How Close is St. Augustine to Major Cities and Airports?

St. Augustine strikes a rare balance—offering a relaxed coastal lifestyle while keeping major cities and travel hubs within easy reach. Whether you're commuting, planning a getaway, or catching a flight, you won’t have to go far. Here’s a look at the closest metropolitan areas and airports, making travel to and from Florida’s oldest city effortless.

Major Cities Near St. Augustine

St. Augustine's central location in Northeast Florida provides quick access to several major cities, each offering unique attractions and opportunities.

Jacksonville, FL – 40 miles | 45 minutes

Jacksonville is the closest major city to St. Augustine, offering many amenities, employment opportunities, and cultural experiences. With a thriving business district, professional sports teams, and a major international airport, Jacksonville is a convenient destination for both work and leisure. Whether you’re catching a NFL Jaguars game, visiting the Cummer Museum of Art, or commuting for a job, Jacksonville is just a short drive up I-95.

Daytona Beach, FL – 55 miles | 1 hour

Known for its motorsports history and wide sandy beaches, Daytona Beach is a popular getaway for St. Augustine residents. Home to the famous Daytona 500 and Bike Week, the city attracts racing enthusiasts and beachgoers alike. Aside from the speedway, Daytona Beach offers an expanding downtown, oceanfront boardwalks, and access to Daytona Beach International Airport, making it an excellent option for travel and entertainment.

Gainesville, FL – 72 miles | 1 hour 30 minutes

Gainesville, home to the University of Florida, is a bustling college town with a strong emphasis on education, research, and healthcare. It offers a unique mix of urban life and natural beauty, with museums, performing arts centers, and access to outdoor recreation like Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park. Gainesville’s growing job market and strong medical community make it an attractive destination for professionals and students.

Orlando, FL – 110 miles | 1 hour 45 minutes

Orlando is Florida’s entertainment capital, home to world-renowned theme parks like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld as well as an NBA team - the Orlando Magic. Beyond tourism, Orlando has a strong economy driven by technology, healthcare, and business conferences. With one of the busiest international airports in the country, Orlando is a key travel hub for domestic and international flights.

Tampa, FL – 180 miles | 4 hours

Sitting on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Tampa is a dynamic city with stunning waterfront views, cultural attractions, and a booming job market. The city is home to Busch Gardens, the Tampa Riverwalk, and a variety of top-rated beaches. It is also home to the NFL Tampa Bay Buccaneers and NHL Tampa Bay Lightning. With a growing economy and access to Tampa International Airport, Tampa serves as both a vacation destination and an expanding business center.

Tallahassee, FL – 190 miles | 4 hours

As Florida’s capital, Tallahassee is the political heart of the state, housing government offices, Florida State University, and a historic downtown district. The city blends southern charm with academic and political influence, making it an attractive destination for students, professionals, and history buffs. Tallahassee’s rolling hills and arts scene set it apart from other Florida cities.

Savannah, GA – 160 miles | 2 hours 30 minutes

Savannah is one of the most picturesque cities in the South, known for its cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and scenic riverfront. The city’s blend of history, culture, and southern hospitality makes it a great road trip destination from St. Augustine. Whether exploring Forsyth Park, taking a riverboat cruise, or enjoying the city’s famous culinary scene, Savannah offers a charming getaway within easy driving distance.

Airports Near St. Augustine

While St. Augustine doesn’t have a major commercial airport, several options nearby make air travel convenient. Here’s a breakdown of the closest airports and their benefits.

Northeast Florida Regional Airport (UST) – 4 miles | 10 minutes

Located just minutes from downtown St. Augustine, Northeast Florida Regional Airport primarily serves private and charter flights. While it doesn’t offer commercial airline service, it’s a great option for travelers using private aviation or local charter companies.

Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) – 53 miles | 50 minutes

JAX is the nearest major airport to St. Augustine and serves over 6 million passengers annually. It offers flights from major airlines like Delta, American, and Southwest, making it the most convenient option for domestic and international travel. With numerous car rental services, shuttles, and ride-sharing options, getting to St. Augustine from JAX is quick and easy. The airport is also undergoing a major expansion, including the addition of Concourse B, which will increase capacity and bring even more flight options. A new parking garage and terminal upgrades are also in progress, further enhancing the convenience and efficiency of travel through JAX.

Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB) – 54 miles | 1 hour

DAB is a smaller regional airport that provides a quieter travel experience compared to larger hubs. It offers flights to major connecting cities like Atlanta and Charlotte, making it an efficient choice for travelers looking to avoid the crowds. Rental cars and shuttles make transportation to St. Augustine simple and hassle-free.

Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) – 90 miles | 1 hour 30 minutes

SFB is a popular alternative to Orlando International Airport, catering primarily to budget airlines like Allegiant Air. With a focus on domestic travel, this airport is an affordable option for those flying from smaller regional airports across the U.S.

Orlando International Airport (MCO) – 104 miles | 1 hour 45 minutes

MCO is the largest and busiest airport in Florida, serving more than 50 million passengers per year. It offers a vast selection of direct flights to domestic and international destinations, making it the best choice for global travel. The airport also features extensive dining, shopping, and transportation options, ensuring a smooth travel experience.

Tampa International Airport (TPA) – 172 miles | 4 hours

TPA is known for its ease of navigation and top-rated customer experience. Serving over 22 million passengers annually, it offers a wide range of flight options, including international connections. While it’s a longer drive from St. Augustine, travelers seeking specific flights or airlines may find TPA to be a great choice.

Transportation Options from Airports to St. Augustine

No matter where you fly into, there are multiple ways to reach St. Augustine efficiently:

• Car Rentals: Available at all major airports, offering flexibility for your trip.
• Shuttle Services: Companies like GO Airport Shuttle and Mears Transportation provide direct routes from JAX and MCO.
• Public Transit: Greyhound and Megabus offer routes from Jacksonville and Orlando to St. Augustine for budget-friendly travel.
• Ride-Sharing Services: Uber and Lyft operate at JAX, MCO, and DAB, providing a convenient and hassle-free option to get to St. Augustine.

Why St. Augustine’s Location is Ideal

• Easy Access to Major Cities: Whether you need the amenities of Jacksonville, the attractions of Orlando, or the charm of Savannah, St. Augustine’s location is prime.
• Multiple Airport Options: You’re never more than two hours away from a major airport, making travel convenient.
• Peaceful Coastal Living with Big-City Perks: Enjoy the historic beauty of St. Augustine while staying connected to Florida’s largest cities.

Conclusion

St. Augustine combines a laid-back coastal atmosphere with seamless access to major cities and airports, making travel and daily life effortlessly connected. Whether you're commuting, taking a trip, or simply exploring new destinations, everything you need is within reach.

Considering a move to St. Augustine? Let’s find the perfect home in a location that fits your lifestyle. Reach out today, and I’d be happy to help!