Typical of college towns, the area surrounding the main UF campus is filled with energy, co-eds, bars, restaurants, and nearly as many scooters as Rome! The real estate market in that area is teeming with student rentals, ranging from 6 bedroom homes to 1 bedroom apartments. The older residential areas date back to the 1940s or so, but during the past decade, and specifically during the past 3-5 years, many older dwellings have been demolished and replaced with luxury student housing that rivals a grand Las Vegas resort. With rooftop swimming pools, fitness centers, and well-appointed common areas, these apartments (and their residents) are the envy of non-students and students alike.

On the south side of campus is the Shands medical complex. It includes a Level 1 trauma center and general hospital, as well as cardiovascular, cancer, children’s, neurological disorders, dental and oral surgery, veterinary, and veteran’s hospitals. Needless to say, this area, which flanks about a mile of Archer Road and spills onto the university’s campus and beyond, is buzzing 24/7.

HUB / Innovation District

Did you know that Gainesville and UF are big tech supporters? In fact, the university’s tech incubator downtown, UF Innovate/The HUB, has sparked the development of the Innovation District, which straddles SW 2nd Avenue from 6th Street all the way to the university. Here, you’ll find both startups and established tech companies, many of which grew out of the incubator. Most are affiliated with the university, and those that are not have been drawn to the area due to its talent pool, low cost of living, and lab space, among other factors. Many exciting projects are being planned for this area, so be on the lookout for more info and announcements soon.

On a side note, Segway Group is a HUB supporter and you can find us at Thirsty Thursdays at the HUB every third Thursday of the month!