Historic Arts Community & Lake Santa Fe Boating · Putnam / Alachua
Melrose, FL Homes for Sale & Lake Santa Fe Real Estate
Search Melrose FL homes for sale. Straddling the borders of Putnam, Alachua, Bradford, and Clay counties, Melrose is a charming historic village on the shores of 6,000-acre Lake Santa Fe, known for its vibrant arts scene and pristine spring-fed boating.
Living in Historic Melrose, Florida
Melrose is a hidden gem in North Central Florida. Centered around Lake Santa Fe—an Outstanding Florida Waterway known for crystal clear water and sandbars—Melrose offers waterfront estates, historic 19th-century Victorian homes, and quiet acreage homesteads.
The town's historic district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, featuring art galleries, community theater, local bakeries, and organic farmers markets.
Boating on Lake Santa Fe
Lake Santa Fe is a 6,000-acre recreational lake perfect for wakeboarding, sailing, pontoon cruising, and bass fishing. Public parks like Melrose Bay Park provide boat ramps, public piers, and swimming areas.
Commute to Gainesville & University of Florida
Melrose is located just 20 minutes east of Gainesville, making it a favorite country residence for University of Florida professors, medical staff at UF Health Shands Hospital, and professionals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What lake is in Melrose, FL?
Melrose sits on the shores of Lake Santa Fe and Melrose Bay, one of the largest and cleanest recreational spring-fed lakes in Florida.
What counties does Melrose sit in?
Melrose is unique in that it touches four counties: Putnam, Alachua, Bradford, and Clay, with the historic downtown core in Putnam and Alachua.
How far is Melrose from Gainesville, FL?
Melrose is approximately 18 miles east of Gainesville, about a 20 to 25-minute drive via State Road 26.
Is Lake Santa Fe good for boating and water skiing?
Yes, Lake Santa Fe is widely considered one of the finest water skiing, wakeboarding, and bass fishing lakes in North Florida.
What is the culture like in Melrose?
Melrose has a vibrant artist and literary community, featuring monthly art walks, local music, and the historic Melrose Homemakers Club.
Work with The Parham Team
Your local Putnam County real estate experts. Specializing in riverfront properties, acreage, lake homes, and family relocations with Momentum Realty.
Homes & Land for Sale in Putnam County, FL
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