Settling Into Gainesville: Your City Guide

Congratulations on moving to Gainesville, the home of the Florida Gators, birthplace of Tom Petty, and cultural jewel of North Central Florida. Now that your boxes are packed and you’ve set your sights on what’s ahead, here’s a step-by-step guide to settling into your new city.

Step 1: Find Housing

If you’re buying a house in Gainesville, you’ll have the benefit of a realtor to show you properties. While renters won’t have that guidance, that doesn’t mean other assistance isn’t available. Contemporary Management Concepts, LLLP is one of the largest property management companies in the region. Here’s a sample of the properties we manage.

Student Housing Near UF & Santa Fe

Are you an incoming freshman, transfer student, or graduate student? Well then, we’ve got a list of off campus housing near the University of Florida and Sante Fe Community College that could appeal to you!

Campus View Place

These furnished student apartments near UF are walking distance from campus and packed with interior amenities, including stainless steel appliances, washer and dryer units, and high-speed internet.

Spyglass Apartments

Move-in-ready units with master suites, walk-in closets, and modern appliances, these apartments near UF and Santa Fe are ideal for students who appreciate the finer things in life.

Check out all of our student apartments for rent near UF.

Professional Apartments In Gainesville

For young professionals and families coming to Gainesville, the ideal apartment offers a convenient location, luxurious amenities, and a spacious floor plan with room to grow. Fortunately, we have some in mind for you.

23West

Whether you need one, two, or three bedrooms, these luxury apartments in Gainesville have a layout for every lifestyle. Advantages include direct-entry garages, modern appliances, and community amenities that include a fitness center, pool, and sun deck.

The Gathering at Arbor Greens

Live luxuriously at these pet-friendly apartments for rent in Gainesville featuring modern amenities and roomy floor plan options perfect for residents with a furry friend. 

The Vibe at Celebration Pointe

Enjoy the best in Gainesville dining, shopping, and entertainment just steps away from your apartment. These two- and three-bedroom, pet-friendly apartments boast modern amenities fit for every lifestyle. 

Bridgelight Townhomes

These townhomes are perfect for Gainesville residents searching for a quaint community with breathtaking nature views, a sparkling pool, and plenty of space to live as you want.

View all of our houses, townhomes, and apartments for rent in Gainesville, or contact us for assistance with apartment hunting.

Step 2: Set Up Utilities

Unless you’re moving into furnished housing, you’ll need to set up utilities such as electricity, cable, and internet. Don’t worry, we have all the information you’ll need!

Cox Communications

From surfing the web to streaming your favorite series, having reliable internet is a must. Cox Communications is one of Gainesville’s largest providers for internet, cable, and phone service. Alternatives include AT&T and DIRECTV.

Gainesville Regional Utilities

Whether you’re setting up electricity, natural gas, water, or another utility, GRU is probably who’ll you’ll need to talk to. We recommend creating an online account for easy bill pay.

United States Postal Service

Don’t forget to forward your mail to your new address. You can do this by visiting the nearest post office in Gainesville or online through USPS.com.

Step 3: Find The Hotspots

Whether you’re looking to buy home furnishings or eat at a local restaurant while you unpack your kitchen, here’s a list of hotspots Gainesville residents frequent.

Downtown Gainesville

Some cities have a symbolic downtown that’s really more of a sidewalk with historic buildings, but not Gainesville. Downtown Gainesville features several attractions, from the Union Street Farmer’s Market to the Hippodrome Theatre. There’s also a wide assortment of coffee shops, restaurants, and boutique stores, while the student-friendly nightclubs around UF are within walking distance.

Celebration Pointe

If big-name retailers and high-class eateries are more your speed, you’ll enjoy the sophisticated shopping experience at Celebration Pointe. Like you, Celebration Pointe is a new addition to Gainesville, but it’s already become a central attraction for trendsetters. It’s also home to one of Gainesville’s best movie theaters, Regal Celebration Pointe 10 & RPX.

Butler Plaza

Are you one of those people who could spend an afternoon shopping but don’t want to travel all around town to do it? Then Butler Plaza is the place for you. With over 150 stores, this retail area — which technically includes Butler Plaza, Butler North, and Butler Town Center — is a great place to spend the day with friends or family.

Step 4: Get Social

Given that it’s home to UF and many neighborhoods, Gainesville has residents and visitors from every walk of life. As a new arrival, you’ll want to expand your circle of friends. Whether you’re interested in meeting people who are the same age or share your hobbies, here are ways to meet new folks.

Meetups

Do you prefer outdoor adventures or staying indoors? Are you a beer fanatic or a health guru? Whatever the case may be, there’s a Meetup in Gainesville with your name on it. The best part about Meetup is the goal of participants is to meet new people, so you being a fresh face is exactly the criteria.

UF Events

There’s no better place for intellectually stimulating events in Gainesville than the University of Florida. Follow the UF calendar for information about movie showings, seminars, and other educational or cultural affairs where you’ll be able to learn new facts and meet new faces.

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