Homes for Sale in the UNF Area & Southside (32224)

What the 32224 ZIP Code Actually Covers

ZIP code 32224 stretches across a significant portion of the Southside, bounded roughly by Atlantic Boulevard to the north, Kernan Boulevard to the east, J. Turner Butler Boulevard (202) to the south, and St. Johns Bluff Road to the west. This isn't a single neighborhood—it's a collection of distinct communities including San Pablo, Deerwood, Hodges Boulevard corridor, and areas immediately surrounding the UNF campus.

The UNF campus itself sits near the center of this ZIP code, and its presence influences everything from rental demand to retail options. Beyond the university, you'll find Town Center at the eastern edge (technically in 32246 but a primary draw for 32224 residents), the Deerwood Office Park, and major corporate employers including Bank of America operations and Fidelity National Financial headquarters.

This geography matters because home prices, lot sizes, and community character vary significantly within 32224 depending on which pocket you're in. A home near the UNF Athletic Complex won't feel the same as one near Kernan and McCormick, even though they share a ZIP code.

Current Market Conditions and Pricing for Homes for Sale in the UNF Area 32224

As of early 2026, the median home price in 32224 sits around $385,000—slightly above Jacksonville's overall median but still competitive compared to premium Southside markets like Nocatee or Ponte Vedra Beach. Single-family homes typically range from $300,000 for older 3-bedroom models to $550,000+ for newer construction with 2,400+ square feet.

Townhomes and condos, which make up roughly 25% of inventory in 32224, generally list between $220,000 and $320,000. These suit buyers prioritizing lower-maintenance living, walkable access to university amenities, and investors targeting rental income. The Jacksonville Florida real estate market in 2026 has stabilized after 2021-2022's rapid appreciation, with inventory increasing modestly but still favoring sellers in desirable subdivisions.

Days on market average 28-35 for well-priced homes in move-in condition. Listings that linger beyond 45 days typically have pricing issues, deferred maintenance, or unfavorable locations near major roadways. Multiple offers remain common for homes under $400,000 that show well and hit the market on a Thursday or Friday.

Property taxes in Duval County run approximately 1.1-1.3% of assessed value annually. HOA fees vary—many single-family subdivisions charge $300-600/year for basic amenities, while townhome communities with pools and fitness centers range $150-250/month.

Neighborhood Types and Housing Stock in 32224

The housing in 32224 breaks into several categories. Established subdivisions like San Pablo Forest, Greenbriar, and sections of Deerwood were built primarily in the 1980s and 1990s. These feature traditional single-family homes on quarter-acre to half-acre lots, brick or stucco exteriors, and mature landscaping. Many have been updated with kitchen and bathroom renovations, but expect original floor plans and architectural styles from that era.

Newer construction, concentrated along the Kernan Boulevard corridor and near UNF Drive, includes builders like Lennar, DR Horton, and Richmond American. These homes feature open floor plans, modern finishes, and energy-efficient construction. Lot sizes tend to be smaller—6,000 to 8,000 square feet is typical—but the homes themselves offer contemporary layouts and lower initial maintenance.

Townhome communities cluster near the university and along major corridors. Properties like Kernan Pointe, The Preserve at San Pablo, and communities off Southside Boulevard offer 2-3 bedroom units with attached garages and limited yard maintenance. These work well for buyers prioritizing convenience over outdoor space.

Condos are less common in 32224 compared to downtown Jacksonville areas like Riverside or San Marco, but a few mid-rise and garden-style buildings exist near St. Johns Town Center and along J. Turner Butler Boulevard.

Schools, Commutes, and Daily Convenience

Duval County Public Schools serve 32224, with elementary schools including San Pablo Elementary and Greenwood Elementary, middle schools like Kernan Middle, and high schools including Sandalwood High School. School assignments depend on your exact address, and zoning can influence home values—check current boundaries before making assumptions based on proximity alone.

The University of North Florida is the dominant institution in this ZIP code, enrolling over 17,000 students and employing roughly 2,000 faculty and staff. If you work at UNF, commutes are measured in minutes, not miles. For everyone else, access to I-295 and J. Turner Butler Boulevard puts most Southside employment centers within 15-20 minutes.

Downtown Jacksonville sits 20-25 minutes west via I-95. The Beaches (Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach) are 15-20 minutes east via J. Turner Butler to A1A. Jacksonville International Airport is 25-30 minutes north via I-295.

Retail and dining options are abundant. St. Johns Town Center—one of Northeast Florida's premier shopping destinations—features over 150 stores and restaurants, plus a movie theater and outdoor gathering spaces. Everyday needs are covered by multiple Publix locations, Target, Whole Foods, and countless chain restaurants along Southside Boulevard, Kernan, and Hodges.

The Buyer Pool in the UNF Area (32224)

Demand in 32224 is broad and steady across price points. The ZIP code's proximity to UNF draws buyers who work on campus and want a short commute, as well as those employed at the Deerwood corporate parks or nearby healthcare facilities who value access to I-295. Established subdivisions with larger lots and mature tree canopy draw buyers seeking more space and settled residential streets with parks and schools nearby, while smaller single-story ranch homes and townhomes near shopping and medical care suit buyers looking for lower-maintenance options.

Investors target townhomes and condos for rental income, particularly properties well-positioned for UNF-area rental demand or corporate relocation. Rental yields in 32224 typically fall in the 5-7% range depending on purchase price and rental demand for the specific property type.

If you're considering your first home purchase in Jacksonville, the First-Time Home Buyer Guide for Jacksonville Florida 2026 walks through financing options, down payment assistance programs, and what to expect during the buying process.

What to Watch for When Buying in 32224

Flood zones matter in Jacksonville, and portions of 32224 include areas with elevated flood risk, particularly near creeks and tributaries of the St. Johns River. Always check FEMA flood maps and factor flood insurance into your budget if the property sits in a Special Flood Hazard Area (Zone A or AE). Even homes outside flood zones benefit from a survey and elevation certificate to confirm long-term insurability.

HOA rules vary widely. Some subdivisions enforce strict architectural guidelines, paint color approvals, and landscaping standards. Others have minimal oversight. Read the covenants and restrictions before you close—especially if you plan to park an RV, operate a home business, or make exterior modifications.

Roof condition and HVAC age are critical in Florida. A 15-year-old roof in this climate is approaching replacement, and a 12-year-old HVAC system may need significant repairs or replacement within a few years. Budget accordingly or negotiate credits at closing.

Traffic patterns shift as development continues along the Kernan and Hodges corridors. Homes on or immediately off major roads experience higher noise and congestion, particularly during morning and evening commutes. Test-drive your commute during peak hours before you make an offer.