9 Things to Know About the First Coast Expressway, Nocatee Hub & Clay County Growth in 2026



Northeast Florida just crossed two big milestones. The First Coast Expressway is finally complete through Clay County, and Nocatee just announced a brand-new outdoor retail hub. Both are about to change where people choose to live, and both matter if you're thinking about buying in 2026.

As a local relocation and new construction specialist, here's what you need to know before you decide where to buy.

1. The First Coast Expressway Is Now Fully Open in Clay County

On June 29, 2026, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) opened the final Clay County segment of the First Coast Expressway (SR 23). The new stretch runs from US 17, just south of…

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Is the Pablo II by ICI Homes Worth It? A Buyer's Agent Tours EverRange's Newest Floor Plan



If you're comparing semi-custom builders in South Jacksonville, the Pablo II floor plan by ICI Homes is one you'll want to see in person before you decide. It's currently being built in Mariposa, the newest neighborhood at EverRange — and after touring it myself, I want to walk you through what it offers, what "semi-custom" actually means when ICI Homes says it, and the questions I hear most often from buyers looking at this plan.

I'm Greg DeTullio, a new construction buyer's agent based in St. Johns County who works throughout the greater Jacksonville area. Touring builder floor plans as they're released is part of how I stay ahead for my clients — not just…

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By Greg Detullio | St. Johns County & Jacksonville Area Real Estate

If you've been researching new construction homes in St. Johns County, you've probably come across Silverleaf — one of the most talked-about master-planned communities in the greater Jacksonville area. And within Silverleaf, there's a neighborhood that keeps coming up in conversations with my clients: Courtney Chase.

But here's the thing — Courtney Chase often gets confused with Courtney Oaks, Courtney Grove, and Hidden Creek. They all share the same zip code, the same gated Johns Island section of Silverleaf, and — in some cases — even the same builder. So before you start touring model homes, let me break down exactly what makes Courtney Chase its own distinct community, who…

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Jacksonville, Florida, doesn’t always get credit as a foodie city—but if you know where to look, the dining scene is far better than people expect.

As self-proclaimed food lovers, my wife and I have spent years exploring restaurants across Jacksonville, Ponte Vedra, Nocatee, and St. Johns County. None of these places are sponsored. These are simply the spots we keep going back to.

If you’re living here—or thinking about moving to Jacksonville—this list will help you eat very well.

Our Top 5 Jacksonville Date Night Restaurants

These are our go-to spots when we want a great meal, strong atmosphere, and consistently excellent service.

1. Restaurant Orsay

Avondale – Jacksonville

[Image: Restaurant Orsay exterior or interior]

…

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Four years ago, my wife Monica and I made one of the biggest decisions of our lives: we moved from South Florida to Northeast Florida, settling in St. Johns County just outside Jacksonville.

We get asked all the time:
“Why would you leave South Florida?”
“Was it worth it?”
“Would you ever move back?”

So we wanted to share our story—both from the perspective of a real estate professional and a working mom raising a family—to help other families considering the same move.

Why Jacksonville Wasn’t Even on Our Radar (At First)

Jacksonville wasn’t originally part of our plan.

What changed? Family.

Monica’s parents relocated to Amelia Island, a small beach town about an hour north of Jacksonville. As we visited them more often, we kept…

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Nocatee, Florida, continues to rank among the top master-planned communities in the U.S. With resort-style amenities, top schools, and a golf-cart lifestyle, it’s easy to see why so many families and professionals are relocating here.

But before you make the move in 2025, there are a few things you really need to understand—from how the community is governed to what living here actually feels like day-to-day.

As a local resident and relocation expert, here are the 10 most important things to know about Nocatee before you buy.

1. Location Matters More Than You Think

Nocatee is located in Ponte Vedra (ZIP 32081)—not to be confused with Ponte Vedra Beach (ZIP 32082), which sits across the Intracoastal Waterway.

That difference affects:

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Nocatee, Florida, is consistently ranked as one of the best master-planned communities in the country. Located in beautiful Ponte Vedra, it offers everything from resort-style amenities to top schools and a golf-cart lifestyle.

But with 50+ neighborhoods inside Nocatee, many buyers ask:
“If budget weren’t a factor, where would I want to live?”

Let’s answer that question.

Here’s a ranked list of the top five Nocatee neighborhoods—based purely on exclusivity, location, and lifestyle—starting at #5 and working up to the most prestigious address in the community.

#5 Coastal Oaks – Gated Luxury with Private Amenities

Coastal Oaks is one of Nocatee’s most established luxury communities, built by Toll Brothers and known for its beautiful…

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If you’re planning a move to the Jacksonville area and want to be in St. Johns County—home to one of the best public school systems in Florida—Shearwater is a community you need to see.

This master-planned neighborhood blends active outdoor living, beautiful scenery, and resort-style amenities, making it especially popular with families, professionals, and anyone who loves being close to nature without giving up modern convenience.

Let’s take a closer look at what makes Shearwater one of Northeast Florida’s most desirable places to live.

Where Is Shearwater Located?

Shearwater sits in northwest St. Johns County, just off the 210 Corridor, which is currently being expanded to improve traffic flow.

It’s located:

  • West of Nocatee

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If you’re relocating to Northeast Florida, chances are you’ve narrowed your search to St. Johns County—and for good reason. This area is known for top-rated schools, beautiful master-planned communities, and an unbeatable quality of life.

Two of the most talked-about neighborhoods are Nocatee and RiverTown. Both are exceptional—but they offer very different lifestyles.

So which one is right for you?

Let’s break it down.

Location: Beach Vibes vs. Country Calm

The biggest difference between these two communities is where they sit.

Nocatee

  • Located along the Intracoastal Waterway

  • About 5–8 miles from the beach

  • Feels more coastal and energetic

  • Highly developed with commercial hubs

RiverTown

    …

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If you’re planning a move to Jacksonville, Florida, and love the idea of living near the water, RiverTown should be at the top of your list. This highly sought-after master-planned community in St. Johns County offers a rare blend of riverfront beauty, resort-style amenities, and modern living—making it one of the most desirable places to live in Northeast Florida.

From families to active adults, RiverTown attracts buyers who want more than just a house—they want a lifestyle.

Let’s explore what makes RiverTown so special.

Where Is RiverTown Located?

RiverTown is perfectly positioned in northern St. Johns County, located:

  • Just south of Julington Creek

  • Just north of the St. Augustine border

  • Along the scenic St.…

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