Tallahassee may have a big reputation — seeing as how it’s not only Florida’s capital but also home to Florida State University and Florida A&M University — but did you know that it’s actually a surprisingly small and very livable city?
Located in the state's gently rolling Big Bend region, Tallahassee is bursting with the cultural and academic opportunities you’d expect from both a capital city and college town, all within the stately beauty of live oaks draped in Spanish moss. Residents enjoy mild winters, quick access to the Gulf Coast and Apalachicola National Forest, and a lower cost of living than many other Florida metros.
If you're considering moving to Florida, Tallahassee offers a unique blend of politics, education, and Southern charm.This guide highlights the best Tallahassee neighborhoods to help you decide which spot fits your lifestyle.
Choosing the Best Neighborhoods in Tallahassee
Moving to Tallahassee? Tallahassee offers a little of everything, from neighborhoods with parks and a great atmosphere for families to downtown spots with vibrant nightlife. We pulled together a list of the best Tallahassee neighborhoods to help make your choice easier.
You might be asking, “What is the best area of Tallahassee to live in?” or “What are the safest areas in Tallahassee?” To answer those questions and more, we looked at recent data, on‑the‑ground insights, and housing statistics from real estate sites (Redfin, Zillow, and neighborhood market reports) to gauge median home sale prices, sale trends, and housing inventory.
Every neighborhood on our list includes:
Median home sale price
Average rent
Commute time to Downtown
Unique things that make each neighborhood unique.
Just remember, real estate markets change quickly, so be sure to check live listings and market trends before making a move.
Ready to make the move to Tallahassee? Get a free quote from Colonial Van Lines today! |
5 Best Tallahassee Neighborhoods
Tallahassee is not a large city by any means. With a population of about 205,000, it ranks as Florida’s 9th most populous city. But the popularity of this Gulf Coast city is growing, and has increased by more than 3% since 2020. It’s easy to see why, with the rich history, culture, and outdoor experiences the city has to offer.
As of mid‑2025 the median home value in Tallahassee was around $292,963, well below the state’s median of $410,600.
Prices vary widely by neighborhood: in upscale golf communities the median sale price can exceed $700,000, while some historic areas near downtown offer homes below $300,000. It’s a buyer’s market, as home prices have dipped about 1.2% in the last year. Because of that, buyers need to act decisively, as homes go under contract in about 24 days in this area.
For renters, Tallahassee is also more affordable than many Florida cities — the average apartment rent for a one-bedroom is around $1,204 per month.
These neighborhoods made our top five list, each with its own unique vibe:
1. Betton Hills: Best for families and schools
Median home sale price: Around $557,000, reflecting a modest 6% year‑over‑year increase in July 2025
Average rent (1-bedroom): $1,095
Commute to Downtown: 5–10 minutes
Don't miss: McCord Park's shady walking trails, Winthrop Park with tennis courts and playgrounds, and the historic Goodwood Museum & Gardens
Betton Hills sits just north of downtown and midtown, making it extremely convenient to cultural activities and nightlife while retaining a leafy, residential feel. Large lots, mature oaks, and winding streets give the neighborhood a park‑like atmosphere.
The neighborhood boasts top‑rated elementary schools and magnet programs, which is why it's often considered one of the best places to live in Tallahassee for families. Its proximity to Tallahassee Memorial Hospital, easy access to supermarkets and shops, and a family‑friendly lifestyle help round out the benefits of living in Betton Hills.
Housing in Betton Hills ranges from mid‑century ranches to newer custom homes, many priced in the high $400,000s and up. Despite the relative affluence, the area maintains an approachable, community‑oriented vibe.
Families gather at neighborhood parks, and the close proximity to midtown's restaurants and boutiques means you're never far from date‑night options. For a bit of culture, stroll over to the Goodwood Museum, a restored plantation house with gorgeous gardens. If school quality and family‑friendly amenities top your list, Betton Hills deserves a close look.
2. SouthWood: Best Master-Planned Community
Median home sale price: $475,000
Average rent (1-bedroom): $1,779
Commute to Downtown: 15 minutes
Don't miss: SouthWood Town Center with restaurants and shops, Central Park Lake and Boardwalk, and the 18‑hole SouthWood Golf Club
Looking for a small town atmosphere with modern amenities? Check out the master-planned community of SouthWood, located southeast of downtown Tallahassee. Residents rave about the strong sense of community where neighbors wave to each other on the street, kids ride bikes to each other's homes, and the community homeowners’ association hosts regular events like food truck nights, outdoor movies, parades and holiday celebrations..
There are plenty of outdoor activities within Southwood, which includes over 1,000 acres of interconnected green space. The 123-acre Central Park and Central Lake provide places to play, fish, and picnic. There’s also a community pool with a splash fountain, a kid‑friendly playground, and an 18‑hole golf course, as well as miles of walking trails taking you through the wetlands. The community is also near the J.R. Alford Greenway, a 17-mile trail system great for hiking, biking, or horseback riding.
Southwood offers a variety of housing types, including townhouses and cottages. You’ll also find larger single‑family residences, many featuring front porches reminiscent of old Florida architecture. And for families, the community has its own public elementary school and is located in close proximity to top-rated Chiles High School.
If you appreciate the amenities of a resort with the friendliness of a small town, SouthWood is easily one of the best choices in Tallahassee.
3. Midtown/All Saints: Best for Young Professionals and Nightlife
Median home sale price: $440,000
Average rent (1-bedroom): $1,779
Commute to Downtown: 5 minutes; many residents walk or bike
Don't miss: Lake Ella & Fred Drake Park, the Midtown Reader bookstore, Midtown's craft breweries and eateries, and First Friday art events in nearby Railroad Square Art Park.
If you’re looking to live where the action is, two distinct neighborhoods near downtown Tallahassee have a lot to offer when it comes to arts, culture, dining, and entertainment.
Midtown, just north of downtown, is one of the city's liveliest districts. The neighborhood is anchored by Lake Ella, a picturesque park with a walking path, food trucks, and a small farmers' market.Surrounding streets are lined with locally owned restaurants like the unique Midtown Caboose, coffee shops, bars, boutiques, Paul Tamian Fine Art and other galleries, giving a funky, artsy vibe to this neighborhood.
Right next to Midtown and near FSU’s main campus is the All Saints district. This neighborhood is the epicenter of Tallahassee's nightlife, with restaurants, breweries such as Fools Fire, and live‑music venues.
Railroad Square Art District brings culture to life in the All Saints neighborhood, where the warehouse district has been converted into a home for more than 50 art studios, galleries, and small shops and it plays host to First Friday events that draw people in from all over Tallahassee and beyond.
Housing options range from small cottages and renovated bungalows to modern condos and townhouses. Rent is a little higher in Midtown and All Saints than other neighborhoods, but you get the convenience of walkability. WalkScore rates Midtown high for pedestrian friendliness. If you're looking for Tallahassee neighborhoods with the best nightlife and an easy commute to work, Midtown should top your list.
4. Downtown Tallahassee: Best for Urban Living
Median home sale price: $278,000
Average rent (1-bedroom): $1,221
Commute to Downtown: You're already there! Most attractions are within walking distance.
Don't miss: The Florida State Capitol complex, historic Cascades Park and amphitheater, and the Florida Museum of History
Downtown Tallahassee is the heart of state government and the region's economic center, as well as the campuses of Florida State University and Florida A&M University, just a short bike or bus ride away.
Tall modern office buildings share space with historic structures and colorful murals. Lawmakers, lobbyists, students, and families all mingle together in this vibrant downtown. For entrepreneurs considering moving a business to Florida, downtown provides excellent access to government resources and networking opportunities.
The area has experienced a renaissance over the past few years, attracting new luxury condos, hotels, and co‑working spaces, but without the traffic and congestion of Florida’s larger cities.
Restaurants and cocktail bars such as the popular Bar1903 and Charlie Park with its amazing rooftop view cater to state employees and college students alike. It’s also a nice neighborhood for families, who can enjoy walking the paved trails of Cascades Park, attending concerts at Adderly Amphitheater, or visiting the playful splash pad with kids.
Housing options range from new residential towers with rooftop pools and city views to older neighborhoods like Myers Park with more traditional homes within walking distance of downtown.
If you crave urban convenience without the sprawl of a big city, downtown Tallahassee delivers.
5. Golden Eagle: Richest and Safest Neighborhood
Median home sale price: $735,000
Average rent: $3,039
Commute to Downtown: 20–30 minutes
Don't miss: Golden Eagle Country Club’s 18‑hole Tom Fazio–designed golf course and fishing or paddleboarding on Lake Diane
If luxury living and security are top priorities, look no further than Golden Eagle. This gated community in northeast Tallahassee features some of the most expensive homes in the city. You’ll find stately brick homes with luxurious amenities, manicured lawns, and 24‑hour security. Homes in Golden Eagle often feature four or more bedrooms, custom architecture, and views of the golf course or surrounding lakes.
A combination of low crime rates, top-rated schools and single-family homes makes Golden Eagle one of the most family‑friendly neighborhoods in Florida. Residents enjoy miles of quiet streets for jogging, a clubhouse with dining options, and easy access to shopping in nearby Bradfordville.
The combination of affluence, safety, and amenities makes Golden Eagle one of the best neighborhoods in Tallahassee for those seeking exclusivity.
Neighborhoods in Tallahassee to Avoid
While overall the city of Tallahassee has an A+ crime rating, there are some places you might steer clear of when moving to the city. Higher crime rates outweigh the perceived advantage of lower housing costs in these neighborhoods:
The Gardens at Westlake
Perkins
Falls Chase
Terrance Heights
Providence
Planning Your Tallahassee Move
Moving doesn't have to be daunting. Whether you decide to settle in family‑friendly Betton Hills or urban Downtown Tallahassee, Colonial Van Lines can help. With over 50 years of experience in long‑distance moving, our team of experts will pack, load, and transport your belongings so they arrive safe and sound at your new home. Before you move, be sure to create a comprehensive moving checklist to ensure nothing gets forgotten during your relocation.
Colonial Van Lines offers full‑service options, including furniture assembly and unpacking, allowing you to focus on settling into your new community. Ready to get started? Request a free moving quote today and let the professionals handle the heavy lifting.