Living in Jacksonville

Are you moving to Jacksonville, FL? Here are ten things to know about living in Jacksonville! 

Moving to Jacksonville is a popular decision for young professionals and families. Before you relocate to Jacksonville, you'll want to know what it is like living in J-ville. When choosing a place to move, there are always a lot of pros and cons. When choosing a city like Jacksonville or anywhere in Florida, you'll want to be able to make an educated decision before relocating. 

Jacksonville, also known as 'Jax,' 'J-Ville,' the 'gateway to Florida' or even the 'River City,' is the place to be these days. If you love the outdoors and want to be surrounded by beautiful scenery, you are likely considering moving to Jacksonville, Florida, or somewhere like Jacksonville. Offering residents a suburban feel, Jacksonville is one of the best places to live in Florida. This city is safe and full of restaurants, parks, and many things to do.

The most populous city in the state, Jacksonville, currently has over 954,614 people living there. The large population makes Jacksonville the 11th most populous city in the United States. Located near the St. Johns River, picturesque beaches, and a naval air station, Jacksonville is the third-largest seaport in Florida.

Perfectly positioned in northeast Florida, the city is next to Interstate 95 and Interstate 10, making it easy to take weekend trips. If you are moving to Jacksonville, Florida, and are looking for homes for sale then be sure to read this guide to learn more about the city. 

Things to Know BEFORE Moving to Jacksonville, Florida

Affordable Cost of Living

Jacksonville's cost of living is about 6% lower than the national average. The average salary needed to live comfortably in Jacksonville is around $41,890. The median list price for a single-family home in Jacksonville is $386,279. 

Known to have one of the cheapest living costs in Florida, Jacksonville is far less expensive than places like Colorado Springs or Columbus, Ohio - and Jacksonville has the beach. If you are moving to the area, expect more bang for your buck.

*Data Sourced from Payscale. 

Prime Real Estate

Since the cost of living is so affordable, finding affordable housing that meets your budget is easy. Housing prices in Jacksonville are 6% below the national average. Due to this housing affordability, many people living in the area own their own houses. Whether you want a place downtown, affordable housing in the Jacksonville suburbs, or a nice house on the beach, there is a home for everyone.

If you do not want to own your own home, many residents in the area decide to rent. Rental properties are easy to come by in Jacksonville, and about 44% of those living in the city rent apartments. Once you decide on your budget and where to live, contact us to help you find your dream home.

A Perfect Location

Considered a great place to retire in Florida, Jacksonville, Florida, is found in the perfect location. Situated in northeast Florida, Jacksonville is the first major city you will come across in Florida when driving down Interstate 95. One of the pros of living in the city is that you are close to other major cities and destinations. Jacksonville is only a two-hour drive to Orlando and about a five-hour drive to Atlanta, Georgia.

Other big Florida cities that are relatively close include Tampa, Miami, and Naples. Since Jacksonville is within a day's drive to all these cities, planning short trips and weekend getaways makes it easy. Head to Miami for exciting nightlife and fun beaches, or drive to Naples for golf and five-star restaurants. There is much to explore, so start planning your mini vacations today.

Up and Coming Job Market

One of the big draws to Jacksonville is the growing job market. If you are applying for jobs and looking for job opportunities, then you are in luck because the job market in Jacksonville is continually growing. This means there are plenty of jobs here since Jacksonville was rated the best city in Florida for job growth. Home to multiple company headquarters and major corporations, there is a job for almost every career path.

JPMorgan Chase, Deutsche Bank, Fidelity National Financial, Winn-Dixie, Landstar, and Web.com are all examples of companies that reside in Jacksonville. Not to mention, the Naval Air Station Jacksonville and local universities also provide jobs for many residents. When living here, expect an average salary of about $51,910 annually. While this may seem low, the low cost of living makes up for it.

Home of Gorgeous Beaches

One of the most notable reasons for moving to Jacksonville, Florida, is the wide expanse of beaches. Known to have the highest shoreline of any city in the United States, Jacksonville is for you if you love sand between your toes and an ocean breeze. Spanning about 22 miles, the beaches here offer exquisite views and a prime tanning location.

With access to piers, surfing, kayaking, and boating, the beaches of Jacksonville will be an ocean lover's dream destination. Each beach in the area has its own charm and distinct feel, so visit nearby attractions and coastal communities to decide which beach is your favorite.

Check out these favorite local beaches in Jacksonville:

Neptune Beach: This small coastal community is a suburban beach perfect for families. Build a sandcastle and read your favorite book under the sun.

Jacksonville Beach: See what you can catch on the Jacksonville Beach Fishing Pier, learn how to surf, or take a long walk on the beach.

Atlantic Beach: Located above Neptune Beach, this clean beach is laid back and a great spot for any beach bum.

Ponte Vedra Beach: It features the highest sand dunes in Florida, reaching about 40 feet tall, and luxurious, upscale golf courses.

Amelia Island: Part of the barrier islands on the Florida coast, Amelia Island is home to 13 miles of sandy beaches, beautiful wildlife, pristine waters, and top-rated resorts and golf courses.

Little Talbot Island State Park: This 2500-acre Island is 17 miles northeast of Jacksonville. This is the perfect place to hammock and enjoy the water, featuring five miles of beaches and three miles of bike trails.

Culture is Celebrated

Jacksonville, Florida, breathes art and culture. With so many people moving here, a diverse community has been created. Since its discovery in 1564 and its foundation in 1822, the city is proud of its heritage and celebrates its history and culture through festivals, gatherings, museums, and live music. This beloved art and history can be experienced everywhere in the city, including historic neighborhoods and downtown art districts.

Recognized as the birthplace of southern rock, attend one of the many music festivals and concerts. Jacksonville is so enriched in its culture that it is considered one of the top art cities in the United States. Explore the area's wonders and celebrate what it means to be a resident.

Attend some of these cultural events and festivals in the city:

Jacksonville Jazz Festival: Hosted every Memorial Day weekend, join this huge festival over 15 blocks in downtown Jacksonville. Celebrate all things jazz with free concerts and local food. This is a local favorite celebration!

Great Atlantic Seafood and Music Festival: This free seafood festival is full of live music, all the seafood you can imagine, and games the whole family can enjoy. This is a fun annual event.

Jacksonville Art Walk: If you love shopping and art, head out to this art walk! Stroll through downtown to admire local art, marketplaces, and pop-up galleries. Feast on some local food and enjoy live music outdoors. Featuring hundreds of artists and thousands of participants.

Riverside Arts Market: Enjoy art, food, and music every Sunday in March through November along the riverside. Perfect for your family and friends or as a cute date idea.

Jacksonville Museum of Science and History: Learn all about the history of the city and state through interactive exhibits. There is even a planetarium on-site to view the stars and learn about constellations.

You Will Never Be Bored

There is more to Jacksonville than just the beach. Often referred to as the "River City by the Sea," there is always something exciting to do. As a new resident, you will quickly learn that there are many activities for all ages. Spice up your afternoons and weekends by trying new activities and going somewhere different.

Add these Jacksonville activities to your bucket list:

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens: The perfect family adventure! Featuring over 2,400 rare and exotic animals and 1,000 plant varieties, learn all there is to know about wildlife preservation.

Top Golf Jacksonville: This 65,000-square-foot golf center makes for a fun afternoon. Hit microchipped golf balls from a platform and aim for targets. Includes a full-service restaurant, a bar, TVs, and arcade games. You will want to keep the drinks coming at this golf experience.

Kingsley Plantation: Playing a large role in the history of Florida, this plantation home was built in 1814 and is a national park and landmark. Take a tour and learn about this southern home.

St. Johns Town Center: Do you love shopping? Then, head to this shopping center, which has over 175 retail stores and 20 restaurants. There is even an open-air area.

TIAA Bank Field: Home of the Jacksonville Jaguars, this is the place for game days. This field even has swimming pools, cabanas, and meeting spaces.

Jacksonville Arboretum and Gardens: This hidden gem has gorgeous hiking trails, streams, wildlife, and a lily pond. Bring your camera and take some pictures while enjoying the peaceful outdoors.

Friendship Fountain: This fountain is located in St. Johns River Park and is a sight. This fountain is the world's largest and tallest fountain. It has over 17,000 gallons of water and reaches a height of 120 feet, making it a popular tourist attraction.

Superior Education

Prized for having some of the best public schools in the country, the city of Jacksonville was ranked by U.S. News for having some of the nation's best school systems. These high-ranking schools are in Duval, Nassau, St. Johns, Clay, and Baker counties. The city is also home to some of the top institutions in Florida.

The Florida State College at Jacksonville, the University of North Florida, Jacksonville University, Edward Waters College, Trinity Baptist College, and the Chamberlin University College of Nursing are all in the city. Flagler College is close by in St. Augustine, Florida. As you can see, this is a well-educated area with plenty of higher education opportunities.

The Amazing Food

Featured on the Forbes list of five surprising foodie cities, the food scene in Jacksonville is rising to the top. While the food here might not be as talked about as other cities in Florida, expect to find bold flavors, famous chefs, and culinary art. Locally caught seafood and fresh produce are a given on any menu.

Since Jacksonville is only 25 miles south of the Georgia state line, bold southern flavors constantly appear. Find yourself dining at upscale restaurants, oceanside grills, or family-owned pubs and taverns.

Try out these local favorite restaurants in Jacksonville:

The Bearded Pig: Load up on mac and cheese, brisket, pulled pork, and southern sides at this barbeque spot.

Maple Street Biscuit Company: Come here for breakfast or brunch. Featuring warm and flaky biscuits that will melt in your mouth. Try the sticky chicken maple biscuit covered in all-natural maple syrup.

Restaurant Orsay: Mixing French cuisine with Southern influence. Order the cheese platter and one of the many creative cocktails.

Flying Iguana Taqueria: This tequila bar and Latin fusion restaurant feature weekly live entertainment. Order carnitas tacos or ceviche, and choose from over 100 tequilas.

Pros and Cons of Living in Jacksonville 

Pros: 

• Beautiful beaches 
• Prime real estate 
• Affordable cost of living 
• Amazing food 
• Excellent education 
• Fun things to do 
• Outdoor recreational activities 
• Safe neighborhoods 

Cons: 

• High heat and humidity 
• Traffic 
• Tourists 
• Extreme weather risk 

Is Moving to Jacksonville for you?

As you can see, Jacksonville, Florida, is a great place to live. Home to over 850 square miles of clean beaches and coastline, the city is full of natural beauty and wildlife. The population continues to grow thanks to the affordable cost of living, friendly neighborhoods, growing job opportunities, and endless entertainment.

Not only is it the largest city in Florida, but the weather is warm and sunny. Now is the time to move here, so contact us today, and we will help you find the perfect home. Learn more about what it's like living in Florida.