your relocation guide to

North Central Florida

Your Next Adventure Starts With Us

Relocating can be exciting but also overwhelming. Whether you're moving for work, family, or a new adventure, we’re here to help you navigate the transition seamlessly. With our deep local knowledge and personalized approach, we’ll ensure you find the perfect home that fits your lifestyle.

Our Promise To You

Comprehensive

Relocation Support

From finding the right neighborhood to settling into your new community, we offer tailored services to meet your needs and make your transition as smooth as possible.

Personalized

Home Search

We'll work with you to identify homes that fit both your lifestyle and your relocation requirements. Whether you’re looking for proximity to work, schools, or outdoor activities, we’ve got you covered.

Flexible

Showings

We understand that relocation often requires flexibility. Whether you're moving from across the state or across the country, we offer remote showings to help you explore potential homes without the need to be physically present.

Why Choose North Central Florida?

North Central Florida offers a mix of small-town charm and modern amenities, all within close proximity to beautiful nature, universities, and an increasingly dynamic job market. From college students to families to retirees, there’s a perfect place for everyone here.

a small town with big city energy

Gainesville

Gainesville, Florida is a vibrant community known for its top tier universities and education system, rich culture, thriving arts scene, and beautiful natural landscapes. Home to the University of Florida, it offers a mix of urban amenities and small-town charm. With excellent schools, diverse dining options, and easy access to parks and outdoor activities, Gainesville is a welcoming to families, professionals, and students alike.

Here are some popular neighborhoods and areas of town to explore:

The Duckpond: As one of Gainesville's first neighborhoods, this charming historic neighborhood is close to downtown and boasts gorgeous early-1900s homes full of character.

Town of Tioga: This mixed-use gem with a wide range of eye-catching home styles is just steps away from restaurants, bars, shopping, Gainesville Health and Fitness Center, and activities; not to mention it's a thriving habitat for wildlife.

Oakmont: A master-planned community that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, modern amenities, and small-town charm. After being built in 2014, Oakmont has become one of the most sought-after places to live in Gainesville.

Celebration Pointe: A premiere live-work-play community that embodies big-city lifestyle while preserving the relaxing charm of Gainesville.

Milhopper (NW Gainesville): Known for both residential neighborhoods and the natural wonder of Devil's Millhopper Geological State Park.

SW Gainesville: Bustling community offering beautiful homes and neighborhoods, as well as fine dining, entertainment and activities, and tons of shopping and boutiques.

Haile: Boasting prime location in Southwest Gainesville, living here means access to amenities galore right in your backyard. Whether you're a food enthusiast, nature lover, or avid shopper, there's something for everyone.

Downtown: Boasting prime location in Southwest Gainesville, living here means access to amenities galore right in your backyard. Whether you're a food enthusiast, nature lover, or avid shopper, there's something for everyone.

Midtown: A lively and popular spot for students due to its proximity to campus, with a mix of apartment buildings and houses.

University Park: Bustling and vibrant, this neighborhood is close to the University of Florida campus and is known for its student-friendly atmosphere, eateries, and shops.

laid-back suburban retreat

Alachua

Alachua is a charming town located just 15 minutes north of Gainesville, offering a peaceful, small-town atmosphere with easy access to city conveniences. Alachua is known for its historic downtown, family-friendly environment, and proximity to nature, including scenic parks and wildlife areas. Alachua offers a slower pace of life while still being close to Gainesville’s vibrant culture and amenities, making it perfect for those seeking a balance between tranquility and convenience.

Here are some popular neighborhoods to explore:

Turkey Creek: A large highly sought-after gated golf and country club community near natural springs and trails, with lots of amenities and affordable home options.

Savannah Station: A charming, tranquil and secluded new home community nestled in the heart of Alachua, Florida just 20 minutes to UF and Gainesville.

Heritage Oaks: A traditional front porch community with 98 homes nestled in the rolling hills just outside of the Historic Alachua Town Center.

Trailhead Landing: A masterfully-planned community of new and spacious single-family homes at a desirable location in Alachua, FL.

Wyndswept Hills: A newer gated community within walking distance of downtown Alachua near US-441 and I-75.

Briarwood: Known for its modern conveniences and family-friendly environment, this community offers a variety of housing options, from single-family homes to townhouses, all designed with contemporary living in mind.

Meadow Glen: A different pace of life for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city living. This neighborhood is known for its rural tranquility and spacious properties, providing a peaceful retreat for its residents.

Country living with Modern Convenience

High Springs

High Springs, a short drive away from Alachua, is famous for its natural springs, outdoor activities, and close-knit community.

Here are some popular neighborhoods to explore:

Oak Ridge: A newer beautifully maintained community of single family ranch homes located just off US 441, for its family-friendly atmosphere and dog-friendly spaces.

Bailey Estates: Dark peaceful nights with deer roaming around and days filled with life from lawns being mowed to children playing in the neighborhood.

Edgemoor: A scenic, breathtaking community featuring large custom homes on 1+ acre lots built in the early 2000s

Cinnamon Hills Estates: A stunning gated community, with winding, hilly roads, and 1-3-5 and ten acre homesteads.

Country living with Modern Convenience

Newberry

Newberry offers the perfect blend of small-town charm and growing opportunity. Just a short drive from Gainesville, this historic town is known for its welcoming community, top-rated sports complexes, and scenic countryside. With affordable homes, strong schools, and a peaceful pace of life, Newberry is an ideal choice for families, nature lovers, and anyone looking for a little extra breathing room without being far from city conveniences.

Here are some popular neighborhoods to explore:

NewTown 1894: A charming, inviting neighborhood made up of a wide variety of beautifully designed modern craftsman style homes.

Newberry Oaks: A peaceful and family-friendly neighborhood known for its cleanliness, quiet streets, and the pleasant atmosphere ideal for raising a family.

Country Way: A charming historic neighborhood close to downtown with older homes full of character

Oak Park: A new construction, single-family home community in the heart of Newberry featuring modern floor plan designs at affordable prices.

Avalon Woods: An alluring, family-friendly community with modern homes, scenic surroundings, and convenient access to top-rated schools, shopping, and outdoor recreation—perfect for those seeking a peaceful yet connected lifestyle in Alachua County.

Arbor Greens: A well-planned, family-friendly community in Alachua County featuring spacious homesites up to 1/3 acre, a pool, clubhouse, and playground. Easy access to shopping, dining, top-rated schools, and outdoor recreation—including golf courses and Dudley Farm—just minutes from I-75.

Buchanan Trails: Offers modern, upscale homes with premium finishes, open-concept designs, and smart-home tech—all while blending small-town charm with easy access to Gainesville’s amenities, top medical facilities, and outdoor adventures.

Rural Beauties

Archer/Williston/

Bronson

Tucked away just west of Gainesville, the quiet towns of Archer, Williston, and Bronson offer a peaceful retreat from the bustle of city life. These communities are known for their wide open spaces, affordable housing, and slower pace—perfect for families seeking room to roam or retirees looking to settle into a more relaxed, rural lifestyle. With a welcoming, down-to-earth vibe and convenient access to nature, springs, and local events, this area blends country living with small-town warmth.

small town comfort with essential amenities

Lake City

Known as the “Gateway to Florida,” Lake City offers a welcoming blend of small-town charm and outdoor living. Families and retirees appreciate the affordable housing, friendly neighborhoods, and access to beautiful lakes, parks, and trails. With convenient proximity to both Gainesville and Jacksonville via I-75 and I-10, Lake City is a great option for those who value space, nature, and easy access to larger city amenities without the daily hustle.

Here are some popular neighborhoods to explore:

a growing city of opportunity

Ocala

Known as the “Horse Capital of the World,” Ocala blends Southern charm with a growing urban vibe. From sprawling horse farms to new master-planned communities, Ocala offers a range of housing options at attractive price points. With a revitalized downtown, strong healthcare and education systems, and easy access to both Gainesville and Orlando, it's a popular choice for families, retirees, and professionals seeking more space without sacrificing convenience.

Here are some popular neighborhoods to explore:

Marion Oaks: A thriving, family-friendly affordable living community with a suburban feel offering a mix of established and new homes, abundant amenities, and easy access to parks, shopping, and dining—with potential future city incorporation adding to its appeal.

Heathbrook: This is a thoughtfully designed, extremely attractive community that is quite large. It feels incredibly secluded in its perch off of Highway 200.

Historic District: First developed in 1880 as a residential neighborhood, Ocala’s Historic District s where you’ll find numerous Queen Anne Revival and Victorian-style houses.

Fort King District: This neighborhood that boasts an abundance of beautiful houses, many of which were built in the mid 1970s as well as some newer construction. The Fort King National Historic Landmark is the main attraction in this neighborhood.

Silver Springs Shores: Located to the south of the city, Silver Springs Shores is the place to find affordable homes and an overall attractive cost of living.

hidden gem with scenic views

Hawthorne

Tucked between Gainesville and Palatka, Hawthorne is a peaceful rural community known for its natural beauty, quiet pace, and strong sense of local pride. It's a great fit for families, retirees, and outdoor enthusiasts looking to stay close to nature while remaining within reach of city conveniences. With access to trails, lakes, and state parks, Hawthorne offers an inviting lifestyle rooted in simplicity and connection.

serenity, space, close community

Lake Butler

Nestled in the heart of North Florida, Lake Butler is a tranquil town offering a blend of rural charm and small-town hospitality. Known for its scenic landscapes, lakes, and parks, it provides a serene escape for families and retirees seeking a peaceful lifestyle. With affordable housing, a strong sense of community, and easy access to larger cities like Gainesville, Lake Butler is an ideal spot for those who want to enjoy nature and a slower pace of life without being far from amenities.

historic charm, Picturesque landscape

Micanopy

Steeped in history and Southern charm, Micanopy is known as “the town that time forgot.” Just minutes from Gainesville, this quaint village is beloved for its antique shops, moss-draped oak trees, and slower pace of life. Perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat with a strong sense of community, Micanopy offers a unique blend of historic homes, artistic flair, and small-town warmth that appeals to retirees, creatives, and anyone craving a quieter lifestyle.

outdoors adventures & the quiet life

Ft. White

Tucked away in the beautiful countryside of North Florida, Fort White offers a peaceful and rural lifestyle, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and those looking for a slower pace of life. Known for its proximity to the famous springs of the Santa Fe River, Fort White provides easy access to outdoor activities like kayaking, hiking, and fishing. With affordable real estate and a tight-knit community, it’s a perfect choice for families, retirees, and anyone seeking a quiet, scenic place to call home.

What You Can Expect in North Central Florida

  • Mild Weather

  • With warm summers and mild winters, this region enjoys comfortable weather year-round, perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and boating.


  • Strong Schools & Universities

  • From public schools to the University of Florida, there are numerous education options that contribute to a well-educated population.


  • Vibrant Culture & Community

  • From local festivals to farmers' markets, North Central Florida offers plenty of ways to connect with your community.

Frequently Asked Questions

Thinking of moving to North Central Florida?

Here's our take on a few common questions before you start making moves.

How much will it cost to move to North Central Florida?

The cost of relocating depends on a variety of factors, including the size of the home and neighborhood you choose. We can help you find homes that fit your budget, and we also provide resources for budgeting your move.

Do you offer any relocation packages?

Yes, we offer specialized relocation services to guide you through every step of the process, from finding your home to getting you settled in. We partner with local moving specialists to ensure your move is as smooth as possible. We provide custom quotes based on your unique needs.

What's the best way to explore North Central Florida before moving?

We recommend visiting different neighborhoods to get a feel for the area, as well as exploring local shops, restaurants, and schools. We’re happy to assist with neighborhood tours and provide additional local insights.

What are the main benefits of living in North Central Florida?

Affordable Cost of Living: The region offers a lower cost of living compared to many parts of Florida, making it attractive for families and retirees alike. ​ Access to Outdoor Recreation: With numerous state parks, lakes, springs, and rivers, residents can enjoy activities like boating, fishing, and hiking.​ Mild Climate: The area experiences warm temperatures year-round, with hot summers and mild winters, appealing to those who prefer a warmer climate.​ Proximity to Major Cities: Being centrally located allows for relatively easy travel to both of Florida coasts so the adventures in Orlando, Tampa and Jacksonville are only a quick drive away.

What are some drawbacks of living in North Central Florida?

High Humidity and Heat: Summers can be particularly hot and humid, which might be challenging for some residents. Public Transportation: The region lacks extensive public transit options, making personal vehicles essential for commuting and errands.​ Occasional Tourist Crowds: Certain areas, especially near natural attractions, can become crowded during peak tourist seasons, affecting the tranquility of the environment.​ Limited Nightlife and Entertainment: For those seeking a vibrant nightlife scene, the region may feel quieter compared to larger urban centers.

What is the quality of life like?

Educational Opportunities: The presence of institutions like the University of Florida provides educational resources and cultural events beneficial for families. ​ Community Engagement: Small-town settings foster close-knit communities with family-friendly events and activities.​ Safety: Many areas in North Central Florida are known for low crime rates, contributing to a secure environment for raising children. Cultural and Recreational Activities: Students can participate in numerous cultural events, sports, and recreational activities, enhancing their college experience. Affordable Housing: The area offers a range of housing options at various price points, often more affordable than coastal regions. Healthcare Services: Access to quality healthcare facilities, including those affiliated with the University of Florida, ensures retirees' medical needs are met.

How does North Central Florida compare to the larger cities in Florida?

Cost of Living: Generally, the cost of living in North Central Florida is lower than in major urban centers like Miami or Orlando.​ Pace of Life: The region offers a slower, more relaxed lifestyle compared to the hustle and bustle of larger cities.​ Access to Nature: Residents have closer proximity to natural landscapes and outdoor activities, which might require longer travel from urban areas.​ Employment Opportunities: While there are job opportunities, especially in education, healthcare, and agriculture, larger cities may offer a broader range of industries and higher salaries.​

What are some fun things to do in the area?

Water Sports: The region boasts numerous springs, rivers, and lakes suitable for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.​ Hiking and Biking: With various state parks and trails, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking and biking amidst scenic landscapes.​ Wildlife Observation: The diverse ecosystems support a wide range of wildlife, making it ideal for birdwatching and nature observation.​ Camping: Multiple campgrounds and parks offer camping experiences for all levels, from primitive sites to RV hookups.

How is the job market?

Education Sector: With institutions like the University of Florida, there are opportunities in academia, research, and administration.​ Healthcare Industry: Hospitals and clinics provide roles for medical professionals, technicians, and support staff.​ Agriculture and Agribusiness: The fertile lands support agricultural activities, offering jobs in farming, processing, and distribution.​ Entrepreneurship: The region's supportive environment encourages startups, particularly in tech and sustainability sectors. ​

Why did you decide to make Gainesville your home?

Gainesville became home for us because it offers the perfect mix of community and natural beauty. It’s not a big, bustling city, so we don’t have to deal with crazy traffic, and everything we need—friends, shops, schools—is just a short drive away. It’s been an amazing place to raise our kids. We get the benefits of good education, healthcare, and culture, while still enjoying that small-town charm. The real estate market here has given us the opportunity to put down roots and become part of a community that truly values growth, connection, and family. It’s not without its quirks, but it’s small enough that we can really make an impact, and our efforts are noticed. Plus, we’re lucky to be so close to some of Florida’s best beaches—just under two hours away from places like Jacksonville, St. Augustine, Daytona, Tampa, and Clearwater. It’s the best of both worlds!

ready to make a move?

Start Your Journey Today!

Email: [email protected]

Call/Text: 352-448-8780