Things To Know About Moving to and Living in Jacksonville, Florida

Deciding where to drop anchor is a monumental decision. Moving to Jacksonville, Florida, is like setting sail where job prospects, the cost of living, and the lifestyle can come with the promise of steady winds at your back. Jacksonville, a sprawling metropolis on the Atlantic coast, offers a port for every traveler. With its mix of affordability, economic stability, and coastal charm, this city is more than just a waypoint; it's a destination where you can drop anchor and thrive.

Let's dive deep into the essence of Jacksonville and uncover whether it deserves its reputation as a great place to live.

Why Jacksonville? A Crow’s Nest View

Jacksonville isn't just another pretty face on Florida's coastline. As the biggest city in the continental U.S. by land area, its location has perks. Situated in northeast Florida, it’s just a short hop to Georgia and the Carolinas. You get the Florida sunshine without the over-the-top tourism of Orlando or Miami. Interstate 95 and I-10 intersect here, making road trips a breeze, and Jacksonville International Airport offers direct flights to major cities across the United States.

Jacksonville offers more than just beautiful beaches—it boasts great weather, affordable housing, top-notch education, and solid economic opportunities. You’ll also discover a diverse range of cultural and recreational activities that keep life interesting.

It’s Almost Always Sunny

It is in the Sunshine State and Jacksonville residents enjoy an average of 221 sunny days each year. Get ready for hot summers, mild winters, and the occasional hurricane scare. July and August can feel like a sauna, with humidity levels that make air conditioning a necessity, not a luxury. On the flip side, winters are a dream: lows rarely dip below 40°F, and you can play golf in January. Unlike South Florida, Jacksonville gets a touch of seasonal variety, with crisp fall mornings and spring breezes that make up for those steamy summers. The ability to enjoy outdoor recreation year-round is a dream come true.

The Cost of Living: Can You Afford Paradise?

Jacksonville Won’t Break the Bank

Let's face it; the cost of living can make or break a city. Jacksonville, thankfully, leans towards the "make" side. Jacksonville enjoys a 7% lower cost of living as compared to the national average. Put up against other major U.S. cities, Jacksonville is a breath of fresh air for your wallet. The cost of living is lower than Miami, Tampa, or Orlando, major Florida cities, with housing being substantially lower.

Median home values close to $310,000 won't induce a panic attack. The median property tax rate for Jacksonville is 0.77%. Enjoy Jacksonville’s big-city amenities without the crushing price tag. No state income tax is a big win, and while property taxes aren’t the lowest in Florida, they’re manageable.

Real Estate: From Beachfront Bliss to Suburban Sanctuaries

Whether you dream of waking up to the sound of crashing waves or prefer the tranquility of a tree-lined street, Jacksonville's real estate market has something for you. Picture yourself in a chic beachfront condo in Neptune Beach or a cozy family home in San Marco. The possibilities are as diverse as the city itself.

Jacksonville new homes offer the amenities and styles you want within your budget. If you would rather be just outside of Jacksonville, consider the suburbs.

Job Market: Where Opportunity Knocks

A City of Many Trades

Jacksonville isn't a one-trick pony regarding employment. Its job market is as diverse as its population, with thriving sectors in healthcare, finance, and logistics. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a fresh graduate, Jacksonville offers a fertile ground for career growth. Some of the key players here include the Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Baptist Health, Duval County Public Schools, Bank of America, and the Mayo Clinic. The economic climate here is favorable for both individuals looking to buy their first homes and those preferring the flexibility of renting.

Lifestyle and Leisure: More Than Just a Day at the Beach

Embracing the Great Outdoors

If you're an outdoor enthusiast, Jacksonville will feel like winning the regatta. Miles of pristine beaches beckon for sun-soaked adventures, while natural reserves like the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve offer a tranquil escape into nature. If golf is your thing, the PGA Tour headquarters in Ponte Vedra guarantees world-class courses.

State and local parks await you with camping, hiking, boating, sports fields, playgrounds and more. Make your way to some favorites including Big Talbot Island State Park, Pumpkin Hill Creek Preserve State Park, and Memorial Park. You can also get to the Everglades easily and take an airboat ride seeing the wildlife up close and personal.

A Cultural Oasis

Beyond the beaches, Jacksonville boasts a vibrant arts scene. Galleries showcase local talent, theaters host captivating performances, and music venues pulsate with energy. The city's youthful vibe is infectious, making it a hub for creativity and expression. Downtown and the Riverside area are hotspots for live music, craft breweries, and art galleries. Professional sports fans can get their fill of football and hockey watching the Jaguars and the Icemen.

The city also hosts major festivals, from the Jacksonville Jazz Festival to One Spark, a startup and innovation showcase. Check out the gardens and art programs at Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens or stroll the walking trails and do a nature scavenger hunt at Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. The Jacksonville Symphony and Florida Theatre bring high-end entertainment.

But Those Beaches…

We can’t talk about this city without referencing the amazing water recreation. Sail into the sunshine! Jacksonville doesn’t flaunt its beach scene like Miami, but it should. There are over 20 miles of white sand beaches, from the laid-back vibes of Neptune Beach to the upscale atmosphere of Ponte Vedra. The St. Johns River snakes through the city, offering scenic boat rides and waterfront dining.

Community and Safety: Finding Your Shipmates

A Neighborhood for Every Sailor

Jacksonville's neighborhoods each paint a unique picture, offering something for everyone. Whether you crave the hustle and bustle of downtown or the peace and quiet of the suburbs, you'll find a community that resonates with your soul.

Neighborhoods like Riverside and San Marco attract professionals and creatives with their historic charm and trendy vibes. If you want new construction, look to Nocatee or eTown—master-planned communities with top-tier amenities. Beach lovers gravitate toward Atlantic Beach and Ponte Vedra, while family-friendly suburbs like Mandarin and Julington Creek offer good schools and spacious homes.

Navigating the Safety Landscape

Like any major city, Jacksonville has its share of safety concerns. While some areas grapple with higher crime rates, many neighborhoods offer a secure and welcoming environment for families. Doing your homework and researching specific areas is crucial when considering a move.

Education and Family Life: Going Overboard for the Next Generation

Anchors Aweigh for Excellent Schools

Your children's educational journey will be in good hands here. Jacksonville shines in this regard, with several top-rated public high schools and a plethora of private school options. For private schools, take a look at Bolles School and Episcopal School of Jacksonville. A standout public district is St. Johns County (just south of Jacksonville) consistently ranked among the best in Florida. Secondary education includes strong academics at the University of North Florida and Jacksonville University. Another option is the affordable degree and certification programs at Florida State College at Jacksonville.

A Safe Port for Families

Jacksonville isn't just a city; it's a community that embraces families. Parks and recreational facilities abound, providing endless opportunities for outdoor fun. Community events foster connections and create a sense of belonging. From the Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens to the play area at the Museum of Science & History (MOSH) to Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp Baseball, minor league games, you will find plenty of fun for the family. And let’s not forget the memories you can make at major theme parks including Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, and LEGOLAND Florida Resort.

Jacksonville Is Smooth Sailing

Jacksonville is not without its flaws, no city is. Franklin D. Roosevelt said, “A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor”. But Jacksonville presents a compelling blend of affordability, career opportunities, and lifestyle advantages. If you're drawn to a dynamic environment with a touch of Southern charm, Jacksonville might just be the place you've been searching for. If Jacksonville calls your name, it's time to explore its diverse neighborhoods and a promising job market without the chaos of Florida’s more tourist-heavy destinations.

Whether you're charting a course for a fresh career, seeking the perfect harbor for your family, or just looking for a spot where the sun kisses the horizon a little differently, Jacksonville is a port for serious consideration. Your Sunshine State adventure starts now.