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.
Alachua boasts a rich collection of historic homes.
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 76 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Alachua, FL over the last 12 months is $326,640, down 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
This 2002 Homes of Merit, 4 Bed, 2 Bath property offers a well-designed lay out for flow and spaciousness. Features include a split bedroom floor plan, two living areas, a dedicated dining space, and large kitchen with abundant cabinetry and generous counter space—perfect for everyday living and entertaining. The large primary suite has a walk-in closet and a large en-suite bath featuring a
Under Construction. Be among the first to call Kirkland Farms home! This brand-new community offers a direct walking path to Legacy Park—featuring a playground, disc golf course, multipurpose facility, and popular events like 4th of July fireworks and local concerts. This beautifully designed 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom home features hardie siding, stacked stone accents, and timeless curb appeal.
Courtney BaysADAMS HOMES REALTY, INC.- GAINESVILLE
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. Under Construction. This 2 story home features a well-appointed kitchen that overlooks the living and dining areas and flows outdoors to a covered lanai. The flex space at the front of the home and a guest room and full bath off the living area complete the first floor. Upstairs, Bedroom 1 is complete with an ensuite bathroom and offers tons of
Jessica CruzDR HORTON REALTY OF WEST CENTRAL FLORIDA
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 a beautifully maintained 3 bedroom home located on a quiet cul-de-sac street just minutes from downtown Alachua. This move-in ready home combines classic charm with modern updates, perfect for first-time buyers without sacrificing comfort. Step inside to find a bright, open living area with plenty of natural light and updated flooring throughout. The kitchen has ample cabinet space,
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,
Brand New Construction 3-Bed, 2-Bath Home in Tara Forest East Be the first to live in this stunning new single-family home located in the desirable, master-planned community of Tara Forest East in Alachua, FL. This residence offers modern living with an open-concept floor plan and access to excellent community amenities. Property Features: Spacious Layout: An inviting, low-maintenance
Your search is over! This cozy 3-bedroom, 1-bath home in the City of Alachua is just minutes from I-75 and a quick commute to Gainesville. Inside, enjoy luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout and a beautifully updated bathroom. The dining area is conveniently located off the kitchen, with easy access to your spacious, fully fenced backyard. Step outside to enjoy your very own fruit
Rare Find! Beautiful 2BR/2BA Duplex in Turkey Creek Golf Course CommunityDiscover 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
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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.
