Thinking about moving and wondering if Jacksonville, FL is a good place to live? You’re not alone! This sunny coastal city offers a mix of vibrant culture, affordable living, and beautiful beaches. But like any city, Jacksonville has both its advantages and challenges. In this guide, we’ll explore the key factors that make Jacksonville a great place to live while also highlighting some of the potential drawbacks.
Fast Facts About Living in Jacksonville
Jacksonville, FL, is the largest city by land area in the contiguous United States. It is located in the northeastern part of Florida along the Atlantic Ocean. The city is known for its stunning coastline, featuring miles of sandy beaches and the St. Johns River, which runs through the heart of the city.
Jacksonville offers a blend of urban living, suburban communities, and coastal retreats, making it great place for many different people to call home. With a rich cultural scene, strong military presence, and thriving job market, Jacksonville continues to attract new residents looking for affordability and a high quality of life.
- Median home sale price: $287,628
- Average monthly rent: $1,309
- Walk Score: 26/100
- Transit Score: 65/100
- Bike Score: 53/100
- Major industries: Healthcare, retail, logistics, finance, and military
- No state income tax: Florida residents enjoy no state income tax, making Jacksonville even more affordable.
- Schools: Home to Duval County Public Schools, multiple private schools, and higher education institutions such as the University of North Florida and Jacksonville University.
- Major employers: Mayo Clinic, CSX Corporation, Bank of America, Naval Air Station Jacksonville, and Baptist Health.
- Healthcare providers: Top hospitals include Mayo Clinic, UF Health Jacksonville, Baptist Medical Center, and St. Vincent’s Medical Center.
- Major Attractions: Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens, Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve, Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park, Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens, MOSH (Museum of Science & History), Jacksonville Jaguars games at TIAA Bank Field, and the Riverside Arts Market.
Living in Jacksonville, FL: Pros and Cons
1. Pro: Affordable Cost of Living
Jacksonville is one of the most affordable major cities in Florida, making it a great place for families, retirees, and young professionals looking to maximize their budgets. Compared to other major Florida cities like Miami and Orlando, Jacksonville offers lower housing costs, groceries, and healthcare. The median home price sits at just above $287,000, significantly lower than the national average. Plus, Florida has no state income tax so that residents can stretch their earnings even further.
2. Con: Limited Public Transportation
Jacksonville’s vast size makes it heavily car-dependent, but public transportation options are improving all the time – in fact, its transit score has increased steadily to now reach 65/100. The city does have bus routes and the Jacksonville Skyway, and local leaders are working on making the system more extensive so it can be comparable to other major metro areas. Most locals own a personal vehicle, but it’s not necessarily a must if you’re willing to use public transit options.
3. Pro: Beautiful Beaches
Jacksonville is home to more than 22 miles of stunning white sand beaches, so living here means being just a short drive from some of the most beautiful places in Florida. Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, and Amelia Island offer stunning coastlines, great surf spots, and plenty of waterfront dining options. Whether you love sunbathing, beachcombing, or water sports, Jacksonville’s beaches provide endless recreational opportunities.
4. Con: Humid Climate in Summer
Florida’s warm weather is a big draw, but Jacksonville summers can be particularly hot and humid. With temperatures frequently hitting the 90s and high humidity levels, summers can feel intense. Many residents rely on air conditioning and enjoy outdoor activities early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the heat.
5. Pro: Outdoor Recreational Activities
With its warm climate and diverse landscapes, Jacksonville is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. With over 80,000 acres of parks, hiking trails, and waterways, there’s no shortage of things to do. The St. Johns River offers fantastic kayaking and boating, while the Timucuan Ecological Preserve provides miles of scenic hiking trails. Golf lovers will also appreciate the city’s numerous championship courses, and residents can also enjoy fishing, biking, and nature photography at the many state parks and nature preserves in and around Jacksonville.
6. Con: Hurricane Risk
Like much of Florida, Jacksonville is susceptible to hurricanes and tropical storms. While the city is less hurricane-prone than South Florida, it’s still important for residents to prepare for potential storms. Investing in hurricane shutters and flood insurance is a smart move if you plan to buy a home here.
7. Pro: Diverse Cultural Scene
Jacksonville has a rich arts and cultural scene. The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens, Riverside Arts Market, and the Jacksonville Symphony provide plenty of opportunities to explore local art and music. Additionally, the city hosts a variety of food festivals, live music events, and sporting events, ensuring there’s always something happening.
8. Pro: Community-Friendly Environment
Jacksonville offers a strong sense of community with a variety of welcoming neighborhoods. Whether you’re looking for a suburban feel in Mandarin, a historic district in Riverside, or an oceanfront escape in Atlantic Beach, Jacksonville has a neighborhood to suit every lifestyle. Families, retirees, and young professionals alike can find a place to call home.
9. Pro: Growing Job Market
Jacksonville’s economy is booming, with job opportunities in healthcare, finance, logistics, and the military. The city is home to major employers like Mayo Clinic, Bank of America, and CSX. Additionally, the presence of multiple military bases provides stable employment opportunities for service members and civilians alike.
Overall, is Jacksonville, FL a Good Place to Live?
So, with all this in mind, is Jacksonville, Florida a good place to live? Simply put, yes! Jacksonville offers an excellent balance of affordability, outdoor recreation, and cultural opportunities. While it does have some drawbacks, such as hot summers and limited public transportation, the city’s positives far outweigh the negatives.
If you’re looking for a coastal city with a lower cost of living and plenty of opportunities for work and play, Jacksonville is a great option.
Is It Expensive to Live in Jacksonville, Florida?
Compared to many other Florida cities, Jacksonville is relatively affordable. On average, the cost of living in Jacksonville is about 7% lower than the national average. Here, housing costs are lower than in Miami and Tampa, and residents benefit from no state income tax. Groceries, healthcare, and transportation expenses also tend to be lower than in other major metro areas. Whether you’re looking to rent or buy, Jacksonville provides excellent value for the cost of living.
Find Affordable Homes for Living in Jacksonville with Inspire Communities
If you’re considering making Jacksonville your home, Inspire Communities offers high-quality, affordable housing options. Whether you’re looking for a vibrant neighborhood near the beach or a peaceful suburban retreat, we have wonderful Jacksonville manufactured home communities that suit every lifestyle.
Start your journey today – contact Inspire Communities to find your perfect home in Jacksonville!
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