Hawthorne offers rural living and proximity to Gainesville
The small city of Hawthorne offers an appealing combination of rural living amid the natural attractions of Alachua County and proximity to the modern amenities of nearby Gainesville. “It’s just a quiet little town. It’s rich with lakes, so it’s good for outdoorsy people,” says Susan Hicks of Rabell Realty Group, who has sold homes throughout the region. Agriculture and small-scale manufacturing remain important to the local economy, which officials are trying to diversify through development of Hawthorne Industry Park. About 1,500 residents enjoy access to local shopping, dining and schools, while the cultural attractions and economic opportunities of Gainesville are just a short drive away.
Homes
The community’s housing is typical small-town Florida. Older homes in a variety of sizes and architectural styles mingle with midcentury designs along quiet, narrow streets filled with mature trees. Newly built contemporary homes add to the diverse mix, which includes manufactured homes. Several homes can be found in waterfront settings. Prices can start under $50,000 for the smallest fixer-uppers, and typically don’t exceed much more than $300,000. Larger lots outside the city limits are especially appealing for homebuyers seeking the freedom of non-HOA housing. These homes have a Hawthorne address but are in Putnam County. "Once you get to Putnam, the taxes are so much cheaper," Hicks says. Flooding is not a factor in this inland location, but wind damage can still be a major risk during hurricane season.
Surround lakes are an attraction for outdoors enthusiasts
Residents can fish, float and boat the surrounding lakes. Little Orange Lake is among the smaller lakes just outside the community. Not far away are larger bodies: Lochloosa Lake and Orange Lake, which are connected, and Newman Lake. Hikers and bikers have local access to the Gainesville-Hawthorne Trail, a 16-mile paved path through the natural landscape. Little Orange Creek Nature Preserve, which borders the community, is among several natural spaces that offer additional amenities and outdoor adventures. The community also offers plenty of its own recreational spaces. Hawthorne Athletic Park is the center of organized baseball and softball activity. Lindsey Phillips Park is a city green space on the shores of Lake Johnson. The Hawthorne Community Center is nearby.
Students don't have to leave the community to attend school
Hawthorne is served by a pair of schools within the community under the direction of Alachua County Public Schools. Chester Shell Elementary, rated C-plus by Niche, serves students in pre-kindergarten through fifth grade. Hawthorne Middle/High School, rated B-minus, features an agribusiness magnet program. The district, which earns an A-minus from Niche, offers school choice, so eligible students can attend schools outside of their geographic zones.
The Burger Barn stands out along the 301 commercial corridor
The Burger Barn is an iconic drive-thru and featured destination along the U.S. Highway 301. “It’s actually a quite decent burger,” Hicks says. Shopping and dining options, which include a retail center and a supermarket, are conveniently concentrated along 301. More options can be found in Gainesville, including malls, boutique shops and an array of contemporary restaurants and bars. Gainesville is also home to several museums and performing arts venues.
Easy access to education, health care jobs in Gainesville
Without public transportation serving the area, the community is mostly car-dependent. Florida State Road 20, which runs through the heart of the community, provides a direct route to Gainesville, about 15 miles away. Gainesville is the county seat and economic center of the region. It is home to the University of Florida and UF Health Shands Hospital, two of the area’s top employers. “To get to Shands and UF, even in the heat of traffic, is maybe 25 minutes,” says Hicks, who adds that the location allows residents to travel north to Ocala and west to Palatka for work. The Gainesville Regional Airport is about a 20-mile drive from the community.
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Matt Pallister
