-in homes may close faster. We’ll help you time your move from New York.
Is flood insurance required?
It depends on the property’s flood zone and lender. We’ll pull preliminary flood info early and connect you with local insurance pros to quote options.
What affects Florida home insurance costs?
Roof age/type, wind-mitigation features, distance to coast, construction year, and claims history. Newer roofs and wind-rated features can help. Shop quotes early.
How quickly can I fly back to NYC from Jacksonville?
Multiple daily nonstops typically run under three hours (JAX ⇄ LGA/JFK), making hybrid schedules and frequent family visits practical.
Are there good 55+ (Active Adult) options?
Yes—Del Webb Nocatee, Del Webb Ponte Vedra (Riverwood), Stillwater (golf), WaterSong at RiverTown, Reverie at TrailMark, Del Webb eTown/Sweetwater, and more. Start here: Featured Active Adult Communities.
Do 55+ communities allow younger family members to live with me?
Most age-restricted communities require at least one resident to be 55+, with rules for household age and length of stays. We’ll confirm each HOA’s policy.
Should I rent first or buy?
Depends on timing and inventory. If you need extra certainty on areas/schools, renting first can help. With clear priorities and strong inventory, buying may make more sense. We’ll model both paths.
How does Florida’s Homestead Exemption work for new residents?
Primary-residence owners can apply for property-tax savings; the Save Our Homes cap may limit future assessment increases. Deadlines and documents vary by county; we’ll point you to the right office.
When should I establish Florida residency?
Coordinate with your CPA. Residency typically involves driver’s license, voter registration, vehicle registration, and spending time in state. Plan your timeline with your tax professional.
Can I buy remotely from New York?
Yes. We offer live video tours, digital contracts, remote inspections, and mobile notary/online closings in many cases. We’ll be your eyes on the ground.
What about school zones and magnet/charter options?
We’ll show you current public/private options, then you’ll verify school boundaries and programs directly with the district before you sign.
How do property taxes compare?
Rates vary by county and community. Newer construction or CDDs can change the picture. We’ll pull current estimates for any short list you’re considering.
Are short-term rentals allowed?
Rules depend on city/county and HOA documents. If rental flexibility matters, we’ll target communities and municipalities that fit your plan.
What’s the best first step if I’m still in New York?
Schedule a discovery call, share your must-haves, budget, and timing, and we’ll build a short list—new builds, 55+, or resale—plus a plan to tour in person or virtually.
FAQs: Florida Homestead Exemption
Does a second home or investment property qualify for Florida Homestead Exemption?
No. The Florida Homestead Exemption applies only to your primary residence.
Can new Florida residents apply right away for Florida Homestead Exemption?
Yes—once you occupy the home as your primary residence and establish Florida residency. Timing depends on your closing date and county deadline.
Will Florida Homestead Exemption lower my mortgage payment?
Indirectly. If granted, it can reduce the property tax portion of your escrow. Confirm timing with your lender/servicer.
What if I miss the filing deadline?
Some counties allow late filing with documentation; others require filing in the next cycle. Contact your county property appraiser ASAP.
How do CDD and HOA fees affect taxes?
CDD assessments usually appear on your tax bill (separate from ad valorem taxes). HOA dues are paid to the association. Homestead doesn’t remove CDD/HOA obligations.
What documents will I need to file?
Commonly: Florida driver’s license/ID (property address), vehicle and voter registration (as applicable), recorded deed/closing docs, and sometimes a utility bill. Check your county list.
What is Save Our Homes?
A state cap that can limit future increases in your assessed value once homestead is granted—helping stabilize taxes long-term.
Can I transfer (port) my Save Our Homes benefit?
Possibly—if you’re moving from another Florida homestead property. Portability rules and deadlines apply; consult your county appraiser and CPA.
Where do I file in Northeast Florida?
Start with your county property appraiser (Duval, St. Johns, Clay, or Nassau). Ask us for current links and forms.
Let’s Make Your Move Easy
Get a tailored short list, virtual tours, and guidance on incentives, HOA/CDD, insurance, and homestead.
Related Guides & New Construction Rebates
Upsizing & Living Your Dream in Retirement
Thinking about a smarter “right-size” move in Florida? See practical ways to align lifestyle, budget, and community amenities.
Read: A Unique Perspective on Upsizing & Living Your Dream in Retirement »
How the 1% New Construction Buyer Rebate Works
Step-by-step: eligibility, timing, and how to stack builder incentives with our Buyer Rebate when allowed.
Read: How the 1% New Construction Buyer Rebate Works in Northeast Florida »
St. Johns County New Construction Rebate
See how our rebate applies in St. Johns County communities (Nocatee, Ponte Vedra, St. Augustine, and more).
Jacksonville New Construction Rebate
Compare Jacksonville neighborhoods and builder incentives—and learn where the rebate can add savings.