Leah Jones

Jacksonville's Head Start to Homeownership program offers up to $25,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance for first time buyers purchasing in Duval County, structured as a 0% interest second mortgage.

Teachers, nurses, first responders, and other frontline workers in Jacksonville can receive up to $35,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance through this statewide program, at 0% interest with no monthly payments.

Ameris Bank offers up to $7,500 in down payment assistance for qualified first time buyers purchasing within specific areas of metro Jacksonville, a program that first launched in this market.

Jacksonville's H2H program caps household income at 80% of the area median, around $57,400 for a single person in 2026, while the City Pilot program allows up to 120% AMI for buyers who need more room.

Most Jacksonville down payment assistance programs, including H2H and Hometown Heroes, require an approved homebuyer education course before closing, typically a short online class costing around $30.

FHA loans remain one of the most common paths into homeownership for first time buyers in Duval County, generally requiring lower down payments than conventional financing.

St. Johns County School District reclaimed the top ranking in Florida for the 2025-26 school year, earning an A grade after briefly losing the title to Nassau County, following 14 consecutive years at number one before that.

St. Johns County schools carry an average ranking of 10 out of 10, placing them in the top 5% of Florida public schools, with math and reading proficiency scores well above the state average.

St. Johns County School District posts a 97.1% graduation rate, the third highest in Florida, alongside above average AP, ACT, and SAT performance across the district.

Ponte Vedra High School is consistently ranked among Florida's top high schools, serving families in the Ponte Vedra Beach area within St. Johns County.

Creekside High School in northwest St. Johns County regularly ranks among the state's top performing high schools, serving families throughout the growing St. Johns and Fruit Cove area.

Allen D. Nease High School is another top performer in St. Johns County, frequently compared alongside Ponte Vedra High as families weigh school zoning when choosing a neighborhood.

Make socializing a sport at one of our premier entertainment venues featuring fun golf games for all skill levels, full-service bar and restaurant, all-weather hitting bays and private event spaces.

PopStroke is the go-to spot for family-friendly mini golf, delicious dining, and unforgettable events. Tee off on two exciting 18-hole mini golf courses, perfect for players of all ages and skill levels. After your round, enjoy the best burgers, craft cocktails, and premium ice cream around. Kids will love the playground and outdoor games, making it ideal for birthday parties, kids parties, or celebrations of any kind. Whether it's a casual outing or a special event, PopStroke promises fun, food, and memories for everyone.

Batt Family Fun Center is your home for family FUN and family entertainment in Jacksonville, FL! Enjoy great times with family and friends at affordable prices, including a FREE $10 Open Bowling Certificate.

With over 2,000 animal species and 1,000 rare plants, there's something for everyone to explore at Northeast Florida's premier zoo and botanical garden.

Discover Jacksonville’s Museum of Science & History, a state-of-the-art destination for immersive learning, community engagement, and green space at the St. John's River.

Explore the vibrant heart of Jacksonville on this guided city tour. Discover local landmarks, history, and culture while enjoying the sights and sounds of downtown.