What are the best small cities to live in Florida?

With so many people moving to Florida every year, a lot goes into the consideration of where to set down roots. Sure, the tropical ambiance, beach access, and overall beauty give a lot to think about, but for those who have families, there is more to it. Every year, Niche releases its “best of” list of which cities, towns, and neighborhoods are best to raise a family. To determine these rankings, Niche uses statistics based on things such as public schools, crime rates, access to libraries, cost of living, family-friendly amenities, and so forth. Of course, there are lots of intangible factors that go into what makes a town livable, but these seem to be consistent qualifiers. Without further ado, here’s a list of the best small towns in Florida to raise a family. See if your favorite town made the list!

1. Nocatee, Florida

Facebook Nocatee Homes

First up on our list of the best small towns in Florida to raise a family is Nocatee. Located in St. Johns County, with a population of under 20,000, Nocatee, Florida ranks as the best town to raise a family. Because this master-planned community combines things such as a variety of neighborhoods, with recreation, parks, and restaurants, it makes for a safe and fun place to live for families.

Nocatee, FL 32081, USA

Also located up in Jacksonville in St. Johns County is the second-ranked town on this list, Palm Valley. With a population of just over 20,000 residents, Palm Valley is ranked A+ for families, due to the great public schools and suburban feel.

Palm Valley, FL 32082, USA

Fish Hawk Ranch

As a Tampa suburb, FishHawk Ranch, Florida, comes in third for the best towns to live in. FishHawk received an overall Niche Grade of A+ due to the public school system, housing costs, and diversity. There are lots of parks within this town, plus a less transient community as 83% of residents own their own homes.

Fishhawk Ranch, Lithia, FL 33547, USA

Google NiDHiN RaJ

Another Jacksonville suburb makes the list, Fruit Cove, Florida, which comes in fourth. Surrounded by beautiful natural attractions, many enjoy Fruit Cove because of the great schools and safe neighborhoods. With around 30,000 residents, this town is a bit bigger compared to others on the list, but that size only helps bolster its ranking.

Fruit Cove, FL 32259, USA

Google Maps

Residents rave about Fleming Island, as it’s the perfect town for anyone who enjoys quiet, comfortable living. Just 21 miles southwest of Jacksonville, this sparse suburban town offers safety, great park systems, restaurants, and just 25 miles from the beach. While you're there, be sure to check out this incredible seafood restaurant in Florida. It's a real hidden gem!

Fleming Island, FL 32003, USA

Facebook City of Oviedo - City Administration

This Orlando town comes in at sixth on the list for a few reasons - the growing high schools, highly-ranked teachers, and a more rural, diverse feel. Many families and young professionals choose to live in Oviedo, due to the low crime and the growing amount of attractions. Also, this small town in Florida has a bit of folklore surrounding it known as the Oviedo Lights. Learn more about it when you read this previous article discussing the legend of the Oviedo Lights in Florida.

Oviedo, FL, USA

Flickr Tracy Solomon

Another Tampa suburb makes the list with the town of Westchase, Florida. Located in the northwest corner of Hillsborough County, Westchase is great for commuters as well as anyone looking to be close to the fun. Dubbed one of Tampa Bay’s best neighborhoods, the public schools are highly rated and many families live here.

Westchase, FL 33626, USA

Google Maps

With a population of around 25,000 residents, Keystone, Florida comes in at number eight on the list of best towns for families to live. With a rural feel, Keystone offers quite a few attractions throughout plus great parks and school systems. This neighborhood offers stability in terms of neighbors, with 95% of residents owning their homes. While you're there, be sure to check out this one-of-a-kind campground in Florida.

Keystone, FL, USA

Facebook Heathrow, Florida

Located on the I-4 Corridor just 19 miles northeast of Orlando is the small town of Heathrow, Florida. Ranked ninth as one of the best places to live in Florida, especially with families, Heathrow remains relatively quiet, with a dense suburban feel. Many residents own their homes and most are retirees!

Heathrow, FL 32746, USA

Facebook Village of Palmetto Bay

While Palmetto Bay, Florida comes in as #10 on this list, it actually comes in first as the best place to raise a family within the Miami area! There are loads of parks and green space within Palmetto Bay, plus the school system ranks high as well. Residents can enjoy a suburban feel evening within Miami-Dade county, plus a small-town vibe with around 25,000 residents. If you're looking to explore the area, you could check out this unique houseboat rental in Florida.

Palmetto Bay, FL, USA

So, what do you think about this list of the best small towns in Florida to raise a family? Were there any surprise rankings? Feel free to share your thoughts with us — we would love to hear from you! For related content, check out our list of the most underrated small towns in Florida.

Address: Nocatee, FL 32081, USA

Address: Palm Valley, FL 32082, USA

Address: Fishhawk Ranch, Lithia, FL 33547, USA

Address: Fruit Cove, FL 32259, USA

Address: Fleming Island, FL 32003, USA

Address: Oviedo, FL, USA

Address: Westchase, FL 33626, USA

Address: Keystone, FL, USA

Address: Heathrow, FL 32746, USA

Address: Palmetto Bay, FL, USA

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best small towns in florida to raise a family

November 14, 2022

Beth C.

What are the most kid-friendly destinations in Florida?

Florida is a great place to travel with kids. The most kid-friendly destinations in Florida include:

• Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
• Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park
• Fudpucker’s Beachside Bar & Grill
• WonderWorks in Panama City Beach
• Pink Pelican Ice Cream Bar
• Shores of Panama
• Cape San Blas

Learn more about these destinations, when you check out the full itinerary for our road trip to the most family-friendly places in Florida.

What’s an under-the-radar family attraction in Florida?

SunWest Park in Pasco County is an underrated family attraction in Florida. You’ve likely heard of Disney World and Universal Studios, SunWest Park is decidedly lesser-known. This 70-acre spring-fed lake boasts a white sandy beach and plenty of room to splash around. There’s even a splash park on the water, known as the Lift Adventure Park. This is one outdoor water playground in Florida you’ll want to visit at least once!

Are there any kid-friendly hikes in Florida?

There are lots of kid-friendly hikes in Florida! Some of the best ones to enjoy with your family include:

• Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, Naples
• Big Cypress Bend, Fakahatchee Preserve State Park
• Timucuan Trail, Alexander Springs, Ocala National Forest
• Caladesi Island Trail, Dunedin
• Garden of Eden Trail, Apalachicola Bluffs and Ravines Preserve, Bristol
• Anhinga Trail, Everglades National Park
• Falling Waters Sinkhole Trail, Chipley
• Ravine Gardens State Park, Palatka

For more information about each of these trails, check out our complete list of the best hikes in Florida under 5 miles.

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