Ridgewood, Gainesville,FL

If you’re considering a move to Gainesville, FL, Ridgewood is a charming neighborhood nestled in the northwest part of the city that offers a wonderful blend of suburban tranquility and convenient city access. Known for its tree-lined streets and friendly vibe, Ridgewood appeals to families, young professionals, and retirees alike. The neighborhood boasts a variety of housing options, from cozy single-family homes to modern townhouses, making it easy to find a place that suits your lifestyle and budget. One of Ridgewood’s highlights is its proximity to several parks, where residents can enjoy outdoor activities, weekend picnics, or leisurely walks.

Ridgewood’s appeal extends beyond just its homes and atmosphere. The area is close to some fantastic local attractions that make everyday living enjoyable. For food lovers, the neighborhood is near popular eateries and cozy cafes that serve everything from Southern comfort food to international cuisine. Shopping is also convenient, with several retail centers and boutiques scattered throughout the area. For those who enjoy a bit of culture and community, Ridgewood is close to art galleries and community events that reflect Gainesville’s vibrant, creative spirit. This neighborhood offers a great balance of quiet living while still being engaged with the lively Gainesville community.

Another great advantage of living in Ridgewood is its accessibility to Downtown Gainesville, which is just a short drive away. Whether you’re heading to work, going out for a night on the town, or attending a university event, the downtown area is easily reachable, allowing residents to enjoy the best of both worlds. Downtown Gainesville features a bustling scene with restaurants, bars, music venues, and the historic Hippodrome Theatre, providing plenty of entertainment options. For families, the neighborhood’s location also ensures access to quality schools and healthcare facilities. All in all, Ridgewood is a welcoming and convenient neighborhood that offers a wonderful quality of life for anyone relocating to Gainesville.

26% of the Ridgewood population aged 16 and up are married, which is in line with national averages. This balance suggests a neighborhood with a healthy mix of families, couples, and single residents, creating a well-rounded community dynamic. You are likely to find a blend of stability and social variety, appealing to both long-term homeowners and younger professionals alike.

With only 26% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Ridgewood demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 167 residents, Ridgewood is notably smaller than many other Gainesville neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

Ridgewood has a population density of 2,433, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other Gainesville neighborhoods. The area offers just the right mix of activity and breathing room, creating a community that’s lively yet comfortable, with easy access to amenities and everyday conveniences.

With a lower-than-average age of 27, you're likely to find a noticeably youthful energy and vibrant atmosphere. This younger population brings a dynamic mix of activity, innovation, and community involvement, shaping a neighborhood that feels lively, forward-thinking, and full of opportunity — making it an especially appealing choice for younger adults looking for an active and engaging community.

The Ridgewood crime map uses detailed block group boundaries from address-based crime data to visualize crime patterns across the neighborhood, highlighting both low-crime zones and areas with higher levels of reported crime. This crime heat map helps paint a clearer picture of local safety trends, showing how crime can vary from one part of the community to another. Keep in mind that areas with higher activity on the map don’t always equate to dangerous conditions — locations near entertainment districts, major roads, or tourist destinations often see more reports simply due to the larger number of people passing through.

Housing prices can reveal a lot about the balance and overall appeal of a neighborhood. In Ridgewood, the median home price is about $286,400, which is on par with many comparable areas. This average pricing reflects a stable, affordable housing market and makes the neighborhood an appealing choice for a wide range of buyers seeking both value and long-term potential. Examining how home prices and appreciation rates in Ridgewood have shifted over time can reveal important clues about the neighborhood’s future value. These trends help potential buyers and investors understand market momentum and determine whether the area is likely to deliver strong returns over the long term.

The average rent price is about $0, which is lower than many surrounding areas. This makes it an appealing option for renters seeking budget-friendly living without sacrificing convenience, location, or quality of life.

School ratings in Ridgewood combine factors like student performance, graduation rates, and standardized test scores to provide a clear picture of overall educational quality. The use of NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores adds valuable context by offering a consistent national benchmark to see how local schools compare on a broader scale. Additionally, understanding the overall education level achieved by residents in Ridgewood can give insight into the community’s priorities and opportunities, helping families make more informed decisions about where to live and how well local schools may support long-term student success.