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.
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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.
Keep your neighbors close in the modern developments of Alachua.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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On average, homes in Alachua, FL sell after 81 days on the market compared to the national average of 50 days. The median sale price for homes in Alachua, FL over the last 12 months is $330,125, down 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to Your Dream Country Retreat! Homes like this don’t come on the market often—this beautifully updated 5-bedroom, 2-bathroom home with an office (or optional 6th bedroom) is a rare find! Nestled on over 10 acres down a quiet private road with only four houses, this property offers peaceful seclusion just minutes from Alachua and Gainesville. The home has been freshly painted inside and
Becky SmallwoodMATCHMAKER REALTY OF ALACHUA COUNTY
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. This four bedroom, 2 bathroom open concept home is just what you have been looking for! Over an half acre of land to roam freely in your backyard! The possibilities are endless! Add a pool is you feel so moved, maybe a pergola, jungle gym, dog run or all of the above!! There is space!!! Enjoy creative culinary moments in your kitchen and serve the
Under Construction. Seller concessions include a special finance rate of 4.99%. The rate applies to builders' preferred lender, FBC Mortgage, which utilizes FHA, VA, USDA, or conventional loans, with up to $20,000 towards closing costs or a buydown. Adams Homes in Savannah Station is a community situated in a quiet, country-like setting yet conveniently close to all your shopping needs.
Nestled in the charming city of Alachua, this beautiful 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offers modern comfort and a prime location! Step inside and be greeted by an inviting open floor plan, perfect for seamless living and entertaining. The heart of the home is the stylish island kitchen, featuring sleek stainless steel appliances and ample counter space, making meal prep a delight. Retreat to the
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 a shed that looks a lot like a tiny home. Country living in your own compound. This property offers two residences, making it ideal for multi-generational living. This is a retreat and a
Peace and tranquility are what you will find coming to your new home site in the historic High Springs/Alachua area. This 10.99-acre lot has the perfect mix of cleared land surrounded by beautiful trees with a private drive off CR 2054. Many options with this property as there is no HOA or deed restrictions. The mobile home is ready to move in to and fix up, you could replace it with a newer home
BRAND NEW CONSTRUCTION - 3 Bed 2 bath Single Family HomeWelcome home to this beautifully built, brand-new construction nestled in a desirable and growing neighborhood. Located at 14491 NW 165th Rd, this modern, move-in ready residence offers the perfect blend of comfort, style, and convenience for today’s tenant.Property Highlights:3 Car Garage ! Brand new build – be the very
Welcome to this stunning 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home located in the heart of Alachua, FL. This property boasts a variety of amenities designed to enhance your living experience. The open floor plan creates a spacious and inviting atmosphere, perfect for entertaining or simply relaxing. The kitchen is equipped with modern stainless steel appliances, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication.
Gia and Scott ArvinMATCHMAKER REALTY OF ALACHUA COUNTY
For rent- this impeccably maintained home sits on 1 acre- the perfect size to garden, play & entertain without all the extra land to maintain, & backs up only to trees. The warm wood flooring, expansive sliding glass doors & vaulted ceilings create a luxurious & inviting living space. A huge bonus room gives you plenty of space for gatherings, fitness, a playroom & more, while the 4th bedroom
NILACALA KHURANAKELLER WILLIAMS GAINESVILLE REALTY PARTNERS
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