Top Florida Communities: Riverside Homes is Building in Nation's Most Desirable Communities

Finding the perfect home is about more than just the floor plan or the finishes—it's about where that home is planted. For homebuyers in Northeast Florida, the location options just got some major national recognition. John Burns Research & Consulting released its annual rankings on January 7, 2026, listing the Top 50 Master-Planned Communities in the country. We are thrilled to announce that two of the communities where Riverside Homes builds—SilverLeaf and Nocatee—secured coveted spots on this prestigious list.

Being part of a top-ranked master-planned community means our homeowners enjoy superior amenities, thoughtful design, and a vibrant lifestyle. It reinforces our commitment to not just building houses, but creating homes in places where people truly want to live.

Northeast Florida Shines on the National Stage

Despite a slight national dip in sales across master-planned communities in 2025, Northeast Florida continues to attract buyers who value lifestyle and quality. Out of 15 Florida communities that made the cut, St. Johns County proudly claims three of the best.

SilverLeaf: Rising to the Top

Coming in strong at No. 7, SilverLeaf by The Hutson Companies continues to be a magnet for families and individuals alike. It saw impressive growth with about 1,002 homes sold in 2025—roughly 100 more than the previous year. This community offers a family-friendly environment with resort-style amenities that clearly resonate with today's buyers.

Nocatee: Lasting Appeal

Rounding out the trio at No. 37 is Nocatee by the PARC Group. As the residential portion of Nocatee nears full build-out, the demand has only intensified. Buyers are eager to secure their spot in this established community, attracted by the fact that construction is nearly complete, ensuring a settled and polished neighborhood feel.

A Commitment to Quality Living

At Riverside Homes, we choose where we build very carefully. We look for partners and developers who share our vision for excellence.

"It is incredibly important for Riverside Homes to build quality homes in quality communities where people desire to live, work, and play," says Matt Roberts, President of Riverside Homes. "Seeing SilverLeaf and Nocatee recognized nationally confirms that we are in the right places. We want our homeowners to love their neighborhood just as much as they love the home we build for them."

This national recognition is a testament to the lifestyle Northeast Florida offers. When you choose a Riverside Home in one of these top-tier communities, you are investing in a lifestyle that has been vetted and celebrated on a national scale.

Ready to Find Your Dream Home?

If you are looking to build in one of the nation's top communities, we are ready to help. Whether you prefer the family focus of SilverLeaf, or the established charm of Nocatee, Riverside Homes has a floor plan and a homesite waiting for you.

Visit our Communities page to explore our current inventory and floor plans in these award-winning neighborhoods.