Windy Hill-Saint Johns Town Center

It's easy to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle with some of the city's best retail and dining experiences when you're in Windy Hill/St. Johns Town Center. Shopping dominates this desirable neighborhood, however, many call this bright commercial district home. The housing market in the area offers a wide range of options, including trim subdivisions, apartment complexes, townhouses, and manufactured homes.

The area has several midcentury bungalows and well-maintained ranch houses. Dwellings from the 1990s have side entry garages with a mix of brick and vinyl siding exteriors. Residences from the last 20 years are generally contemporary ranch-style homes covered in stucco. You will also find a handful of developments with gated entrances offering added privacy for residents. Most houses list between $200,000 and $400,000 and cost an average of $150 to $250 per square foot. However, potential buyers can pay upwards of $500,000 for a home larger than 2,000 square feet. Julie Bavington, a Senior Real Estate Specialist with EXP Northeast Florida, says those looking for condos can expect to pay between $200,000 and $300,000.

Young residents may spend the school day at Windy Hill Elementary, a highly-rated school with an overall A- on Niche. Southside Middle promises an International Baccalaureate magnet program for enrolled learners and earned a C- on Niche. Older students may head to Sandalwood High, which received a B on Niche. Parents may also choose the faith-based option, Blessed Trinity Catholic School, which opens its doors to all students until the end of their eighth-grade year. The University of North Florida neighbors the neighborhood's eastern side, and just north is the Florida State College of Jacksonville's South Campus.

"Locals are attracted to the diverse shopping and dining that this part of the city offers," says Bavington. To the north is the Beach Boulevard Flea Market, a covered shopping center open every day to locals hunting for a bargain. The market has a number of vendors selling home goods, appliances and fresh produce all in one spot. For a more upscale shopping experience, head to St. Johns Town Center, one of the city's most notable commercial corridors. Planted in the heart of the community, the open-air shopping hub has grown to over 150 retailers and dining locations. The retail destination has premium and luxury shopping brands that attract locals across the region.

For spectacular views of the shopping center at sunset, visit RH Rooftop Restaurant Jacksonville. This exclusive dining establishment is all about atmosphere--with an indoor water fountain, large windows, outdoor rooftop seating, and a glowing fire pit. For a more laid-back experience, head to Johnny Angel's Diner. The eatery is decked out in 1950s American theme décor and kitschy furnishings such as black and white photos, pastel-colored tabletops, and a vintage jukebox.

But this area is more than just shops and good eats. You'll also find a handful of public green spaces nearby to enjoy the beautiful Florida weather. The peaceful retreat, Beach and Peach Urban Park is located along Peach Drive. The park contains a five-acre fishing pond and a wooden deck overlooking the placid waters. Many come here to use the walking trails or the bike jumps toward the back of the grounds. Forestry Tower Park is a simple community gathering spot with shaded pathways, a play area, and tables underneath a gazebo. The park's most notable feature is the decommissioned fire tower that now stands as a landmark, towering over a melody of cedar, pines, and oak trees.

When it comes to after-dinner entertainment, Windy Hill/St. Johns Town Center has you covered. Sit back on cozy lounge chairs while watching a movie at Cinemark Tinseltown, or practice your swing and drink at Top Golf. With an eclectic array of restaurants, shopping and a handful of relaxing green spaces, there's always something exciting to do in Windy Hill.

Written By

Ashley Kennedy

Photography Contributed By

Bradley Parrish