Moving to Jacksonville, FL? 10 Things You Need to Know
So, you’re thinking about moving to Jacksonville, FL? Great choice! As the largest city by land area in the contiguous U.S., Jacksonville, or "JAX," as locals call it, is a fast-growing destination that offers a unique mix of bustling city life and serene natural beauty. Its appeal draws in students, professionals, and retirees, who come for the opportunities and stay for the lifestyle. This guide will walk you through the essential things to know before you relocate.
Start your journey by exploring the perfect home base at Momentum Blanding. Call us today at (904) 531-4881 to learn more!
Key Takeaways
- Jacksonville offers a reasonable cost of living, often below the national average, making it an attractive option in Florida.
- The city is home to miles of beautiful beaches, extensive city parks like the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve, and the scenic St. Johns River.
- Diverse neighborhoods in Jacksonville, from historic San Marco to the energetic Beaches, offer a lifestyle for everyone.
- The job market is robust, with major employers and opportunities in various sectors, supported by world-class institutions like the Mayo Clinic.
- Momentum Blanding provides a central and comfortable living experience with premium amenities to enjoy everything Jacksonville has to offer.
1. A Surprisingly Affordable Cost of Living
One of the biggest draws for those considering moving to Jacksonville is the low cost of living. Compared to other major cities in Florida, like Miami, JAX is remarkably budget-friendly. The overall cost of living in Jacksonville is about 8% below the U.S. national average, which can make a huge difference in your monthly budget.
Breaking it down, housing in Jacksonville is a significant factor, coming in at 15% below the national average. Utilities are also more affordable, sitting around 10% lower than what most of the country pays. This means your money goes further here, allowing you to enjoy more of what the city provides. If you're searching for the perfect housing solution without sacrificing quality, check out the floor plans at Momentum Blanding.
2. Sprawling Neighborhoods with Unique Vibes
Jacksonville is a city of neighborhoods, each with its own distinct personality! With Momentum Living's prime locations, you're always near the heart of it all, making it easy to explore and enjoy the very best of these great communities.
San Marco
Just south of downtown, San Marco is known for its Mediterranean-inspired architecture, boutique shops, and an artsy, upscale feel. The central square, with its iconic Lion's Head Fountain, is a hub for dining and entertainment.
Riverside and Avondale
These adjacent historic neighborhoods are hip and full of character. You'll find a fantastic mix of craft breweries, independent restaurants, and beautiful parks along the river. It's also home to the renowned Cummer Museum of Art!
The Beaches
If a laid-back, surf-centric lifestyle is what you crave, the beaches are here for you! Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, and Atlantic Beach each offer a unique, walkable coastal vibe with plenty of shops, bars, and, of course, sandy shores.
Westside Jacksonville
This large residential area is where you'll find Momentum Blanding. It offers incredible convenience, with easy access to major highways like I-295 and Blanding Boulevard, connecting you to the entire city while providing a comfortable suburban atmosphere. Our community is nestled in a prime Jacksonville neighborhood that puts you close to everything.
Love to walk? You can explore each area on Walk Score!
3. Year-Round Sunshine and Miles of Beaches
It wouldn't be Florida without great weather, and Jacksonville delivers.
You can expect hot, sunny summers with highs around 90°F, perfect for hitting the water. Winters are mild and pleasant, with average highs in the 60s, meaning you can enjoy the outdoors year-round.
From almost anywhere in the city, you're just a short drive from the coast. The beautiful beaches of Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, and Atlantic Beach are local treasures. From Momentum Blanding, it’s about a 40-50 minute drive, making weekend trips to the beach a breeze.
4. A Hub for Education and Healthcare
Jacksonville is a major center for both higher education and world-class healthcare. The city is home to several prominent institutions, including the University of North Florida, Jacksonville University, and Florida State College at Jacksonville.
This creates a vibrant, youthful energy and provides excellent educational opportunities. On the healthcare front, Jacksonville is anchored by the world-renowned Mayo Clinic, making it a destination for top-tier medical care and a major employer in the region!
5. Getting Around the City
Given that Jacksonville covers over 840 square miles, having a car is generally recommended to get around the city.
The sheer size means that destinations can be spread out, but a well-maintained highway system, including the I-295 beltway, makes navigating the area straightforward. Momentum Blanding's location on Blanding Blvd provides residents with direct access to these major routes!
For those who prefer not to drive, the Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) offers public transportation services, including a comprehensive bus network and the Jacksonville Skyway, an automated monorail that provides great views of Downtown Jacksonville. You can plan your trip on the official JTA website.
6. Endless Things to Do: Parks, Arts, and Culture
Life in Jacksonville is never dull. The city holds the title of having the largest urban park system in the nation, offering endless opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Outdoor Activities
- Explore the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens with its award-winning exhibits.
- Hike or kayak through the vast Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve.
- Enjoy the St. Johns River, which offers miles of navigable water for boating, fishing, and watersports.
Arts and Music
- Admire the collections at the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens, situated on the riverfront.
- Experience the lively sounds of the annual Jacksonville Jazz Festival, one of the largest free jazz festivals in the country.
7. A Major League City
Jacksonville is a city that loves its sports. The local fan base is passionate, and game days are an electric experience. JAX is home to the NFL's Jacksonville Jaguars, who play at EverBank Stadium in the heart of downtown. In the spring and summer, you can catch a Minor League Baseball game with the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp, whose family-friendly atmosphere makes for a perfect evening out.
8. Find Your Perfect Home at Momentum Blanding
Living at Momentum Blanding allows you to experience the best of life in Jacksonville with a comfortable and stylish home base. After a hot Florida day, cool off in our resort-style pool. Our modern kitchens, complete with stainless steel appliances and granite countertops, are perfect for cooking a meal after visiting a local farmers' market. You can also stay active in our state-of-the-art fitness center or unwind in our inviting resident lounge. Explore our full list of community and apartment amenities to see what’s waiting for you.
Don't just take our word for it - take a virtual tour of your future home!
FAQs: Answering Your Questions About Moving to Jacksonville
Is it worth moving to Jacksonville, FL?
Yes, for many people, it is. Jacksonville offers a low cost of living compared to other Florida cities, a strong job market, beautiful nature, and a wide range of activities, making it a great value for students, professionals, and families.
What is Jacksonville, Florida, most known for?
Jacksonville is most known for being the largest city by land area in the contiguous U.S., its extensive park system (the largest urban park system in the nation), miles of beautiful beaches, and being home to the NFL's Jacksonville Jaguars.
What is the most walkable part of Jacksonville?
Neighborhoods like San Marco, Riverside, Avondale, and Jacksonville Beach are considered the most walkable parts of Jacksonville, offering a high concentration of shops, dining options, and parks.
What is special about Jacksonville, FL?
What's special is its unique combination of big-city amenities and vast natural landscapes. You can enjoy Downtown Jacksonville culture, major sporting events, and then quickly escape to the serene Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve or the Atlantic Beach coastline.
Ready to Make the Move to Jacksonville?
Relocating to Jacksonville means choosing a city with a rich culture, a growing economy, and an unbeatable lifestyle. It truly offers something for everyone, from the sun-soaked beaches to the charming historic districts. Let Momentum Blanding be the first step in your exciting new chapter.
Contact us today to schedule a tour and see why our residents love to call Jacksonville home! And, for more official city information and resources, visit the City of Jacksonville's official website.
