The city of Palatka, Florida, sits in the north-central part of the state, just off a bend in the St. Johns River. The Putnam County seat has experienced some hardship over the past several years, with retailers moving out and one of the city’s largest employers, the Georgia-Pacific paper mill, cutting jobs.
But despite its struggles, the city is the picture of Old Florida. Sailboats dot the glittering river at sunrise. Live oaks draped with Spanish moss tower over homes. It has a southern charm not often found in other parts of Florida, says Tina Arant, a Broker Associate Realtor for Florida Homes Realty & Mortgage, who has lived in Palatka since 2003. “I grew up in Birmingham and lived in Jacksonville before I moved here. When I got here, I felt like I was home again,” she says.
Palatka is a quiet small town with a deep history in northeast Florida.
The Palatka Art League hosts art local artists works to help you find that special gift.
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A mix of home styles on acre lots are available
Housing here includes 1930s bungalows, midcentury ranch-style and 1990s-era New Traditional. They sit on sprawling one-acre lots, larger than in nearby St. Augustine. Homes close to St. Johns River often feature docks and backyard water views. The median price for single-family homes is about $250,000, with prices rarely exceeding $400,000. Land is also plentiful in Palatka for those looking to build new.
Historic bungalows are spread throughout Palatka.
Many historic homes in Palatka have been updated to modern standard.
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Families choose from public or private schools
Putnam County Schools serves the city and rates a C-plus on Niche. The district offers School Choice. Several private schools are in the city, including B-rated Peniel Baptist Academy, C-rated Hillcrest Academy and River Christian Academy, which currently does not have a Niche rating. The Palatka campus of St. Johns River State College is in the heart of the city and offers a range of associate, bachelor’s and baccalaureate degrees.
Palatka Jr/Sr High School receives an overall score of B minus from Niche.
Peniel Baptist Academy offers private education to the Palatka area.
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State parks, golf, boating and the beach are all within reach
Palatka features many green spaces throughout the city, including Ravine Gardens State Park, which offers acres of trails, a playground and gardens full of azalea bushes. Golfers tee off at Palatka Golf Course next door. Proximity to the St. Johns River gives boaters ample opportunities to get out on the water, and those looking for a day at the shore drive about 30 miles to St. Augustine Beach.
Historic gardens are a chance for a quick step into nature in Palatka.
Sink some putts with friends at the Palatka Golf Course.
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Downtown Palatka offers shopping and dining
The historic downtown is near Reid Street and the St. Johns River. While it’s still being revitalized, locally owned boutiques and restaurants are growing. Big box stores, chain restaurants and services run along State Road 19, one of the city's major thoroughfares.
The Larimer Arts Center hosts the River City Players, the local community theater. Artists and crafters take classes at the Palatka Art League. “You don’t necessarily have to go to Jacksonville or Orlando for culture and the arts; we have that right here in Palatka,” Arant says.
HCA Florida Putnam Hospital sits near the city’s center. Near the hospital is the Putnam County Library and multiple houses of worship
Shop the local boutiques and antique stores in Palatka.
For authentic Mexican cuisine, head to Mariachiles in Palatka.
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Residents gather for festivals and tournaments
The Florida Azalea Festival in February is a popular annual event and one of the longest running in the state. The two-day event features live music, vendors and blooming azaleas. The Blue Crab Festival is another major annual event, taking place each Memorial Day weekend and featuring live music, food trucks and family-friendly activities. Due to its proximity to the river, the city hosts multiple popular bass fishing tournaments, including Bassmaster Elite and the Wolfson Children’s Hospital Tournament.
Watch the sunset on the St Johns River in Palatka.
Catch a play for date night in Palatka at the Larimer Arts Center.
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State roads and Amtrak gets residents where they need to go
State Roads 19 and 20 run through the city, and State Road 17 is located on the city’s north side. St. Augustine is about 30 miles away, and Gainesville is about 50 miles away. Amtrak’s Palatka stop is located on 11th Street. The Palatka Municipal Airport sits near the city’s center, a small facility owned by the city. The closest international airports are Jacksonville International Airport, about 75 miles away, and Orlando International Airport, about 120 miles away.
Head to the beach by using Interstate 20 from Palatka.
For big box shopping in Palatka travel along State Road 19.
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Palatka has had a problem with crime in the past; hurricanes are possible
Crime stats are not currently available for Palatka, though the city has suffered from high incidents of violent and property crime in the past. The Palatka Police Department currently staffs 32 police officers and nine employees.
Like many Florida cities close to the ocean, hurricanes can strike Palatka, causing damage from high winds and flooding, especially near the river.
Written By
Sara Huffman
Photography Contributed By
Jade Meadows
Video By
Kyle Garrity
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Steven Ricketts,
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 Palatka, FL sell after 69 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Palatka, FL over the last 12 months is $228,900, consistent with the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
This unique 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom home sits on over an acre in one of the area's most desirable neighborhoods, offering space and privacy while still being right in the middle of town. A welcoming wraparound porch adds charm and a great place to relax. The entire interior was remodeled in 2024 and features hardwood floors, marble tile, and plush carpet, along with all new interior doors, trim,
Tucked away at the end of a quiet neighborhood street, this spacious 4-bedroom home offers a peaceful setting with plenty of room to enjoy both indoor and outdoor living, including an amazing office featuring soaring 12-foot ceilings,ideal for working from home or a creative space. The large, fenced backyard provides privacy and space to relax or entertain, complemented by a newly added paver
NOW INCLUDES A PRIVACY FENCE, BLINDS, AND WASHER/DRYER!!! NO HOA/CDD Fee! Discover the NEW Kennedy floor plan, a 4-bedroom, 2-bath, and 2 car garage home. Features include an open floor plan, LVP flooring throughout, granite countertops, 9-foot ceilings, stainless steel appliances, soft close cabinets, sleek matte black upgraded lighting package, and upgraded master suite with shower and separate
Multi-Use Property with a Fresh New Metal Roof! Sellers just installed a brand-new metal roof 12/25 giving this versatile 2,232 sq ft concrete block building incredible value and worry-free ownership from day one! Featuring a spacious sanctuary plus full living quarters, this property is perfect for a live/work lifestyle, a one-of-a-kind residential conversion, creative studio, or continued use
Step into timeless charm with this beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home built in 1910. Nestled on a generous 0.42-acre lot in a quiet well-established neighborhood, this property offers classic character with modern comforts. You'll love the spacious layout, original architectural details, and thoughtful updates throughout. Enjoy the freedom of no HOA. giving you flexibility to
Gorgeous St. Johns Riverfront Private Estate set on 5 acres with 250 feet of pristine river frontage. This one-of-a-kind property offers exceptional privacy, functionality, and breathtaking views.Some of the many standout features include a bulkheaded shoreline, private boat ramp, and a custom dock with two large boat lifts plus a 30x30 covered platformperfect for fishing or entertaining. The
Fantastic Short Sale Opportunity! This beautifully updated concrete block home is move in ready and packed with modern upgrades. Enjoy a stylish kitchen with grey cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, and a spacious breakfast bar, plus room for a full dining table. The large family room offers plenty of space to relax or entertain. The oversized primary suite features three closets and a
Timeless charm beautifully blended with today’s modern comforts. This fully renovated 1925 bungalow features two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a thoughtfully updated layout that honors its historic roots while embracing contemporary living. Situated on an oversized .28-acre lot with no HOA, there’s ample space to park a boat or RV and enjoy the flexibility of true Florida living. Every major
Build your dream home on this exceptional canal-front lot offering the perfect blend of waterfront living and custom design opportunity. This homesite could include a proposed 1,800 sq. ft. custom residence thoughtfully designed to maximize views and embrace the waterfront lifestyle. Enjoy direct canal access ideal for boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing by the water's edge. The
This brand-new 2025 doublewide offers 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, & sits on .76 acres in a peaceful area where a Sheriff's officer lives right across the street, adding an extra sense of security. Inside, you'll love the open-concept layout connecting the living room, dining area, and kitchen, perfect for everyday living or entertaining. The home features beautiful vinyl flooring throughout,
Beautiful 1.25-acre high and dry parcel in Palatka, Florida, offering the perfect opportunity to build your dream home or place a manufactured home. This level, well-drained lot sits in a peaceful rural setting yet remains close to shopping, dining, and schools.Enjoy privacy, open space, and the freedom of country living with convenient access to major highways and downtown Palatka. The
This unique 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom home sits on over an acre in one of the area's most desirable neighborhoods, offering space and privacy while still being right in the middle of town. A welcoming wraparound porch adds charm and a great place to relax. The entire interior was remodeled in 2024 and features hardwood floors, marble tile, and plush carpet, along with all new interior doors, trim,
Beautifully Updated 10-Acre Horse Ranch – Prime Location Near the First Coast Expressway! This incredible 10-acre horse ranch combines country living with modern upgrades and unbeatable convenience. Recently updated with fresh interior and exterior paint, new flooring, brand-new septic system and drain field, new windows, a screened porch, and a durable newer metal roof, this property is truly
Natalie Canon
Keller Williams Realty Atlantic Partners St Augustine
Come see this rare property with over 400 feet of direct waterfrontage on the majestic St. Johns River. Build your dream home or family compound on this outstanding forested land. The lot is situated in a small historic enclave of homes that predate the formation of the Ocala National Forest . It is like travelling back through time as you drive through the forest to arrive at this enchanting
Welcome to Living Fully St Johns Cottages, where the vibrant spirit of cottage living meets the allure of modern convenience in the heart of Palatka, Florida. This brand-new luxury cottage community features brand-new one, two, and three-bedroom homes. Nestled amidst tranquil surroundings, this charming cottage community beckons you to discover a lifestyle like no other. Picture yourself in a
Two bedroom mobile home available for rent in April Oaks Mobile Home Community. Unit has been refreshed and ready for someone to call it home! The entire mobile home park has gone through significant positive changes, it's a welcoming, safe and family-friendly environment. Rental price includes water.
Welcome to Palatka Oaks Apartments, your new home in the heart of Palatka, FL. Our community is not just pet-friendly, but also offers flexible payment options through our partnership with FLEX, making your stay with us as convenient as possible. At Palatka Oaks Apartments, we believe in creating a comfortable and enjoyable living environment for all our residents. Come and experience the
Private living within a fenced-in renovated home. Very spacious. Great neighborhood. Paved road. Huge living room. PLENTY of off street parking. Great opportunity.
Barrington Apartments offers an ideal community in Palatka, seamlessly blending the natural beauty of Florida's countryside with modern amenities and a convenient location. The open-concept design, contemporary ceiling fans, and stylish kitchens enhance both aesthetic appeal and functionality. Our resident clubhouse and stunning swimming pool enhance the sense of community, providing
High traffic highway State Road 20, lots of sand brush trees and clay here. 3 acres on the highway zoned C-3, and 30 acres of residential can be rezoned one time. Elevation high, rolling hills,...SR 20 connecting Gainesville to Palatka and the East Coast of Florida.
Property Id: 2320691Live life your way at Holly Ridge Apartments—Palatka’s premier 55+ community. Our pet-friendly 1- and 2-bedroom homes feature ceiling fans, central heat/air, and high-speed internet. Dive into a resort-style pool, stay fit in our gym, play billiards, or join lively social events. Enjoy a clubhouse, library, BBQ/picnic area, elevators, and three laundry centers—all
This newly remodeled 3 bedroom 1 bath home offers the perfect open space for entertainment. The stylish kitchen has stainless steel appliances, new cabinets and countertops and kitchen island. The home offers a convenient stackable washer and dryer. The bath has floor to ceiling tile with nice accents. The 3 bedrooms have nice sized closets for ample storage. The shaded back yard is perfect to
Property Id: 2078732Live life your way at Holly Ridge Apartments—Palatka’s premier 55+ community. Our pet-friendly 1- and 2-bedroom homes feature ceiling fans, central heat/air, and high-speed internet. Dive into a resort-style pool, stay fit in our gym, play billiards, or join lively social events. Enjoy a clubhouse, library, BBQ/picnic area, elevators, and three laundry centers—all
Welcome to your stunning residence in the heart of historic downtown Palatka! This beautiful 2-bedroom, 2-bath loft apartment offers a unique blend of modern convenience and timeless charm.Step inside and be captivated by the classic elegance of this loft, located in a gorgeous, brick building that stands as a testament to Palatka's rich history. The open-concept living space is perfect for
3 bedroom 1 bath home, located in Palatka. First, last and security deposit required to move in. Pets are allowed with fee, and renter must make 3x income.
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