Alachua has recently become one of the largest biotech industry hubs in the southeast U.S. But the city’s historic downtown and abundant natural beauty help maintain its Old Florida charm. Initially a farming town, Alachua is now home to a 204-acre corporate park packed with dozens of scientific research labs and biomedical companies.
Small businesses also play a major role in the local economy. “We all would rather support the local places around here than the fast-food chains,” says Assistant Deputy City Clerk Diane Amendola. Alachua’s Downtown Historic District is the heart of the city’s shopping and dining scene, with hometown restaurants and mom-and-pop shops.
Along with a thriving economy, residents enjoy a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities, top-rated public schools and easy access to the much larger City of Gainesville.
Alachua is home to Progress Park, a major source of employment for the area.
Alachua is rapidly growing, but continues to hold old Florida charm.
1/2
Historic homes, ranch-style houses and new suburbs
Alachua has a variety of housing styles and ages to choose from. Historic bungalows and Victorian homes date back to the late 1800s around the downtown district. Midcentury ranch-style homes and Spanish Revivals are scattered across the city in small subdivisions. Newly-built communities packed with traditional houses began popping up along the outskirts of town in 2021. Some colorful townhomes and condos overlook the greens at the Turkey Creek Golf Club. The median sale price in Alachua is about $340,000, more than 15 percent below Florida’s median.
Alachua boasts a rich collection of historic homes.
Keep your neighbors close in the modern developments of Alachua.
1/2
Legacy Park hosts the "Largest Small Town Fireworks Display in America"
Alachua is home to San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park. The 7,000-acre wildlife sanctuary features a 30-mile trail system, providing opportunities for hiking, biking and horseback riding. Several trails back up to Turkey Creek Golf Club, one of the only two public golf courses in Alachua County. Pocket parks and corner playgrounds are found in neighborhoods closer to the center of town. Main Street is less than a 1-mile walk from the city’s largest recreation complex, Legacy Park. Its open fields and athletic facilities host the local youth sports leagues. Each summer, the Legacy Park Amphitheater hosts Alachua’s annual Fourth of July Celebration which features the ‘Largest Small-Town Fireworks Display in America.’
Settle in before the sunset at Legacy Park in Alachua.
Drop in and stick that new trick in Alachua.
1/2
Local shops and restaurants in Alachua's Downtown Historic District
Bradford pear trees and vintage lampposts line Main Street in Alachua’s Downtown Historic District. This walkable area is the heart of the city’s retail and dining scene, with longstanding Southern restaurants, local boutiques and an old-fashioned candy store. Other hometown restaurants are hidden in small retail strips scattered across the city. Fast food chains, grocery stores and a few other national retailers border U.S. Highway 441 in the center of town.
Take music lessons or pick up some new strings at Music Junction in Alachua.
Grab a bite from the family favorite Conestogas in downtown Alachua.
1/2
Alachua County Public Schools earn an A-minus on Niche
Niche rates the Alachua County Public School System an overall A-minus, making it one of the highest-ranking districts in Florida. Gainesville High stands out with a solid A grade. It houses the Academy of Health Professions, a four-year magnet program where students can get clinical experience and industry certifications.
A.L. Mebane Middle School offers easy student pickup for parents.
Welcome to Santa Fe High School.
1/2
I-75 and highway 441 intersect in Alachua
Interstate 75 and U.S. Route 441 meet on the west side of Alachua. Downtown Gainesville is just 15 miles south via Highway 441. The Gainesville Regional Airport offers daily direct flights to Charlotte, Atlanta and Dallas-Fort Worth.
The city of about 10,500 has also grown to be the second largest city in Alachua County, only ranking below Gainesville.
Weather and crime in Alachua
Summers in Alachua are hot and muggy, while winters are short and mild. Though inland, the city still experiences flooding from heavy rains. Recent crime data for the area is not available.
Written By
Ryan Horton
Photography Contributed By
Jade Meadows
Video By
Dan Mack
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Victoria Carlisle,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Alachua, FL sell after 73 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Alachua, FL over the last 12 months is $329,994, down 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Under Construction. Be among the first to call the brand-new community of Kirkland Farms home! This thoughtfully designed neighborhood features a direct walking path to Legacy Park, where residents can enjoy a playground, disc golf course, multipurpose facility, and popular community events such as 4th of July fireworks and local concerts. Located less than a mile from beautiful Main Street in
Move-in Ready 3BR/2BA in Savannah Station! Seller concessions include a special 3.99% finance rate through the builder’s preferred lender, Acrisure Mortgage, offering FHA, VA, USDA, and conventional loans or up to $25,000 toward closing costs. This 1,512 sq. ft. home on Lot 254 features Hardy siding, stacked stone accents, and a large covered front porch. Enjoy a quiet, country-like setting close
Under Construction. Under Construction! Be among the first to call the brand-new community of Kirkland Farms home! This thoughtfully designed neighborhood features a direct walking path to Legacy Park, where residents can enjoy a playground, disc golf course, multipurpose facility, and popular community events such as 4th of July fireworks and local concerts. Located less than a mile from
Beautiful home on the fifth fairway at Turkey Creek Golf Course Community awaits its new owner. With a 4/2 split plan it’s perfect for a family or retirees who just want more room. The home has been impeccably maintained and updated with luxury vinyl title throughout and with ceramic tile in the updated bathrooms. The kitchen has been updated with granite counters and a touch of Brazilian wood
Stunning, fully renovated 4 bedroom 1.5 bathroom home with modern upgrades throughout! This home showcases a redesigned kitchen with new hard wood cabinets, quartz countertops. and stainless steel appliances. Features include a brand-new roof, new HVAC system, new water heater, new luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout, NO carpet, fresh interior and exterior paint, updated lighting, new bathroom
Welcome to this delightful 3- bedroom 2- bathroom home with solar panels perfectly situated in a peaceful and sought- after community. This property features modern commercial grade vinyl flooring in bedrooms and tile in the common areas ensuring a clean, low-maintenance living space with no carpet. It also includes a convenient in-house laundry room for added comfort. Additionally, the home
Absolutely breathtaking home in the highly sought after gated community, Wyndswept Hills! This 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath home was once a MODEL HOME for the builder so it's loaded with upgrades. From the elegant Engineered Wood Floors to the 5 1/4" crown molding, the details make this home a one of a kind. Built in 2015, this Craftsman style home sits up high with stately curb appeal. The kitchen is a
Welcome to this charming farmhouse nestled on 21+ acres in beautiful Alachua County, Florida. This two-story home boasts a welcoming front porch, perfect for enjoying your morning coffee or watching the sunset. The back porch offers a serene retreat, where you can unwind and soak in the tranquility of the surrounding nature. Step inside this cozy abode and you'll find five spacious bedrooms,
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. Over 10 Acres! Multi-family compound. One house is a 4 bedroom and 2- bathroom, The manufactured home is a three bedroom and two bathrooms. Additionally, there is she-shed. Country living in your own compound. This property offers two residences, making it ideal for multi-generational living. This is a retreat and a homestead to grow with loved
Absolutely breathtaking home in the highly sought after gated community, Wyndswept Hills! This 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath home was once a MODEL HOME for the builder so it's loaded with upgrades. From the elegant Engineered Wood Floors to the 5 1/4" crown molding, the details make this home a one of a kind. Built in 2015, this Craftsman style home sits up high with stately curb appeal. The kitchen
Under Construction. Be among the first to call the brand-new community of Kirkland Farms home! This thoughtfully designed neighborhood features a direct walking path to Legacy Park, where residents can enjoy a playground, disc golf course, multipurpose facility, and popular community events such as 4th of July fireworks and local concerts. Located less than a mile from beautiful Main Street in
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. Pre-Construction. To be built. Family-friendly new construction located only fifteen minutes from Gainesville in a growing Alachua community, just five minutes from I-75. This home offers the space and features desired while keeping Gainesville’s schools, healthcare, outdoor recreation, and employment opportunities within a short drive. Modern
Andrew CarlucciADAMS HOMES REALTY, INC.- GAINESVILLE
Welcome to The Oak — A Beautiful Family Home with Timeless Elegance Step into The Oak and be greeted by a formal entryway that adds a touch of class to this charming family home. Designed for comfort and everyday living, the main floor features a spacious family room just off the fully equipped kitchen, perfect for relaxing or entertaining. The kitchen boasts a large island and a cozy dining
Move-in Ready 3BR/2BA in Savannah Station! Seller concessions include a special 3.99% finance rate through the builder’s preferred lender, Acrisure Mortgage, offering FHA, VA, USDA, and conventional loans or up to $25,000 toward closing costs. This 1,512 sq. ft. home on Lot 254 features Hardy siding, stacked stone accents, and a large covered front porch. Enjoy a quiet, country-like setting close
Pre-Construction. To be built. Family-friendly new construction located only fifteen minutes from Gainesville in a growing Alachua community, just five minutes from I-75. This home offers the space and features desired while keeping Gainesville’s schools, healthcare, outdoor recreation, and employment opportunities within a short drive. Modern comfort, everyday convenience, and access to North
Andrew CarlucciADAMS HOMES REALTY, INC.- GAINESVILLE
Property Id: 1017478Available for immediate move-in. Looking for the new home? This newly constructed home is available for lease. This energy efficient home features high ceilings, a large great room, an open kitchen with granite counter tops. Lots of room to gather with family and friends. The owners retreat features a large walk-in closet and luxury walk in shower. Other features
Welcome to Trailhead Landings, the newest luxury homes community just southeast of downtown Alachua. This stunning one year old 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home with an office/den and a 2-car garage is now available for immediate occupancy. Nestled near Progress Corporate Park, this prime location allows you to live, work, and play within minutes from home. Key Features: · Ready to move in February
Welcome to your next home in the picturesque, gated community of Turkey Creek! This beautifully maintained single-story residence features 2 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms across approximately 1,202 sq. ft. of comfortable living space — ideal for couples, professionals, or anyone who appreciates easy, relaxed living. Step inside to discover a warm, open layout with a combined living and dining
Julien MarcotteKELLER WILLIAMS GAINESVILLE REALTY PARTNERS
Welcome to this completely renovated 3/2 in the heart of the charming city of Alachua, FL. This home is nestled on a cul-de-sac street and boasts a modern updated kitchen equipped with stainless steel appliances and beautiful quartz countertops. The living/dining room combination provides an open area for entertaining or relaxing. The home also features luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout. The
Welcome to this brand-new three-bedroom, two-bathroom home in Tara Forest East – Alachua, where modern design meets everyday comfort. This stunning residence features a rare three-car garage and a thoughtfully designed split floor plan that offers both privacy and open-concept living. Step inside to find luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout the main living areas with cozy carpeted bedrooms,
This stunning- new construction end-unit townhome offers exceptional storage. Featuring 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, this property perfectly blends style, comfort, and functionality. Located in the desirable Tara Baywood community in Alachua, this townhome offers a prime location close to Publix, restaurants, I-75, and Santa Fe High School—making convenience part of everyday living.The
This beautifully renovated home offers the ideal blend of modern interior living and an incredible outdoor paradise, perfect for those who love to entertain. The open-concept floorplan flows seamlessly into a gourmet kitchen that is a chef’s delight, featuring expansive counter space for meal prep, sleek cabinetry, and high-end finishes. Both bathrooms have been fully updated with contemporary
This 2/2 unit is immaculate! The view is the private pool. Ceramic tile and engineered hardwood/laminate in living areas. No Carpet in the unit.Newer Refrigerator. Pantry in the kitchen as well as the laundry closet with WASHER AND DRYER included. The Turkey Creek Community features the golf course, restaurant, tennis courts, playground and a community pool. 5+ Units. Fires are not allowed in
Saveela AsadKELLER WILLIAMS GAINESVILLE REALTY PARTNERS
Rare Find! Beautiful 2BR/2BA Duplex in Turkey Creek Golf Course Community Discover comfort and convenience in this beautifully designed 2-bedroom, 2-bath home in the desirable Turkey Creek community of Alachua. This spacious 1,028 sq. ft. home offers an open-concept layout, bright living area with sliding glass doors for effortless indoor-outdoor living, and a large two-car garage. Homes offering
Step into this fully updated, move-in-ready single-family home located in the heart of downtown Alachua! Offering the perfect blend of charm and modern updates, this home puts you within walking distance to local shopping, restaurants, and community events, while being only 15–20 minutes from Gainesville, UF, and major hospitals. With no HOA, you’ll enjoy the freedom to make this property truly
This 3 large bedrooms, 2 full baths home is only 15-20 minutes from Gainesville, FL. It's on a nice residential street less than one mile from downtown Alachua. There is a big backyard and lovely front yard with lots of flowers, plants, and trees. Enjoy the newer dishwasher, garbage disposal, washer/dryer, and nice sized bedrooms. The home has a newer HVAC system! All tile throughout. You will
Enjoy the quiet country life in this ranch style home overlooking vast farmland with the best sunset view around! This 3 bedroom/2.5 bath house is a rare find conveniently located between Alachua and High Springs allowing for country living with quick access to town and I-75. Newly renovated updates include interior and exterior paint, new Luxury Vinyl Plank flooring in the common areas and
Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
