What to know when moving to Saint Augustine, FL
TL;DR: Saint Augustine at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 34.7% of residents are renters and the median household income is $72,965.
- The Major Draw:
- With a median gross rent of $1,534, it's a relatively affordable spot compared to many coastal areas.
- The Reality Check:
- About 15.5% of residents live below the poverty line, indicating some economic challenges.
- Commute:
- Only 0.2% of residents use public transit, making it a car-dependent area.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for $1,534 in monthly rent, and prepare for 101 rainy days a year.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Saint Augustine features a population of approximately 36,998, with a solid portion of the community holding at least a bachelor's degree-32.2% to be precise. The area has a notable rental market, with a renter percentage of 34.7%, indicating a mix of both homeowners and renters. Residents can expect a warm climate, but with significant rainfall, averaging 58.4 inches annually.
Probably not your spot if you prefer public transportation, as the transit use is extremely low.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $1,534, which is competitive for a coastal area.
- Median owner-occupied home value stands at $295,000, suggesting a solid investment for buyers.
- Education is significant here, with 32.2% of residents holding a bachelor's degree or higher.
- The poverty rate is 15.5%, which may indicate economic disparities in the community.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Schools & Higher Ed
Saint Augustine has access to a couple of notable educational institutions:
- First Coast Technical College
- Flagler College
Source: NCES Postsecondary School Locations, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Saint Augustine experiences about 58.4 inches of rainfall annually, with 101 rainy days each year. This means it's wise to keep an umbrella handy. For outdoor activities, there are several spots to explore:
- Anastasia State Park - 4.8 stars (7,046 reviews)
- Castillo de San Marcos National Monument - 4.7 stars (37,536 reviews)
- St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum - 4.7 stars (15,238 reviews)
- Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park - 4.5 stars (8,399 reviews)
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
In St. Johns County, where Saint Augustine is located, the unemployment rate is 4.5% as of December 2025. There are 149,899 employed individuals in the area, contributing to a labor force of 157,028.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.