Workforce housing could become more expensive in St. Johns County as officials point to the rising cost of home construction. The St. Johns County Commission approved the Workforce Housing Zoning designation in July 2020 with the hope of attracting developers to create housing that is priced within reach of early career professionals, such as teachers and first responders. The zoning category offers incentives ― such as increased density and flexible design standards ― to developers for building developments where at least 40% of the houses are offered for a maximum of $210,000. That's the threshold that is still affordable to people of moderate income in the area, according to the county.