Gainesville, the home of the University of Florida, is a lively and historic city with much to offer. Located in Alachua County in the center of the “Sunshine State,” the town has many amenities and is well-suited for adults, which makes it a great place for active seniors to retire. In fact, it has a reputation for being inexpensive, has a great public transportation service with RTS (http://go-rts.com/) and has a lively college atmosphere. Gainesville also has an impressive medical community including Shands (https://ufhealth.org/) and the VA Medical Center.
Gainesville’s downtown area is dotted with restaurants, theaters, parks and shops, making the city perfect for an entertaining outing. Sports enthusiasts will find “Gator Nation” fever in full swing during the autumn. For cultural richness, there’s the Hippodrome State Theatre (http://thehipp.org/) and Florida Museum of Natural History (https://www.flmnh.ufl.edu/).
If you enjoy nature and trekking, visit Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park where you’ll encounter alligators, birds and bison. Gainesville also has easy access to beaches, or you can explore nearby Morningside Nature Center (http://www.visitgainesville.com/attractions/morningside-nature-center/), The Devil’s Millhopper, and Kanapaha Botanical Gardens (http://kanapaha.org/). For history lovers, tour Gainesville’s Northeast Historic District, also known as the “Duck Pond,” where you can admire old oaks and architectural styles dating back to the 1880s. Be sure to also check out this great list (http://homemagazinegainesville.com/top-100-things-alachua-county/) featuring 100 things to do in the area.
As for the economy, property taxes are higher than average to offset the cost of the university, which sits on tax-exempt land. On the other hand, average home costs are slightly below the national average, and Floridians throughout the state do not pay a state income tax. For employment, Gainesville boasts large companies such as Nationwide, Enterprise, and Tower Hill Insurance Group.
Gainesville’s climate is humid subtropical, and because of its inland location, the city experiences temperature fluctuations. During the summer, temperatures range from the low-70s to the lower-90s. Average winter temperatures can drop below 30-degrees Fahrenheit and reach the lower-60s. The city also has autumn sites in November due to its maple, dogwood and hickory trees. In the spring, redbuds and azalea blossom. The weather also is pleasant in the spring, with temperatures complemented by low humidity and little precipitation.
Gainesville has plenty of Southern charm and character, and offers a great mix of warm, active and affordable living. Keep an eye out for LandCentral properties in the Sunshine State.