Are you interested in living in Jacksonville, Florida? But what exactly do you expect from this US State? You know the general information. It is located in the country’s southeast, surrounded by the Mexican Gulf and Atlantic Ocean. In the north, it has a land border with Alabama and Georgia.
It has a constant flow of new residents, is economically very strong, sport is its trademark, and its Universities are known and appreciated worldwide.
However, when you see this Southern beauty in person, lit by the Sun and surrounded by all shades of sea blue, you will understand why they call it the “Sunshine State.”
Its cities are large and famous. Miami, Tampa, Orlando, Fort Lauderdale..But the biggest of all is Jacksonville, for friends Jax.
Not only is it vast in area, but it has close to 1,000,000 inhabitants. The center is Duval County, located in northeastern Florida, 298 miles away from the border with Georgia.
If you are wondering if Jacksonville is nice, see for yourself. The skyline itself will tell you everything. Jax impresses with her beauty, and don’t be surprised if it’s “love at first sight.”
Population
Jacksonville currently has a population of approximately 950,300. The city is constantly and rapidly growing, and new residents are conquering their space. A multicultural population, primarily middle class, lives here.
Given its rich history, from the Timucuan Indians to the French Huguenots and Spanish, the mixture of nations and cultures persists to this day. White Americans, African Americans, Hispanic Americans, Asians, and the LBGT population—all will find their home here and wish you a warm welcome together.
Taxes
Several US States are exempt from paying individual income tax, Florida being one of them. This benefit makes life easier and lowers costs for Florida residents. However, you will have to pay a 6% state sales tax and a 7% local tax rate but still, that makes life in Jacksonville, FL very comfy.
Housing
Jacksonville was developed and built on both sides of the St. John River. Also, it has access to the Atlantic Ocean, so different parts of the city are on offer, where you can find a place to live, according to your taste and possibilities.
Choose between the Downtown core, next to the river, where the urban vibe dominates. Or available for one of the specific neighborhoods: Arlington, San Marco, Springfield, Ortega, or Murray Hills. The Beaches&Waterways neighborhood, right on the coast, is unique and wonderful. This neighborhood proves that Jax has more waterfront than any other city.
As for housing prices, life in Jacksonville, FL, will cost you moderately compared to other cities in Florida. Many residents are homeowners, about 57%.
You can find a modest house on the outskirts for $150,000. In a better neighborhood and a better house, you will pay between $300,000 – $450,000. The average price for a decent home is around $240,000.
There is an offer from more luxurious houses and neighborhoods of between $855,000 and $950,000. For a charming condo with all amenities, one bedroom, and one bathroom in a good neighborhood, you will spend about $129,000.
The average monthly rent for a house is about $1,300, and for an apartment, it is about $750. The population believes that the quality of homes is good or excellent, and the prices are 15% lower than the national average, which makes them very affordable.
Cost of living
Jax is very affordable when it comes to general living expenses. It even belongs to the category of cheaper cities. It is 5% cheaper than the national average and 7% cheaper than the national average. Hosung is 10% cheaper than the national average, which is very competitive.
An average annual salary of nearly $65,000 is enough to live comfortably. Rent per month and market rates account for 30% of income. Other expenses are 7% utilities, 8.8% transportation, clothing and shoes, sports and leisure, and restaurants. Health care is close to other cities in Florida. Doctors and dentists charge around $100 per visit, which is in the national range.
Schools
It is a general opinion and grade that the schools in Jacksonville are excellent and deserve the highest grade, A and some even A+. An impressive number of 212 public and 188 private schools speak about how much Jacksonville is involved in education. The awareness of education as the most important future resource made everything possible. Good organization and professional teachers raise the level of local schools. Some of them are:
Public Schools:
- Stanton College Preparatory
- Paxon School for Advanced Studies
- River City Science Academy Middle – High School
- Creekside High School
- Darnell Cookman Middle/High School
Private Schools:
- The Bolles School
- St. Johns Country Day School
- Providence School
Don’t forget Jacksonville University, founded in 1934 and highly ranked in the USA. It enables the study of health professions, business, management, marketing, biological and biomedical sciences, marine science, engineering, visual and performing arts, and social sciences.
Health Care
Jacksonville is at the top of the chart in terms of healthcare. Some of the local hospitals are the most famous in the world. Considering the size of the city, the flow of tourists, and the number of residents, healthcare is one of the crucial sectors. We will mention a few:
- Mayo Clinic Jacksonville: Mayo Clinic’s reputation should not be overstated. The one in Jacksonville is considered the best in the country. It treats 120,000 patients every year. All medical specialist services are provided, and there are 9,200 employees. It also has a scientific and research department, which can boast numerous medical achievements and innovations.
Jacksonville Health Center is a nursing home, but it is not the only one, given the number of retirees who have settled here.
- Duval County Health Department is a center for women and children
- University of Florida Health
- Jacksonville Medical Care
These are just some of Jacksonville’s many public and private medical clinics and centers.
Job Market
Unemployment in Jacksonville is 3.2 percent. The job market is considered active and one of the best in the country. According to The Wall Street Journal, it is the second-hottest job market in the state. Various jobs are offered.
Medical Centers are always looking for professional and support staff. All types of bank operators are wanted, followed by administrative assistants and workers in tourism, marketing, childcare, etc.
Florida’s economy is strong — the fourth largest in the state. It is growing constantly and is called a “jumbo jet economy.” Even greater growth is expected in the coming period.
There are various business offers. Some are permanently open, and some are current. If you are interested in the sales director, physician—primary care, territory business manager, project manager, chief engineer, or dentist position, we are currently looking for candidates.
Crime rate
Would any potential resident think about it? Is Jacksonville safe? In a city of almost a million inhabitants, of course, there are various types of criminal incidents. It would be unrealistic to expect that there are none at all.
However, when the statistical data is analyzed more deeply, we will see that theft is the most prevalent criminality. This criminality is not represented in a significant percentage.
53% of the population believes they live in a very safe city and can move freely wherever they want. The police presence is assessed as visible and constant, so citizens have no major complaints. This also implies personal responsibility for one’s own safety and avoiding risks of any kind.
Things to Do
Jax is a real treasure trove of interesting and exciting things you can visit and enjoy. Some of them are:
Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park: If you are an adventurer and a sporty type, you have 20 miles of the best enjoyment in nature and outdoor activities. There are hiking and biking trails, kayaking, fishing, paddle boarding, surfing, and more.
- Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary – A ranch where Big cats are kept and rescued from a cruel life and inhumane treatment. They are provided with all comfort, and volunteers care passionately for them.
- Cummer Museum Arts&Gardens: museum and garden of the European concept. Opened in 1958. It has over 5,000 art artifacts. An exceptional collection of sl A place created for subtle art lovers.
- Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens: one of the most famous Zoo gardens in the State. Full of all kinds of exotic animals and birds, rich in greenery, ponds, and fountains. It is associated with animals’ natural habitat and offers a complete impression during the tour.
- St. Johns Town Center: the city’s heart, with many restaurants, bars, shopping centers, and exclusive stores. Here, you can shop until you’re exhausted, try fresh seafood, go to the Capital Grille, and enjoy the legendary cheesecake at the Cheesecake Factory.
- Riverwalk: Strolling without a destination guarantees relaxation and enjoyment in this wonderfully arranged setlist. 1.2 miles of modern, illuminated promenade with benches are at your disposal. It is positioned along the St. Johns River and close to numerous bars, restaurants, cafes, shops, galleries…
Conclusion
You got acquainted with this legendary American city’s most important aspects of life. You have probably formed an opinion and no longer wonder if Jacksonville is an excellent place to live.
For those who like life in a big city but are surrounded by nature, Jacksonville will be an excellent choice. Favorable prices, a large offer of everything you need, and the possibility of finding a well-paid job will surely encourage you to live there.
Multicultural community, with friendly behavior, oriented towards joint work for the general welfare.
Imagine yourself in a city that constantly pulsates and flows, where events are nonstop, and that offers work as well as entertainment.
Also, imagine your free time spent on the ocean shore, on endless sandy beaches. When you get tired of that, the river, nature reserves, and continental landscapes are in your neighborhood.
If you can’t resist all that and choose Jacksonville as your new home, our Jacksonville movers are ready to make that happen!