Whether you are looking for a historic neighborhood with big trees or a quiet suburb with great schools, Alachua has a perfect spot for your family. Here are the five safest and most popular neighborhoods for families in and around Gainesville.
This list is compiled from local research and my personal observations and preferences.
The schools listed do not include private schools. Confirm which public schools your future address is zoned for here.
Duck Pond
Location: Northeast Gainesville, near downtown
Crime Rating: A- (doorprofit.com)
Schools: W.A. Metcalfe Elementary (2/10 GreatSchools rating), Howard W. Bishop Middle (5/10 GreatSchools rating), Westwood Middle (3/10 GreatSchools rating), Gainesville High (6/10 GreatSchools rating) and Eastside High (5/10 GreatSchools rating)
Features: Duck Pond is one of Gainesville’s most charming historic neighborhoods. The streets are lined with craftsman homes, and the actual duck pond — a small lake in the neighborhood — gives kids a reason to play outside every single day. It’s walkable to downtown and has a mix of character and community. Despite its proximity to the University of Florida and downtown, it is surprisingly quiet at night, and many dog walkers can be spotted throughout the day.
Haile Plantation
Location: Southwest Gainesville, near Archer Road
Crime Rating: A+ (doorprofit.com)
Schools: Kimball Wiles Elementary (6/10 GreatSchools rating), Lawton M. Chiles Elementary (5/10 GreatSchools rating), Kanapaha Middle (7/10 GreatSchools rating) and Buchholz High (6/10 GreatSchools rating)
Features: Haile feels like a true quiet, family neighborhood. Wide sidewalks, tree-lined streets and community events make it easy to settle in. The Haile Farmers Market runs every Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to noon, so fresh produce and a morning outing provide a routine activity for the whole family. There is also a town square with local restaurants and shops within walking distance, which is a plus for families who want convenience without busy strip malls.
Hazel Heights
Location: Northwest Gainesville, near Hogtown Creek Headwaters Nature Park
Crime Rating: A (doorprofit.com)
Schools: C. W. Norton Elementary (5/10 GreatSchools rating), Westwood Middle (3/10 GreatSchools rating) and Gainesville High (6/10 GreatSchools rating)
Features: Hazel Heights is a cozy neighborhood that is ideal for young families and first-time homebuyers. The town features classic and mid-century one-story homes with large yards. Hazel is also just minutes away from the playground and trails at Greentree Park and Hogtown Creek Headwaters Nature Park.
Suburban Heights
Location: Northwest Gainesville, near Oaks Mall
Crime Rating: A (crimegrade.org)
Schools: Littlewood Elementary (7/10 GreatSchools rating), Fort Clarke Middle (7/10 GreatSchools rating), and F.W. Buchholz High (6/10 GreatSchools rating)
Features: Suburban Heights is a quiet neighborhood with nearly 7,000 residents and is known for its safety. The area is filled with classic mid-century homes, large yards and plenty of nature. Residents can enjoy a peaceful neighborhood while also being only a short drive from Oaks Mall, grocery stores, playgrounds and family activities.
Town of Tioga
Location: Northwest Gainesville, off Newberry Road
Crime Rating: A+ (crimegrade.org)
Schools: Meadowbrook Elementary (8/10 GreatSchools rating), Kanapaha Middle (7/10 GreatSchools rating) and Buchholz High (6/10 GreatSchools rating)
Features: The Town of Tioga has a small-town feel with tree-lined sidewalks, a coffee shop, a shopping center and a green space with various community events. The neighborhood was designed for people to appreciate and experience the outdoors, which makes it great for kids who want to play outside. There is also a playground and a pedestrian bridge over an adorable turtle pond. If you’re looking for something a little quieter but still close to everything, Tioga checks a lot of boxes.
Jonesville is also a popular spot in Tioga. The area is close to Publix and Target and is home to the Oakmont housing community, which offers newer homes and a community pool.
