St. Johns vs. Duval
The county decision most buyers face.
Most people moving to the Jacksonville area end up choosing between Duval County, which is mostly the City of Jacksonville, and St. Johns County to the south. Here is how they compare on the numbers.
Updated November 2026
Side by side
| St. Johns County | Duval County | |
|---|---|---|
| Median sale price (Sept. 2026) | $568,750 | $345,000 |
| Median days on market | 42 | 29 |
| Months of supply | 3.7 | 3.8 |
| Closed sales (Sept. 2026) | 390 | 830 |
| Typical tax rate | 13.4559 mills (unincorporated, 2026) | 17.7412 mills (Jacksonville, 2025) |
| CDDs | Common in newer communities | Less common |
| New construction | Nocatee, SilverLeaf, RiverTown, Shearwater and more | Seven Pines, EverRange, RiversEdge and more |
Market figures are NEFAR single-family data for September 2026. Tax rates are before exemptions and CDDs.
Choose St. Johns County if
- You want newer master-planned communities
- A lower base tax rate matters to you (watch for CDDs)
- You're fine with a longer commute into Jacksonville
Choose Duval County if
- You want a lower median price or a shorter commute
- You like established neighborhoods like San Marco, Riverside, Ortega or the Beaches
- You want city amenities close by
Schools
Both counties have highly rated schools, and assignments depend on the exact address. Compare state grades on our school guides before you choose a neighborhood.
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Frequently asked questions
Is St. Johns County more expensive than Duval?
Yes. In September 2026 the median single-family sale price was $568,750 in St. Johns County and $345,000 in Duval, according to NEFAR.
Are property taxes lower in St. Johns County?
The base rate is lower: 13.4559 mills in unincorporated St. Johns (2026) versus 17.7412 in Jacksonville (2025). Many St. Johns communities add a CDD, so compare the full bill.
Which county has more new construction?
St. Johns County has more large master-planned communities, but Duval has newer options too, including Seven Pines and EverRange.
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.