Life in Jacksonville
Jacksonville is the largest city in Florida by both land and population. With 16 miles of pristine coastline, Jacksonville is ranked among the best places to live in the state and the country. Residents enjoy year-round sunshine, warm weather, and fun activities like the Jax Beach music festivals and plenty of top-notch golf courses. This beachside oasis is also an incredible destination for outdoor activities such as swimming, boating, paddle boarding, fishing, and much more. Jacksonville also provides residents with big-city amenities along with a small-town feel. Downtown Jacksonville is a bustling area with museums, restaurants, and entertainment. However, the city also has a laid-back, small-town vibe despite being the largest city in Florida.
Mild Year-Round Weather
If you enjoy year-round warmth and plenty of sunshine, Jacksonville is just the place for you. The summer temperatures can get hot, with temperatures close to 90 degrees, but the average temperatures throughout the rest of the year range between the upper 60s to lower 80s. That makes it easy to get out and enjoy the numerous outdoor activities in the area. June through September are the wettest months of the year, and this is also hurricane season, but Jacksonville is far enough inland that it rarely gets hit by these storms. Overall, the area enjoys very pleasant weather for most of the year.
Cost of Living in Jacksonville
If you are moving to Jacksonville from another major city, you will likely be pleasantly surprised at the affordability. The cost of housing in Jacksonville is 6% below the national average, which is why more than half of residents own homes. The average home value for a Jacksonville home is around $295,000 white it's nearly $550,000 in Miami. The average monthly rent in Jacksonville is about $1500 compared to $2450 in Miami. Even though it’s a bustling metropolis, you can purchase a spacious home within walking distance of the beach for a decent price. Furthermore, as a Florida resident, you will appreciate not having to pay a state income tax. This means more money in your pocket.
Jacksonville Job Market
Jacksonville has a strong job market and an unemployment rate of just 2.7%. Some of the top industries in the area include healthcare, manufacturing, professional services, education, and retail. The largest employers in the area are the Naval Air Station, Duval County Schools, Jacksonville City Government, and Baptist Health. In addition, Jacksonville plays a large role in Florida’s banking industry, especially as more and more financial institutions continue to relocate their headquarters from high-cost areas like New York to cheaper places like Florida. Jacksonville is home to a number of major banking, insurance, and financial institutions, including Fidelity National Financial and FIS, among others.
Where to Live in Jacksonville
With miles of beaches, ample parks, and great schools, there are plenty of great neighborhoods to choose from in the Jacksonville area. Here are some exciting neighborhoods to explore in the Jacksonville area.
Avondale: This charming and historic neighborhood is one of the most desirable places to live in Jacksonville. Known for its tree-lined streets and cozy bungalows, Avondale is ranked one of the top neighborhoods in the entire country! It’s close to cultural attractions and recreation, which allow for a lively arts scene and exciting nightlife. It also features luxurious riverfront homes as well as several parks and waterfront access.
Riverside: Located near Avondale, Riverside is a central location, which makes it easy to get around the city. This historic neighborhood is also one of the liveliest in Jacksonville, packed with restaurants, businesses, and local shops. The area also features waterfront homes, community parks, and spectacular views.
San Marco: Located just south of downtown is the Mediterranean-inspired neighborhood of San Marco. The neighborhood square is inspired by the architecture of Venice, with its fountains, art galleries, and bistros. You will also find upscale shopping, dining, and parks in the area, making San Marco one of the most desirable places to live in Jacksonville.
Jacksonville Beach: Jacksonville Beach is the most sought-after beachfront neighborhood in the city. Residents enjoy sunbathing, fishing, surfing, and other water and sports activities.
Deerwood: Deerwood is one of the most affluent neighborhoods in the city, known for its luxury homes, golf courses, and swimming pools. The area also has its own private schools, making it a popular choice for families with children.
Top-Rated Schools
For those moving with children, Jacksonville offers one of the best school districts in the state of Florida. There are dozens of excellent schools to choose from, and two of the city’s public high schools consistently rank among the highest-performing in the country. There are also a number of high-ranking private schools in the area, providing several excellent options for families.
So Much To Do
Whether you prefer spending time outdoors enjoying the beaches, water sports, and golf or you prefer arts, culture, and entertainment, there is no shortage of things to do in Jacksonville. Jacksonville boasts 22 miles of beaches that are perfect for sunbathing, surfing, kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming, boating, and fishing. Jacksonville is also a major golf destination, with 70 courses throughout the area. Furthermore, the city hosts major festivals that attract thousands of visitors, such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival. There are also art walks, museums, professional sporting events, and family attractions like the Jacksonville Zoo and the Arboretum and Botanical Gardens.
Ready to Move to Jacksonville? Allied Van Lines Can Help
From the beautiful beaches and exciting entertainment to the strong economy and affordable cost of living, Jacksonville is a desirable location for young professionals, families, and retirees alike. If you are ready to make the move to Jacksonville, let the professionals at Allied Van Lines assist you with your relocation. With over 95 years of experience, we know exactly what it takes to plan and execute a seamless move. Allied offers a comprehensive list of moving services to fit any budget, so call today or start by getting a free quote using their convenient Instaquote tool.