Just north of Jacksonville and minutes from the Georgia border, Nassau County is a place where military pride runs deep. With nearly 80,000 veterans and generations of military families living in the Jacksonville area, honoring those who serve comes naturally here. From classrooms to community events, every part of Nassau County celebrates the dedication, resilience, and unity that define America’s military families. Let’s explore how this city, and one North Florida community, blend natural beauty with a strong sense of service and belonging.
1. Close to Military Bases That Shape the Region
For active-duty service members, veterans, and their families, location isn’t just about convenience — it’s about connection. Nassau County delivers that with quick access to Naval Station Mayport, the nation’s third-largest naval facility, and Naval Air Station Jacksonville, one of the Southeast’s largest. Nearby, Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay in St. Marys, Georgia, anchors the U.S. Atlantic Fleet’s submarines. Together with the Florida Air National Guard and the U.S. Marine Corps’ Blount Island Command, these installations keep commissary privileges, camaraderie, and the rhythm of military life close to home.
2. Events Honoring Those Who Serve
In Nassau County, honoring service isn’t a single day — it’s a year-round tradition. From the Jacksonville Sea & Sky Show to Veteran’s Day parades, Northeast Florida proudly celebrates its military heritage year-round. In October, NAS Jax celebrated the Navy’s 250th anniversary with a free concert for all military personnel featuring country artists Jelly Roll and Shaboozey. Local celebrations — from flyovers above the USS Orleck to school-led veteran appreciation programs — remind residents that service is part of the region’s heartbeat.
3. Everyday Discoveries in Nassau County
Life in Nassau County extends far beyond the bases, offering countless ways to explore, relax, and reconnect with nature. Trails, rivers, and waterways wind through the landscape, inviting residents to hike Four Creeks State Forest, kayak the Nassau River, or spend the day on Amelia Island’s beaches. Locals also love River City Marketplace and Downtown Fernandina’s historic shops, galleries, and cafés. Whether it’s a day at the Jacksonville Zoo, a concert at the Center for the Performing Arts, or an evening on Amelia Island’s coastline, there’s always something to discover nearby.
4. Top-Rated Schools and Lifelong Learning
For active-duty parents and growing families, education is often a top priority — and Nassau County delivers. The Nassau County School District earned recognition as the #1 school district in Florida for the 2024-2025 school year. Every one of its 17 schools received an “A” grade from the state, with students excelling in algebra, science, and civics. Beyond K–12, lifelong learning continues through programs at the University of North Florida, Jacksonville University, and Florida State College at Jacksonville.
5. Where Military Service Transitions into Support
Nassau County doesn’t just welcome veterans — it empowers them. The Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs (FDVA) offers the Hope Florida initiative, connecting veterans and their families with local resources. Employment programs such as the Veterans Florida Career Services Program provide one-on-one career support, while Florida laws waive licensing and certification fees for transitioning service members.
Across Nassau County, many communities continue this tradition of support through homes for all stages of life. The master-planned community of Tributary in Yulee welcomes all with single-family homes by two of the nation’s most respected builders. Lennar and David Weekley Homes offer to-be-built and move-in-ready homes from the $400s, making homeownership within reach for those who have served and for families seeking a vibrant place to call home.
Explore New Nassau County Homes from the $400s
Spanning 1,550 acres of scenic North Florida land, Tributary invites residents to Explore More every day.
At the heart of the community, The Lookout Amenity Center offers a resort-style hub featuring a fitness center, pickleball courts, a children’s playground, and a resort-style pool. For families and retirees alike — including those in Lennar’s 55+ Lakeview neighborhood — Tributary provides a place to connect, play, and thrive surrounded by nature. Even four-legged friends have space to roam at the community’s dog park, ensuring every member of the family feels at home.
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