Bordered by a river, a lake and a state park, DeBary balances natural beauty with a growing suburban community. Known for its peaceful atmosphere and scenic surroundings, DeBary is a great place for homebuyers looking for a quiet suburban community surrounded by the famous natural beauty of Florida. “It’s a very special place to me,” says Sarah Doyer, a Realtor with Coldwell Banker Residential and 15-year DeBary resident. “We have the lowest tax rate in Volusia County, and it’s such a great place to live. We’ve just passed an ordinance that lets you go just about anywhere on your golf court, there’s tons of bike trails and boating opportunities, and the area is developing super quickly. You never run out of things to do around here.”
Indulge in a boat ride on Lake Monroe, minutes from many homes DeBary.
DeBary residents enjoy daily boating on the St. John's River.
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Industry bloomed on St. Johns River
In the latter 1800s, Samuel Frederick de Bary operated several steamboats that transported goods up the St. Johns River. The transportation and warehousing industry still contributes to the local economy, but today's leading industries are retail trade, finance and insurance, and healthcare and social services.
Comfortable, modern homes surrounded by wetlands
Houses in DeBary cover a range of styles, from mid-century single-family homes to more spacious modern residences in newly developed subdivisions. Most homes are on sizeable lots, offering residents ample yard space, often with lush landscaping that takes advantage of Florida's warm climate. Most homes in the area were built in the last 25 years and typically sell for $400,000 to $700,000. Many homes back up onto local forests and waterways, providing easy access to nature and giving streets and homes an outdoorsy feel.
DeBary showcases a breathtaking row of homes with tile roofs and manicured lawns.
Inside the Riviera Bella subdivision, DeBary residents enjoy a stunning clubhouse and pool.
A waterfront row of unique homes is found in the St. John Estates subdivision of DeBary.
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State parks, Lake Monroe and St. John’s River
Outdoor spaces here are a significant draw. City-maintained green spaces like Rob Sullivan Park offer athletic fields, picnic tables and modern playgrounds, and the 170-acre Alexander Island Park, scheduled to open in 2025, will double Debary’s public outdoor spaces. The 212-acre Gemini Springs is popular for its tropical canopy, waterways and abundant wildlife.
For more extensive outdoor adventures, locals can check out Blue Spring State Park or Lower Wekiva River Preserve. Both offer miles of hiking trails and boardwalks, along with scenic waterways and wetlands perfect for paddling and fishing. Anglers have their pick of well-stocked local fishing spots from St. John’s River to Konomac Lake to Lake Monroe. Cycling is also a popular way of getting around in DeBary. Recently named Florida’s 12th official Trail Town, the city sits at the intersection of 3 of the state’s largest bike trails, including the St. Johns River to Sea Loop.
DeBary residents enjoy daily boating on the St. John's River.
A couple enjoys scenic views at Blue Springs State Park just minutes from DeBary.
Only minutes from DeBary, you'll find Blue Springs State Park.
DeBary offers direct access to the St. John's River.
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Shopping plazas to the north and south
Shopping in DeBary is somewhat limited, though retail options have increased and will continue to increase as the city grows. The town is home to a Walmart Neighborhood Market and borders the commercial portion of Orange City. Residents can find shopping centers, department stores and supermarkets like Publix and Aldi. The dining scene in Debary is low-key but well-suited to its residents’ tastes. Swamp House Grill offers great seafood, an old-school Florida ambiance and lovely views of the local bayou. Locals looking for Italian flavors often stop by highly-rated Nonna Maria’s, known for its pizzas, pasta and calzones.
Nonna Maria's Ristorante offers fantastic Italian dining near DeBary.
Indulge in local cuisine at Swamp House Grill in DeBary.
DeBary Commons has a few restaurants and retail shops.
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Career academies at University High
The Volusia County School District – graded B on Niche – administers the public schools in DeBary. University High is graded B and ranked No. 8 on Niche’s list of the county’s best public high schools. University High offers various career academies and has been steadily growing its selection since its opening in 2010. The school’s newest addition is its culinary arts program, added in fall 2025.
Debary Elementary School is a public school located in Debary, Florida.
River Springs Middle School is located in Orange City, Florida.
University High School is an above average public school located in Orange City, Florida.
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Interstate 4 connects to Orlando and Daytona Beach
Debary is near Interstate 4 and U.S. Route 17-92, making driving to Orlando and Daytona Beach convenient. The city is also home to the second northernmost stop on the SunRail. The 49-mile train line runs through Downtown Orlando as far south as Poinciana in Osceola County. Plans to connect the SunRail to Orlando International Airport and Disney Springs were announced in late 2024.
DeBary has one hospital: AdventHealth Fish Memorial.
Daytona Beach and the International Speedway are only a 30 minute drive for residents of DeBary.
A quick trip west on Interstate 4 will get DeBary locals right to downtown Orlando.
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The Volusia Sheriff’s Office
DeBary contracts police, fire and animal control services, keeping taxes low. The Volusia County Sheriff’s Office reported an increase in violent crime and a decrease in property crime.
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