Top 10 Pros and Cons of Living in Ponte Vedra, FL

Ponte Vedra, Jacksonville’s southern neighbor, has the kind of prestige that draws visitors from all over the world, despite Jacksonville being the largest city in the contiguous United States in terms of land area. Ponte Vedra is the epitome of luxury and comfort, with its glistening shoreline and soft sand. It’s a great place for people who enjoy the outdoors, especially golfers and those who want a more relaxed pace of life than that offered by nearby Jacksonville. 

Here are ten pros and cons of living in Ponte Vedra, FL!

Pros of Living in Ponte Vedra

1. It is located close to other cities

Ponte Vedra is in the highly sought-after region of northeast Florida in St. Johns County, right on the Atlantic coast, and Jacksonville is only 30 minutes away (22.5 miles), so you can easily take a trip to the city if you’re in the mood for some big city fun. Jacksonville provides more amenities such as higher institutions, airports, and a thriving nightlife.

Additionally, St. Augustine is 45 minutes away, Daytona Beach is a 1 1⁄2 hour’s drive from Ponte Vedra, and even Orlando is only 2 hours away. 

2. The St. Johns County School District is one of the best in the state

Students living in Ponte Vedra and attending public schools are a part of the St. Johns County School District, often considered to be among the best in the state of Florida. K-8 public schools serve pupils in portions of Ponte Vedra, such as the growing neighborhood of Nocatee. Students in the Ponte Vedra public school system can choose between Ponte Vedra High School and Allen D. Nease Senior High School. 

In addition, Ponte Vedra, as well as the rest of the Jacksonville metro area, is home to a number of excellent private schools.

3. Lots of golf courses available

There’s bound to be a nearby golf course that suits your needs, whether you’re a devotee or a beginner. The Stadium Course at TPC, the East or West Course at Sawgrass Country Club, and the Lagoon and Ocean Courses at Ponte Vedra Inn & Club are just a few of the several private membership golf courses near Ponte Vedra. 

There are membership options available for both serious and recreational golfers at these facilities. The Yards at TPC also welcomes both members and non-members for public play.

4. Cool off at Ponte Vedra Beach or Jacksonville Beach

Ponte Vedra Beach’s proximity to the beach is one of the best features of the area and a major draw for many visitors. Not surprisingly, Ponte Vedra Beach was chosen as one of CNN’s 22 “Can’t Miss” beaches. 

Ponte Vedra is a coastal town, hence the beach is the main attraction. Ponte Vedra Beach, Jacksonville Beach, and Atlantic Beach are just a few of the many beaches in the region. 

Some common activities enjoyed by locals include sunbathing, swimming, fishing, boating, and paddleboarding.

5. Enjoy warm weather all year

Used to the long, cold winters that leave you with cabin fever month after month? Once you settle in Ponte Vedra, you won’t have to worry about it anymore. Typically, highs are around 80 degrees Fahrenheit, while lows are around 64.

The brief, moderate winters, along with the rest of the year’s lovely warmth, make it possible to spend as much time as you wish outside. Ponte Vedra is blessed with abundant natural beauty that can be appreciated year-round.

6. There are numerous luxurious communities

Many Ponte Vedra residents choose to live in gated communities due to the high population and high demand for real estate in the area.

People like living in gated communities because they provide a sense of security while also offering a variety of desirable facilities. Walking paths, a clubhouse, a golf course, and even a fitness facility may be part of the amenities package.

Furthermore, these gated communities are often manicured with gorgeous trees and grass that is properly maintained. They provide an additional safety net and social environment beyond that of a standard house. Some of them include The Colony, The Palms, The Plantation, Sawmill Lakes, and lots more.

Cons of Living in Ponte Vedra

1. A high property crime rate

Ponte Vedra has a lower crime rate than the rest of the country, with 20.4 violent crimes, compared to 22.7 nationwide. However, while the national average rate of property crime is 35.4, the property crime rate in Ponte Vedra is 40.3. 

This means that you should be on the lookout at all times, and take appropriate measures to keep your belongings safe.

2. The cost of living is higher than the national average

Living in a luxurious beach town doesn’t come cheap. At an index of 128, living in Ponte Vedra costs 28% higher than the national average. Groceries, transportation, and utilities are all higher than the national average.

The median home price in the city is $783,381, almost double the national average. Ponte Vedra’s average annual salary is $60,677.

3. The city’s humidity is quite high

Ponte Vedra, being on the seaside, experiences warm humid summers. Humid air envelops the city as the sun beams brightly above, giving it a tropical feel. 

However, humidity can be a problem in this city at this time of year, making the already warm weather feel much hotter. Some people could feel energized by the humidity, while others would rather be somewhere cool and dry. A lot of people take to the beaches when the weather gets too hot.

4. There are a lot of insects and bugs around

Ponte Vedra’s warm and humid weather is an ideal breeding ground for insects like mosquitoes, ants, and cockroaches. 

Although measures are taken to manage and eradicate these pests, people may still see them on a regular basis throughout the warmer months. Insects are a pain, and dealing with them often requires taking extra steps to ensure your comfort, such as using insect repellents, closing and locking doors and windows, and otherwise limiting their access to the inside of your home. 

Conclusion

Ponte Vedra offers a luxurious lifestyle, with access to beaches, great schools, and lots of sunshine. If you’re looking to live in an affluent community, this town is just perfect. However, the city also has a high cost of living, high property crime rate, and lots of humidity.