Considering a Move to DeBary
If you are considering a move to DeBary, you are certainly not alone. Each year, families, professionals, retirees, and remote workers discover this welcoming Central Florida city and decide it is the right place for their next chapter. Moving to DeBary often starts with a desire for more balance. People want space to breathe, a sense of community, access to nature, and proximity to major job centers without feeling overwhelmed by congestion or high costs.
Living in DeBary offers that rare combination of small town warmth and modern convenience. Located along the scenic St. Johns River in Volusia County, DeBary sits between Orlando and Daytona Beach, making it easy to enjoy both urban opportunities and coastal escapes. The city has grown steadily, yet it has remained intentional about preserving its natural beauty and community character.
At Wemert Group Realty, we have helped many buyers and sellers navigate a DeBary relocation. What stands out most is how quickly people feel at home here. Neighbors wave, local businesses know your name, and weekends are filled with outdoor adventures or community events. This DeBary relocation guide is designed to help you understand what life is really like here and why so many people are choosing to put down roots. Throughout this guide, we have linked helpful local resources so you can explore DeBary directly, from city services to parks, schools, and regional employers.
Lifestyle and Community: The Heart of Living in DeBary
Residents looking to stay informed often rely on local organizations that strengthen civic engagement and neighborhood pride. In addition to city-hosted events, groups such as the West Volusia Chamber of Commerce support small businesses and host networking and community gatherings that bring neighbors together.
Living in DeBary is defined by its strong sense of community and relaxed pace of life. The city has a welcoming atmosphere where people value connection, outdoor living, and local pride. Neighborhoods are diverse, ranging from established communities with mature trees to newer developments designed for modern lifestyles.
Community events play a big role in daily life. Residents enjoy seasonal festivals, farmers markets, outdoor concerts, and family friendly gatherings hosted by the city and local organizations. These events make it easy to meet neighbors and feel connected, whether you are new to town or have lived here for years. Information about city programs, community initiatives, and local events can be found through the official City of DeBary website, which serves as a helpful resource for residents and newcomers alike. Many residents also stay connected through community calendars and volunteer opportunities supported by the city.
Diversity is another strength of DeBary. The community includes long time Florida residents, newcomers from across the country, and international transplants who bring different perspectives and cultures. This mix creates a welcoming environment where people feel comfortable building friendships and raising families.
From our team’s perspective, one of the things we love most about DeBary is how intentional the city feels. Growth is happening, but it is thoughtful. Parks are preserved, trails are expanded, and development is balanced with green space. It is the kind of place where you can enjoy a quiet evening at home and still feel connected to something bigger.
Economy and Job Market: Opportunity with Balance
Moving to DeBary does not mean sacrificing career opportunities. The city benefits from its strategic location near major employment hubs in Central Florida. Commuters also appreciate access to regional transportation options such as the DeBary SunRail Station, which connects residents to employment centers throughout the Orlando metro area. Many residents commute to Orlando, Lake Mary, Sanford, and Daytona Beach, while others work remotely or operate local businesses.
Key industries in the region include healthcare, technology, hospitality, aerospace, education, and logistics. Major regional employers include healthcare systems like AdventHealth and Orlando Health, along with aerospace and defense companies connected to the Space Coast and Central Florida corridor. The nearby Lake Mary and Sanford areas are known for corporate offices and tech driven companies, while Orlando continues to be a major hub for tourism, healthcare systems, and innovation. This creates a diverse job market that supports professionals at many stages of their careers.
For entrepreneurs and small business owners, DeBary offers a supportive environment. Workforce and career development resources are available through organizations like CareerSource Central Florida, helping residents grow skills and connect with regional employers. The city encourages local business growth and provides resources through its economic development initiatives. This balance of opportunity and lifestyle is a major reason why professionals choose living in DeBary over more congested metro areas.
Education and Family Life: A Place to Grow
Education is a top priority for many families considering a DeBary relocation. The city places a strong emphasis on lifelong learning, youth development, and access to quality educational resources for students of all ages. The city is served by Volusia County Schools, which offers a range of public elementary, middle, and high school options, including magnet programs and career academies that prepare students for both college and technical career paths. Families also have access to charter schools, private schools, and specialized programs throughout the county.
Many schools in the area emphasize STEM education, arts integration, and extracurricular activities that support well rounded development. Parents appreciate the variety of choices and the ability to find a school environment that aligns with their child’s needs and interests.
Beyond K through 12 education, DeBary is close to higher education institutions such as Stetson University in DeLand and Daytona State College, providing opportunities for continuing education, professional certifications, and workforce training for students and working adults. Libraries, youth sports leagues, and community centers further enhance family life in the area.
Living in DeBary is especially appealing for families who want a safe, supportive environment with plenty of outdoor activities. Families also benefit from access to public resources such as the DeBary Public Library, which offers educational programs, events, and study spaces for all ages. Sidewalks, parks, and trails make it easy for kids to stay active, while parents enjoy peace of mind and a strong sense of community.
Recreation and Lifestyle Perks: Nature Meets Convenience
One of the most compelling reasons people fall in love with DeBary is the lifestyle. DeBary is also part of the River of Lakes Heritage Corridor, a regional initiative that highlights the area’s natural beauty, historic sites, and outdoor recreation opportunities along the St. Johns River. Outdoor living is a way of life here. The city is home to beautiful parks, nature preserves, and trail systems that encourage residents to spend time outside year round.
Gemini Springs Park is a local favorite, offering walking trails, picnic areas, kayaking access, campground facilities, and scenic views of natural springs. It is one of the most beloved outdoor destinations in Volusia County. The Spring to Spring Trail connects DeBary to neighboring communities and is popular with cyclists, runners, and families looking for an active weekend outing. The trail is part of a larger regional effort to promote healthy, outdoor focused living.
For water lovers, the St. Johns River provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Conservation and environmental education efforts are supported by organizations such as the St. Johns Riverkeeper, which works to protect and preserve this vital natural resource. It is not uncommon to spot manatees or enjoy a peaceful sunset along the riverbanks.
Beyond local recreation, DeBary’s location makes it easy to enjoy some of Florida’s most famous attractions. Orlando’s theme parks are about an hour away, while the beaches of Daytona and New Smyrna are within easy driving distance. This balance allows residents to enjoy a vacation like lifestyle without living in a tourist heavy area.
Real Estate and Cost of Living: Value and Variety
The real estate market is another major draw for those moving to DeBary. Housing options include single family homes, townhomes, waterfront properties, and newer construction communities. Many homes feature larger lots and access to green space, which is increasingly rare in Central Florida.
Compared to larger metro areas, living in DeBary often offers better value for your investment. Buyers can find competitive pricing while still enjoying proximity to major cities and employment centers. Property taxes and overall cost of living are generally more manageable than in heavily urbanized areas.
Market trends show steady demand, driven by relocation buyers and local move up buyers alike. Buyers often research zoning, future development, and neighborhood plans through resources available on the City of DeBary Planning and Zoning pages. This makes DeBary appealing not only for homeowners but also for those considering long term investment opportunities.
At Wemert Group Realty, we position ourselves as your guide through this process. Our team helps buyers compare neighborhoods, understand local zoning and development plans, and navigate everything from new construction to established riverfront communities. Our team understands neighborhood nuances, market timing, and how to align your housing goals with your lifestyle. Whether you are buying your first home or relocating from out of state, we are here to help you make confident decisions.
Insider Tips and Local Voices: What People Love About DeBary
“What surprised me most about DeBary was how peaceful it feels while still being close to everything,” shares one recent buyer who relocated from a larger city. “I expected quiet, but I did not expect such a strong sense of community.”
Another local resident notes, “Living in DeBary means I can kayak in the morning, work in Lake Mary during the day, and still be home in time for dinner with my family.”
From our agents’ perspectives, clients often tell us they did not realize how quickly DeBary would feel like home. The combination of friendly neighbors, natural beauty, and convenience creates a lifestyle that is hard to replicate elsewhere in Central Florida.
These local voices highlight what statistics alone cannot. DeBary is not just a place to live. It is a place to belong, grow, and build meaningful connections over time.
Choosing where to live is about more than finding a house. It is about finding a community that supports your goals, values, and lifestyle. Moving to DeBary offers the chance to enjoy Central Florida living at a more comfortable pace, without giving up opportunity or connection.
If you are exploring living in DeBary and want guidance tailored to your needs, our team at Wemert Group Realty would love to help. We offer personalized relocation guides, neighborhood tours, and local insights to help you feel confident every step of the way. Reach out to connect with us for a personalized relocation guide, neighborhood tour, or one on one consultation. We would love to help you feel at home here and support your move to DeBary with local expertise you can trust.
