Ponte Vedra Beach vs. St. Augustine
Same county, very different feel.
Both are in St. Johns County and share its school district, but Ponte Vedra Beach is a polished golf and oceanfront community near Jacksonville, while St. Augustine is a historic small city with its own beaches farther south.
Updated November 2026
Side by side
| Ponte Vedra Beach | St. Augustine | |
|---|---|---|
| Character | Golf, private clubs, oceanfront estates | Historic city, beach town, new master plans |
| Drive to downtown Jacksonville | About 30 to 40 minutes | About 45 to 60 minutes |
| Property tax rate (2026) | 13.4559 mills (unincorporated) | 19.541 mills (city); 16.011 (St. Augustine Beach); 13.4559 (unincorporated) |
| County median sale price | $568,750 (St. Johns County, Sept. 2026) | $568,750 (St. Johns County, Sept. 2026) |
| New construction | Nocatee, Marsh Harbor, Haven at Palm Valley | SilverLeaf, Shearwater, Iron Branch, Estuary at Madeira |
| Schools | St. Johns County School District | St. Johns County School District |
Tax rates are before exemptions and any CDD. Commute times vary with traffic.
Choose Ponte Vedra Beach if
- You work in Jacksonville or travel often from JAX
- Golf and club life matter to you
- You want an established luxury address
Choose St. Augustine if
- You want history, character and a walkable downtown
- You'd like more home for the price in newer communities
- A longer drive to Jacksonville works for you
Talk with Carrie
Questions about Ponte Vedra Beach vs. St. Augustine? Tell us what you're looking for and we'll follow up personally.
Frequently asked questions
Are Ponte Vedra Beach and St. Augustine in the same county?
Yes. Both are in St. Johns County and use the St. Johns County School District.
Which has lower property taxes?
Unincorporated areas, including Ponte Vedra Beach, have the lowest 2026 rate at 13.4559 mills. Inside the City of St. Augustine it is 19.541 mills. Many new communities also add a CDD.
How far apart are they?
About 25 to 30 miles along A1A or U.S. 1, roughly 35 to 45 minutes by car.
Keep exploring
Sources
Information is for general guidance as of November 2026 and can change. Confirm prices, taxes, school assignments, HOA and CDD fees, and flood zones for a specific address before you buy.