Lakeside is a census-designated place about 20 miles southwest of Jacksonville, home to more than 31,000 people. It is a more established community than several other parts of Clay County, says lifelong resident and Realtor William Saunders of Keller Williams First Coast Realty. Some homes date back to the 1960s, much earlier than communities in the county that were not formed until the 2000s. “There’s a lot more neighborhoods and decent-sized lots,” he says.
Lakeside also has a sizeable population of military families because of its proximity to Naval Air Station Jacksonville, just 10 miles away.
A nice-sized yard and long-time residents are what you will find in many areas of Lakeside.
The U.S. Navy Blue Angels fly with the skies of Jacksonville to a record crowd- at Naval Air Station Jacksonville .
1/2
Single-family homes built between the 1970s and 1990s most common in Lakeside
The median price in Lakeside is about $396,000, on par with the national median but a little higher than the $310,000 median in nearby Jacksonville. Single-family brick homes built in the 1970s through 1990s are common. Some newer construction homes are also available. Buyers can find some townhomes in the area, with smaller ones available for as low as $140,000. Homes with waterfront access to Doctor’s Lake sell for more than $1 million. Saunders says Lakeside neighborhoods are also less likely to have homeowner’s associations and related fees and regulations.
Older areas are where you will find beautiful brick homes in Lakeside.
There are many waterfront homes with docks that reach out to Doctors Lake in Lakeside.
1/2
An A-rated public school district and other school options
Lakeside is served by the Clay County School District, which has an A rating from Niche. St. Johns Country Day School is a popular private school in the area. St. Johns Classical Academy is a free charter school with two campuses in the area.
St. Johns River State College also has a campus in Lakeside that offers multiple associate degree programs and a handful of bachelor’s programs.
Orange Park High School is one of the high-rated high schools in Clay County.
St. Johns River State College offers various degrees, such as liberal arts and computer programming.
1/2
Big-box retailers along Blanding Boulevard and local restaurants near the water
Many shopping centers with chain restaurants and big-box retailers sit along Blanding Boulevard, the main thoroughfare, which cuts through Lakeside diagonally. A few locally owned restaurants can be found sprinkled around town, including along the water. The Sunset Tiki Bar and Whitey’s Fish camp, both in neighboring Fleming Island, are popular with locals, Saunders says, and often have live music. Grumpy’s, a regional diner, is also a favorite.
Lakeside residents appreciate having a WalMart close by.
Grumpys is a favorite for breakfast and lunch in Lakeside.
1/2
Sports complexes and nearby beaches
Lakeside has a few community parks, including W.E. Varnes Park, which has a playground and pickleball courts. Moody Avenue Park is a sports complex with multipurpose fields, a playground and picnic areas.
Residents who enjoy the water are just a short drive away from Atlantic Coast beaches and the St. Johns River. The Lakeshore Boat Ramp in Fleming Island is the nearest public area with a boat ramp and kayak launches.
The Thrasher Horne Center is a performing arts venue on the campus of St. Johns River State College. It hosts numerous events and shows each year.
Lakeside residents enjoy the newly rehabbed pickle pall courts at W.E Varnes Park.
The Lakeshore Boatramp and pier allow you access to Doctors Lake, which feeds into the St. Johns River just a few miles from Lakeside.
1/2
Warm Florida weather with minimal flood risk
Lakeside enjoys year-round warm weather, like most of the state. It is considered at minor risk of flooding, with about 13% of properties in the area at risk of flooding over the next 30 years, according to the climate modeling website First Street. “For the most part, if you don’t live on the water, it’s not going to flood,” Saunders says.
Lakeside residents enjoying a waterfront lunch on Doctors Lake.
Its the beautiful weather that has people coming to Whietys Fish Camp for outdoor dining, just a few miles from Lakeside.
1/2
More to know about Lakeside
Baptist Medical Center Clay and Ascension St. Vincent's Clay County are two hospitals that serve the area. Both have more than 100 beds.
The nearest airport is Jacksonville International, about 30 miles north.
According to data from the Florida Department of Health, Clay County's violent crime rate in 2023 was 91.7 per 100,000 residents, much lower than the state rate of about 150.7 that same year.
Ascension St. Vincents is one of the newest hospitals in Clay County and can serve the residents of Lakeside.
The police in Lakeside strive to keep the citizens safe.
1/2
Written By
Nour Habib
Photography Contributed By
Lori Smith
Video By
Colleen Carey
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Schenita Little,
an experienced agent in this area.
Experience the best of outdoor living with this beautiful 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom pool home located in the well-established neighborhood of Lakeside Estates. This home features very spacious bedrooms, large family room with fireplace, separate dining area and updated kitchen with granite counters and smart appliances. Step outside to an oversized screened patio leading to an inground sparking
Welcome to your waterfront retreat on Doctor's Lake! This 5BR/2BA concrete block home offers 2,149 sq. ft. of living space on a rare double lot with stunning water views. The remodeled kitchen and baths feature granite countertops, new gray cabinetry, and modern tile/vinyl flooring. Updates include a new roof, HVAC and water heater (under 5 years old), ensuring peace of mind for years to come.
Orange Park pool home that has been lovingly maintained and updated - only two owners since 1978! Lawrence Road is tucked away off of Doctors Lake Drive and dead ends into Doctors Lake. The optional HOA fee allows access to the private community dock (rebuilt in 2017) $150 per year for dock access, $250 per year for small boat launch access). The interior of the home marries traditional charm
Custom built 3BR 2.5BA 2520SF with 600 sf oversized garage (24 x 29), 462 SF Florida room on a natural spring fed creek. Yard is a natural butterfly garden. Home is located in desirable Lakeside Estates. stained cypress siding Private rear yard, covered 12 x 14 patio. large open patio space, storage shedRainguard gutters, termite bond.Public records square footage is incorrect
Major updates already done: Roof (Feb 2024), A/C and water heater (2025), new insulation, and generator wiring in place. The sunroom was finished out with glass windows and tied into the house a/c. This Foxridge home—with voluntary HOA—offers an open layout with granite kitchen countertops, stainless steel appliances, updated bathrooms, and no carpet throughout. A cozy wood-burning fireplace
Welcome to this inviting two-bedroom, 1.5-bath condo that blends comfort and convenience. The open-concept living and dining area offers plenty of natural light and a warm, welcoming vibe. The kitchen features ample cabinet space—perfect for everyday meals or weekend entertaining.Upstairs, you'll find two generous bedrooms with roomy closets and a shared full bath, while the main level
Welcome to Flats at Maverick Trails. Flats are one and two bedroom apartment homes featuring their own private direct entries. All the apartment homes feature modern amenities and finishes within close proximity to Orange Park Mall, Oakleaf Town Center, and much more! Enjoy the clubhouse, fitness center, swimming pool and outdoor cabana area. Contact us today to schedule an appointment to view
3 BEDROOM 2 BATH, MASTER SHOWER HAS BEEN REBUILT. NEW FLOORING IN BOTH BATHROOMS. NEWER CARPETING IN ALL BEDROOMS ALONG WITH NEW BLINDS. NEW COUNTERS IN KITCHEN. NEW ROOF AND NEW AC. EXTERIOR HAS BEEN PAINTED ALSO. NO SMOKING ALLOWED INCLUDING IN THE GARAGE. $35.00 PER PET PER MONTH PET RENT. ALONG WITH $350.00 REFUNDABLE PET DEPOSIT IF PET IS APPROVED BY OWNER
In-Person Tours AvailableWe are now welcoming in-person, virtual and self-guided tours by appointment only. Please contact us today to schedule your appointment.Nestled just south of Jacksonville, Orange Park offers a mix of small-town charm dotted with verdant parks, shopping, and golf! Residents enjoy the convenience of Interstate 295 to local destinations, including the beaches to the
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.
