The Best Places To Live in Jacksonville Florida
There is something magical about a place that gets perfect weather 90% of the year, where the beaches are picturesque, and the people are humble and kind. Florida is one of those places. Unsurprisingly, so many people are finding their way to Jacksonville as their new home. We will share the best places to live in Jacksonville Florida.
This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure and privacy policy for more information.
According to World Population Review, approximately 31,000 people moved to Jacksonville between 2018 and 2021, an average of 84 people moving to this thriving beach town daily. People moving from other states often find the logistics of moving challenging, but with car shipping options available to carry your vehicles, moving to Jacksonville is easier than ever.
Homesick for Jacksonville, Florida
There’s an interesting phenomenon that happens to some people. The experience of Fernwah is feeling – an attraction to a place you’ve never been; however, after you visit that place, if you still feel drawn to that location in your heart, it’s often called a “Soul Home.” For thousands of people every year, Jacksonville becomes their Soul Home.
Whether it’s the nightlife, the community, the stunning beaches, and the gorgeous weather, Jacksonville delivers more than people expect. The monthly cost of living in Jacksonville is about $3,800, and the average single-family home runs around $202,000. It’s a mecca for remote workers because when your work can be done from anywhere, you have much more freedom to move about and explore the city around you.
Jax. It’s Easier Here
Jacksonville has been through a few different mottos, trying to find the right one for the feel of the town. This city is known for the humble attitudes of its residents and the ease of access to recreational activities for those from all walks of life.
In 2020, Jacksonville launched a new motto to welcome families and tourists to the area and showcase its accessibility. “Jax. It’s Easier Here”. Locals received this motto with mixed reviews.
Proximity To The City’s Many Amenities
Downtown Jacksonville offers a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops, as well as entertainment venues and a thriving nightlife. The beaches are also a big draw for many residents, and several neighborhoods offer easy access to the water. The reliance on St. Johns River means that you can find fresh seafood from either side of the city, and there is plenty of options for recreational watersports.
Quality Of The Schools In The Area
Jacksonville is a great place to raise a family. Jacksonville has excellent public and private schools in the area. There are several top-rated schools, so families can find the perfect fit for their children. In addition, Jacksonville is home to many colleges and universities, making it an excellent place for young adults to continue their education.
The city also offers a variety of recreational activities and parks, making it a great place to live an active lifestyle. With so much to offer, it’s no wonder Jacksonville is such a popular choice for families, too.
Safety
Safety is always an important consideration when choosing a place to live. Fortunately, Jacksonville is a relatively safe city with low crime rates and a relatively low cost of living. These factors make Jacksonville an excellent place to call home.
Best Places To Live in Jacksonville, Florida
Atlantic Beach
Atlantic Beach is technically not part of Jacksonville but is a very close neighbor. To locals, the Atlantic Beach neighborhood is just a fancy subdivision known for its easy access to the water. In 2020, the population was 13,513 residents, a nearly 7% increase from the previous census. This community’s age range and racial diversity are notable and create a feeling of community and partnership.
Ponte Vedra Beach
Ponte Vedra Beach is a beautiful place to live. It’s located on the First Coast of Florida, known for its white sand beaches and clear blue waters. It’s a great place to raise a family, too. The area has excellent schools and plenty of kids’ activities to keep your little ones busy. You’ll never get bored living in Ponte Vedra Beach! There’s always something to do, whether enjoying the beach or exploring the town. See why Ponte Vedra Beach is such a wonderful place to call home. If you are into boating or the beach, Ponte Verda Beach is one of the best places to live in Jacksonville, Florida.
Riverside
Riverside is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Jacksonville, Florida. It’s considered by many to be one of the best places to live in Jacksonville, Florida. It’s home to many families and young professionals and known for its lively nightlife. There are plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from, and you can always find something to do. The neighborhood is also convenient to Downtown Jacksonville and the St. Johns River. Riverside is a perfect choice if you’re looking for a place to live where you can always find something to do.
San Marco
San Marco is a beautiful neighborhood in Jacksonville, Florida. It’s known for its lovely restaurants, shops, and stunning homes. If you’re searching for a place to live with tons of personality, San Marco is the perfect place for you. The residents here are friendly and welcoming, and there’s always something to do. From exploring the local shops to stroll through one of the many parks, you’ll never find yourself bored in San Marco. If you’re looking for a neighborhood with it all, check out San Marco. You won’t be disappointed!
Avondale
Avondale is a historic neighborhood in Jacksonville, Florida. Established in the late 1800s as a residential suburb, Avondale is known for its brick streets and Victorian-style homes. The neighborhood has been revitalized in recent years, with many of its historic buildings restored to their original glory. Today, Avondale is a popular place to live, work, and play, with a thriving business district and a calendar full of events and activities.
Mandarin
Mandarin is a neighborhood in Jacksonville, Florida, known for its restaurants and shops. It’s also full of beautiful homes, making it a great place to live. The area has a rich history, dating back to the 1800s when farmers settled it. These days, Mandarin is a thriving community with something for everyone. Mandarin is perfect whether you’re looking for a place to eat, shop, or enjoy scenic views.
Deerwood
Deerwood is a neighborhood in Jacksonville, Florida, known for its restaurants, shops, and beautiful homes. If you’re looking for a place to live that’s full of character, Deerwood is the place for you. The neighborhood has various housing options, from apartments and condos to single-family homes. There are also plenty of things to do in Deerwood, from exploring the local shops and restaurants to walking through the park. And if you’re looking for a place to live that’s close to all the action, Deerwood is just a short drive away from downtown Jacksonville.
Southside
Southside is a neighborhood located in the southernmost part of Jacksonville, Florida. The St. Johns River borders it to the west, Baymeadows Road to the north, and Hodges Boulevard to the east. The area is known for its restaurants, shops, and beautiful homes. Many residents are drawn to the neighborhood for its community and small-town feel. The location is also home to several parks and recreation areas, making it a great place to live for people who enjoy spending time outdoors. Whether you’re looking for a place to call home or a place to visit, Southside is sure to have something that will appeal to you.
Westside
Westside is a historic neighborhood located in Jacksonville, Florida. The area is known for its dining, shopping, and beautiful homes. Westside is a convenient place to live, with easy access to Downtown Jacksonville and the beaches. The neighborhood has several parks, including Dutton Island Preserve and Magnolia Point Golf & Country Club. Westside is a perfect choice if you’re looking for a place to call home that is full of character.
Arlington
Arlington is the place for you if you’re looking for a neighborhood with character. This historic neighborhood in Jacksonville, Florida, is known for its beautiful homes, great restaurants, and shops. Arlington is also conveniently located, making it one of the best places to live in Jacksonville, Florida. Arlington is sure to please whether you’re looking for a place to live or visit. See what this unique neighborhood has to offer!
Tips For Moving To Jacksonville, Florida
When your heart has chosen a place to call Soul Home, it’s time to start planning your move.
1. Find a Reputable Moving Company and Get Estimates from at Least Three of Them
Moving to a new state is a big decision, and there’s much to consider. One of the most important things to consider is finding a reputable moving company to help you transition. Getting estimates from multiple companies is an excellent way to ensure you get the best possible price. But the price isn’t the only factor to consider.
You’ll also want to read online reviews and talk to friends and family to get recommendations. Once you’ve narrowed down your options, ask each company for references that you can call. This way, you can get first-hand accounts of what it’s like to work with them. With some research, you can find a moving company to help make your move go smoothly.
2. Start Packing Early to Avoid the Last Minute Rush
One of the most important things to do is start packing early. This may seem like a daunting task, but it’s surprisingly easy to get started. The first step is to list everything you need to pack.
Once you have a list, start setting aside items you won’t need in the immediate future. This will help to declutter your home and make packing easier. As you get closer to the move date, gradually pack up your belongings.
This will help avoid the last-minute rush and ensure everything is packed securely. Packing for a move can be surprisingly simple with little planning and effort.
3. Label Boxes Clearly with Special Notes of Where they go in the Home, Care, or Contents (e.g., “fragile”)
Moving is exciting, especially when you’re moving to Jacksonville. It’s important to be well-organized to make sure the transition goes smoothly. One way to do this is to label all your boxes with the name of the room they belong in and any actual contents.
For example, you might label a box “Kitchen- pots and pans” or “Bedroom- fragile items.” This will help you unpack more quickly and efficiently. Additionally, it will prevent you from searching through all your boxes for a specific item. Your future self will thank you for the extra time and effort you put in upfront so that the transition is smooth once you make it into your new home.
4. Record and Contact Utility Companies for the Old Home and the New Home
Moving is always a lot of work, but there are some things you can do to make it a little easier on yourself. One of those things is ensuring your utilities are squared away – either transferred to your new address or disconnected at your old one. You’ll need a list of all your utilities and their contact information to do that.
Having all this information in one place will eliminate much scrambling for yourself. Once you’re ready to make the switches, you will have all the info you need in one place and can focus better on the phone. A pro tip: always negotiate on your utilities for the best rates! You’ll be surprised how many discounts you can get when asking for them.
5. Ship Your Car Separately to Avoid Extra Wear and Tear and the Logistics of Extra Drivers
Moving to a new state can be stressful, and many things can be considered. One of the big decisions you’ll need to make is how to transport your car. Driving it yourself is usually the cheapest option, but it’s not always practical, especially if you’re moving cross-country.
Shipping your car is a great alternative, and there are a few different ways. The most popular option is an enclosed trailer, which offers the best protection from the elements. Open trailers are also an option but are not as safe or secure. Another consideration is whether you want to ship your car independently or with other household items.
If you’re pressed for time or shipping a precious vehicle, it’s probably best to send it alone. But shipping your car with other belongings can be an excellent option to save money. Whichever way you ship your vehicle, be sure to research and make all the necessary arrangements in advance. That way, you can relax and enjoy the ride to your new home.
6. A Place for Everything and Everything in its Place
Moving to a new state can be a big adjustment, but there are some things you can do to make the transition a little easier. One of the most important things is to set up your new home before moving all your belongings in. This way, you’ll have a place to put everything, and you won’t have to worry about unpacking while settling into your new surroundings.
Ensure you have all the essentials, like utilities and furniture, and then you can bring over boxes of clothes and other items. It may seem like a lot of work upfront, but it’ll be worth it when you’re not overwhelmed after the move.
Closing Thoughts
Ultimately, where you move is between you, your soul, and your heart. Jacksonville is a special place for thousands of residents, snowbirds, and college students. Choosing your destination and how you’ll get there is just part of the process. If you decide on Jacksonville, Florida, you now know the best places to live in Jacksonville, Florida – and why!
Looking For More Florida Travel, Start Here?
- Bartow, Florida – A Sleepy Town Making a Comeback
- Disney World Resorts on A Dime
- Sun Studio – The Birth Place of Rock & Roll
- The Howey Mansion – Florida
- The Paisley Park Tour – Prince’s Former Home
- The Wonder House – Bartow, Florida
We participate in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
Brit On The Move™ Travel Resources
Ready to book your next trip? Use these resources that work:
Was the flight canceled or delayed? Find out if you are eligible for compensation with AirHelp.
- Book your Hotel: Find the best prices; use Booking.com
- Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the best prices on apartment rentals with Booking.com’s Apartment Finder.
- Travel Insurance: Don’t leave home without it. View our suggestions to help you decide which travel insurance is for you: Travel Insurance Guide.
- Want to earn tons of points and make your next trip accessible? Check out our recommendations for Travel Credit Cards.
- Want To Take A Volunteer Vacation or a Working Holiday? Check out the complete guide to how here!
- Want to Shop For Travel Accessories? Check out our Travel Shop.
Need more help planning your trip? Visit our Resources Page, which highlights the great companies we use for traveling.
Fantastic read! Your insights are spot-on, and the way you articulate complex ideas is impressive. Eagerly awaiting your next post!”