Last Updated: June 11, 2025

By Amy Howell, Owner & Lead Realtor®, O.N.E. Florida Group | Top‑Producing Northeast Florida Realtor® | Real Estate Coach | Military PCS Specialist
Recognized as one of Northeast Florida's top‑producing Realtors®, Amy Howell has spent more than five years helping families, investors, and—especially—military service‑members move with confidence along Florida’s First Coast. As the owner and lead Realtor® of the veteran‑owned O.N.E. Florida Group, she pairs concierge‑level service with cutting‑edge marketing, including personally closing 70+ homes in a single neighborhood. A military spouse and PCS relocation expert, Amy coaches other agents nationwide while serving buyers and sellers from Jacksonville and St. Johns County to Palm Coast. When she’s not negotiating contracts, you’ll find her mentoring Realtors®, leading PTA initiatives, or enjoying beach time with her four children.

Are you dreaming of a lifestyle that blends suburban comfort with sustainable living and a strong sense of community? For families relocating to Florida, especially from higher-tax states like New York or New Jersey, finding the perfect community often means balancing excellent schools, modern amenities, and a comfortable price point. Northeast Florida is answering that call with a revolutionary concept: the agrihood. And leading the way is Saratoga Springs, Clay County's newest master-planned community. This isn't just another subdivision; it's a vibrant, farm-to-table living experience designed for connection, sustainability, and unparalleled quality of life.

A New Era of Living: What is an Agrihood?

Imagine a neighborhood where fresh produce is harvested just steps from your door, where community events revolve around seasonal yields, and where green spaces are productive farms rather than just empty lots. That's the essence of an agrihood. Unlike traditional communities built around golf courses or clubhouses, agrihoods place working farms or community gardens at their core. Residents can engage directly with the agricultural operations through Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs, volunteer opportunities, and farm-to-table dining experiences. This innovative model fosters a unique connection to food, nature, and neighbors, creating an authentic and engaging lifestyle that resonates deeply with modern families prioritizing sustainability and community. Images from the community of Arden, a similar community in Florida, by the same developer of Saratoga Springs.

Meet Saratoga Springs: Clay County's Landmark Agrihood Development

Saratoga Springs is set to redefine residential living in Northeast Florida. Officially breaking ground in January 2025, this 2,240-acre master-planned community in Green Cove Springs will feature up to 4,489 homes across five distinct neighborhoods. What makes it truly special is its central focus: working farms that residents can actively participate in. These farms will produce fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, and flowers, bringing a true "farm-to-table" experience right to your doorstep. With miles of walking trails connecting the neighborhoods and integrated parks, Saratoga Springs offers a lifestyle rooted in nature and community connection.

Freehold Communities breaking ground on Saratoga Springs in Clay County

Developer Spotlight: Freehold Communities Brings Proven Expertise to NE FL

The vision behind Saratoga Springs is brought to life by Freehold Capital Management, a Boston-based developer with a proven track record in creating successful agrihood communities across the Southeast. Freehold acquired the 2,445-acre site for over $70 million in January 2025, demonstrating their significant investment in Clay County's future. Founded in 2013, Freehold specializes in integrating agriculture with residential living, boasting a portfolio of over 16,000 acres and 32,000+ housing units. Their successful developments include Arden in Wellington, Florida, which features 2,300 homes around a 5-acre working farm and serves 130+ families through its CSA program. With national builders Lennar and Ryan Homes on board, Saratoga Springs is poised for quality construction and timely development, with construction beginning in early 2026.

Prime Location: Green Cove Springs & Clay County Advantages

Location is key, and Saratoga Springs delivers. Situated in Green Cove Springs, Clay County, the community offers the perfect balance of rural charm and urban convenience. It's just 28-33 miles from Jacksonville, approximately a 40-minute drive, making it accessible to job markets and city amenities. The development is strategically positioned near the First Coast Expressway (SR-23), a major infrastructure project that will significantly improve regional connectivity upon completion.

Clay County itself is a rapidly growing market in Florida, with a population increase of 27% since 2010. It boasts Florida's third-highest median household income at $86,094 and an A+ rated school district. For families relocating from states with higher taxes, Florida's lack of state income tax is a significant draw. The area's proximity to historic St. Augustine, natural springs, state forests, and numerous lakes ensures abundant outdoor recreation opportunities, while maintaining a desirable rural character despite ongoing growth. Clay County has proactively planned for this expansion, with three new schools already incorporated into their 10-year facilities plan to serve Saratoga Springs by 2030-2032.

Beyond the Farm: Amenities for Modern Family Life

While the farms are a central feature, Saratoga Springs will offer a comprehensive array of recreational amenities designed to enhance outdoor living and foster community connection. Plans include miles of interconnected walking and biking trails, multiple parks and green spaces, and community gathering areas seamlessly integrated with the farming operations.

Based on Freehold's successful Arden community, residents can anticipate exciting amenities such as farm stands offering fresh produce, engaging educational workshops on gardening and sustainable living, and vibrant seasonal festivals and harvest celebrations. Imagine children's programming focused on agricultural education, connecting young minds to where their food comes from. The five distinct neighborhoods within Saratoga Springs will each possess their own unique character, yet all will be linked by the trail system and agricultural areas, promoting both intimacy and broad community benefits.

Why Saratoga Springs Appeals to Relocating Families

For families considering a move to Northeast Florida, Saratoga Springs presents a compelling proposition. New construction homes in Green Cove Springs currently range from the mid-$200,000s to over $400,000, offering a competitive alternative to communities in neighboring St. Johns County, while still providing access to excellent schools and amenities.

Clay County's A+ rated school district is a major draw, boasting reading and math proficiency rates above state averages. The proactive planning for three new schools specifically for the Saratoga Springs area (a high school by 2030-31 and two elementary schools by 2032) underscores the county's commitment to maintaining educational quality amidst growth. Northeast Florida's appeal extends beyond education, attracting over 14,000 new residents annually. Clay County captures a significant portion of this growth due to its blend of affordability, school quality, and an appealing lifestyle, making Saratoga Springs an ideal choice for families seeking a vibrant and sustainable community.

Sustainable Roots: Environmental Benefits of Agrihood Living

The agrihood concept is inherently beneficial for the environment, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional suburban development. By integrating working farms, Saratoga Springs helps preserve agricultural land use, provides carbon sequestration, supports biodiversity through pollinator habitats, and reduces food transportation emissions by producing locally. The development is expected to incorporate green building practices, including energy-efficient construction, sustainable materials, and smart home technology, aligning with modern environmental standards.

Water management is a key consideration, and Clay County's abundant freshwater resources from the Floridan Aquifer will support both residential and agricultural needs. The development design will need to balance growth with environmental protection, likely incorporating stormwater management systems and native plant landscaping to minimize environmental impact. The agricultural component also empowers residents to reduce their reliance on grocery stores through CSA participation and provides opportunities for composting organic waste, fostering a truly eco-conscious lifestyle. This focus on sustainability is a significant draw for environmentally aware buyers seeking to reduce their carbon footprint while enjoying the conveniences of suburban life.

Economic Impact: A Boon for Clay County's Future

Saratoga Springs is not just a residential development; it's a substantial economic driver for Clay County. The initial $70+ million land acquisition is just the beginning of what could be a $1.5-$2 billion development over its multi-year construction timeline. This significant investment will generate substantial property tax revenue, supporting vital infrastructure improvements and public services throughout the county.

The construction phase alone will create hundreds of jobs, while the completed community will provide permanent employment opportunities in community management, agricultural operations, retail, and various professional services. The development is also expected to spur additional commercial and retail growth along nearby corridors, especially with the enhanced regional connectivity provided by the First Coast Expressway. This project signifies strong confidence in Northeast Florida's robust economy, a region recognized for its impressive job market and continuous population growth, positioning Clay County for sustained prosperity.

Frequently Asked Questions about Saratoga Springs Agrihood

What is the projected timeline for Saratoga Springs to be completed?

Construction is scheduled to begin in early 2026, with the development being built in phases over multiple years. The ceremonial groundbreaking already took place on January 30, 2025.

How many homes will be in Saratoga Springs, and what types will be available?

Saratoga Springs is planned to feature up to 4,489 homes across five distinct neighborhoods. While specific home types will vary, builders Lennar and Ryan Homes are known for offering a range of floor plans suitable for families.

Will residents truly be able to participate in the farming operations?

Yes, the agrihood concept is centered on resident participation. Residents can engage through Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs, volunteer opportunities on the farms, and farm-to-table dining experiences, allowing varying levels of involvement.

How will Saratoga Springs impact local schools?

Clay County has proactively planned for the growth from Saratoga Springs by incorporating three new schools into their 10-year facilities plan. A new high school is projected to open in 2030-31, and two elementary schools by 2032, ensuring educational quality for the community.

What are the key benefits of living in an agrihood community like Saratoga Springs?

Living in an agrihood like Saratoga Springs offers unique benefits including access to fresh, local produce, a strong sense of community fostered by shared agricultural activities, abundant green spaces, and a sustainable lifestyle that connects residents to nature and their food sources.

Final Thoughts on Saratoga Springs

Saratoga Springs represents a groundbreaking evolution in community design, offering a compelling blend of modern living, agricultural authenticity, and deep community connection in Northeast Florida. For families seeking a unique lifestyle that prioritizes sustainability, access to fresh food, and top-tier amenities, this agrihood development in Green Cove Springs is truly exceptional. It stands as a testament to how thoughtful development can balance growth with environmental responsibility and community well-being. With Clay County's excellent schools, strategic location, and this innovative farm-to-table concept, Saratoga Springs is poised to be a highly sought-after destination for those looking to relocate and build a fulfilling life in Florida. The early 2026 construction timeline means it's the perfect time to explore what this vibrant new community will offer.

About Amy Howell

Amy Howell is Owner & Lead Realtor®, O.N.E. Florida Group | Top‑Producing Northeast Florida Realtor® | Real Estate Coach | Military PCS Specialist at O.N.E. Florida Group, LLC. Recognized as one of Northeast Florida's top‑producing Realtors®, Amy Howell has spent more than five years helping families, investors, and—especially—military service‑members move with confidence along Florida’s First Coast. As the owner and lead Realtor® of the veteran‑owned O.N.E. Florida Group, she pairs concierge‑level service with cutting‑edge marketing, including personally closing 70+ homes in a single neighborhood. A military spouse and PCS relocation expert, Amy coaches other agents nationwide while serving buyers and sellers from Jacksonville and St. Johns County to Palm Coast. When she’s not negotiating contracts, you’ll find her mentoring Realtors®, leading PTA initiatives, or enjoying beach time with her four children.

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All information on this page is deemed reliable but not guaranteed and should be independently verified. O.N.E. Florida Group, LLC is an Equal Housing Opportunity brokerage.