By Phil Ganz
Edited by Ryan Skerritt
In 2025, Jacksonville is a growing and exciting city with low costs and a great place to live. Its jobs, beaches, and fun areas brought in 30,000 new people in 2024.
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This guide offers a comprehensive look at what makes Jacksonville a top choice for individuals, families, and retirees alike.
1. Jacksonville's cost of living index is 93, with housing 11% below the national average
Jacksonville offers a cost of living approximately 7% below the national average, making it one of the more affordable major cities in Florida. Housing is a major contributor to this affordability, with an index of 89 and a median home price around $310,000.
Transportation costs are 13% below average, and healthcare is 14% cheaper than the national standard. The city’s affordability is especially attractive to families, young professionals, and retirees seeking a better value in daily expenses.
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2. Jacksonville has a 2025 population of 1,014,382 and spans 747.5 square miles
As of 2025, Jacksonville is home to over 1 million residents, making it Florida’s most populous city. It also spans 747.5 square miles, giving it the largest land area of any city in the contiguous United States.
The city’s growth rate has remained steady, increasing 3.8% from 2020 to 2023. This size and expansion provide diverse neighborhood options and room for continued development.
3. Unemployment is 3.5% in 2024, with job growth led by healthcare, tech, and finance
Jacksonville’s job market remains strong, with an unemployment rate of just 3.5% in 2024—lower than the national average of 3.7%. The city was ranked the #2 hottest job market in the U.S. by the Wall Street Journal.
Key industries include healthcare, finance, logistics, and technology, with projected job growth of up to 45% over the next decade. Employers are actively hiring across sectors, contributing to economic stability and opportunity.
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4. Jacksonville has 22 miles of beaches and over 80,000 acres of parkland
Known as the “City of Parks,” Jacksonville features the largest urban park system in the country, totaling more than 80,000 acres. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy access to 22 miles of Atlantic beaches, the scenic St. Johns River, and over 1,000 miles of navigable waterways.
Major parks like Hanna Park and the Timucuan Preserve offer trails, kayaking, and camping. The climate supports year-round recreation, making nature a central part of daily life.
5. Monthly living costs are $2,364 for singles and up to $5,000 for a family of four
A single adult in Jacksonville can expect to spend about $2,364 per month, including rent, utilities, food, transportation, and healthcare.
Families of four typically spend between $4,800 and $5,000 per month, depending on housing and lifestyle.
These costs remain below national averages thanks to Jacksonville’s lower housing and transportation expenses. The city offers budget-friendly living without sacrificing quality of life.
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6. Jacksonville features the largest urban park system and access to rivers and trails
Jacksonville’s outdoor lifestyle is unmatched, with the largest urban park system in the U.S.—over 80,000 acres across 400+ city, state, and national parks.
Residents enjoy 22 miles of Atlantic coastline and waterways like the St. Johns River and the 40-mile Intracoastal Waterway for boating, fishing, and kayaking.
The 46,000-acre Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve offers trails, wetlands, and historical sites. Popular spots like Hanna Park and the Riverwalk Trail make outdoor recreation accessible citywide.
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7. The job market ranked #2 nationally in 2024 with private sector growth of 4.3%
Jacksonville ranked as the #2 hottest job market in the U.S. for 2024, driven by its strong economic momentum and low unemployment. Private sector jobs grew by 4.3% in 2023, adding nearly 30,000 positions across healthcare, logistics, and tech.
The labor force expanded by 3.8%, showing high demand for talent and opportunity for job seekers. The city’s positive outlook is reinforced by continuous investment and employer growth.
8. Top employers include the Navy (23,000), Duval Schools (20,000), and Mayo Clinic (6,400)
The U.S. Navy is Jacksonville’s largest employer, with over 43,000 personnel between active-duty and civilian workers. Duval County Public Schools and Mayo Clinic follow closely, employing tens of thousands across education and healthcare.
Other major employers include Amazon, Bank of America, Florida Blue, and CSX Corporation. These organizations reflect Jacksonville’s diverse economy spanning defense, healthcare, logistics, finance, and education.
9. The average base salary in Jacksonville is $57,672, slightly above the Florida average
Workers in Jacksonville earn an average base salary of $57,672, based on ZipRecruiter and BLS data.
This figure is higher than Florida’s state average of $56,472 but below the national average of $64,605. When combined with the city’s low cost of living, this salary provides strong purchasing power. Job seekers benefit from competitive wages across a range of industries.
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10. Median home price in 2025 is $310,000, down 4.4% from the previous year
As of early 2025, Jacksonville’s median home price is around $310,000, showing a modest 4.4% year-over-year decline.
Home values range from $173,200 to nearly $2,000,000 depending on location and data source, offering options across budgets.
About 5,600 homes are currently listed, indicating a balanced market for buyers. Jacksonville’s housing affordability continues to be a key draw for new residents.
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11. Julington Creek, Riverside, and Ponte Vedra are top picks for families, pros, and retirees
Families often choose Julington Creek, Nocatee, and Deerwood for their A-rated schools, amenities, and suburban comfort.
Young professionals gravitate toward Downtown, Riverside, and San Marco, drawn by walkability, nightlife, and historic charm.
Retirees favor Ponte Vedra Beach, Atlantic Beach, and Ortega for their coastal views, relaxed pace, and access to healthcare. Each neighborhood offers a distinct lifestyle, from urban energy to peaceful waterfront living.
12. Jacksonville is 2 hours from Orlando, 3.5 from Tampa, and 5.5 from Miami by car
Jacksonville's central location in Northeast Florida provides convenient road access to major cities—Orlando (130 miles), Tampa (250 miles), and Miami (340 miles). Closer destinations include Gainesville (1 hour) and Tallahassee (2 hours), while Atlanta is about 5 hours away.
Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) offers direct flights to cities nationwide. Amtrak and Greyhound also serve the area, adding flexible transportation options for residents and travelers.
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13. Average commute is 25 minutes, with limited public transit and car-dependence
Jacksonville’s average commute time is about 25 minutes, slightly shorter than the national average. While the Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) operates bus routes, ferries, and the downtown Skyway monorail, most residents rely on personal vehicles due to the city’s large size.
Traffic congestion is moderate but can spike around key areas like the Buckman Bridge. Walkable neighborhoods exist, but Jacksonville remains largely car-dependent.
14. Duval County has 200+ public schools and top-rated options like Stanton Prep (#5 in FL)
The Duval County Public Schools system includes over 200 schools and is one of Jacksonville’s largest employers. Top-performing public schools include Stanton College Preparatory School, ranked #5 in Florida, and Paxon School for Advanced Studies.
Private institutions like The Bolles School and Episcopal School of Jacksonville offer additional options. Many neighborhoods are shaped by school zones, making education a key factor in relocation decisions for families.
15. UNF, JU, FSCJ, and Edward Waters University anchor higher education in the city
Jacksonville is home to several respected colleges and universities. The University of North Florida (UNF) is known for its business, health, and education programs, while Jacksonville University (JU) excels in nursing, marine science, and the arts.
Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) offers affordable associate degrees and workforce training. Edward Waters University, a historic HBCU, provides liberal arts programs and community engagement. These institutions contribute to the city’s educated workforce and cultural life.
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16. Over 1,500 restaurants serve everything from biscuits and seafood to Indian cuisine
Jacksonville’s culinary scene is diverse, with over 1,500 restaurants offering everything from casual bites to upscale dining. Popular local spots include Maple Street Biscuit Company, known for its Southern breakfasts, and The Local, offering fresh farm-to-table options.
International cuisine is widely available, including standout Indian, Mexican, Italian, and Vietnamese restaurants. Food festivals like the Jacksonville BBQ Fest and Taco & Tequila Festival highlight the city’s love of bold, creative flavors.
17. Downtown and the beaches host live music, clubs, theaters, and comedy venues
Jacksonville’s nightlife caters to all tastes, from laid-back beach bars to high-energy clubs. Downtown venues like The Elbow and 1904 Music Hall offer live music, while The Florida Theatre and Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts host concerts, Broadway shows, and comedy acts.
Seawalk Pavilion at Jacksonville Beach features seasonal outdoor events and music festivals. Comedy lovers can catch a show at First Coast Comedy or The Comedy Zone.
18. Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, and Ponte Vedra Beach are all within 15–40 minutes
Beach access is easy from most parts of the city, with Jacksonville Beach just 15–20 minutes from downtown. Neptune and Atlantic Beaches offer a more relaxed, local vibe with boutique shopping and beachside dining.
Ponte Vedra Beach features luxury living and is home to the world-renowned TPC Sawgrass golf course. Further north, Amelia Island and Boneyard Beach provide scenic getaways with unique natural beauty and driftwood-covered shores.
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19. Summer highs reach 92°F and winters dip to 46°F, with 52 inches of annual rainfall
Jacksonville enjoys a humid subtropical climate with long, warm summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures often reach the low 90s°F, while winter lows average around 46°F.
The area sees about 52 inches of rain annually, mostly from June through September during the rainy season. With up to 270 sunny days per year, residents can enjoy outdoor activities nearly year-round.
20. Key sites include Kingsley Plantation, Fort Caroline, and the Florida Theatre
Jacksonville has deep historical roots dating back to the Timucua people and early French colonists. Fort Caroline, established in 1564, is one of the oldest European settlements in the U.S. Kingsley Plantation, Florida’s oldest plantation house, offers insights into 19th-century life and slavery.
Landmarks like the Florida Theatre, Friendship Fountain, and the USS Orleck Naval Museum highlight the city’s 20th-century heritage and cultural evolution.
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21. Jacksonville draws retirees with no state income tax, low housing costs, and Mayo Clinic
Jacksonville is a popular destination for retirees due to its mild winters, year-round sunshine, and affordable lifestyle. Housing costs are lower than the national average, and Florida’s lack of state income tax helps retirees stretch their budgets further.
Access to world-class healthcare, including the Mayo Clinic and Baptist Health, enhances its retirement appeal. While specific 55+ communities aren't detailed here, the area offers many options for independent and assisted living.
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22. Duval County’s property tax rate is 0.92%, with homestead exemptions for seniors
Jacksonville residents benefit from Florida’s absence of a state income tax, keeping more money in their pockets. Duval County’s property tax rate is a modest 0.92%, and the state has no estate or inheritance taxes.
Seniors may also qualify for homestead exemptions that further reduce tax burdens. Combined, these financial benefits make Jacksonville a cost-effective place to live, save, and retire.
23. Jacksonville has 70+ golf courses including TPC Sawgrass and PGA Tour headquarters
With over 70 public and private golf courses, Jacksonville is a golfer’s paradise. TPC Sawgrass in nearby Ponte Vedra Beach hosts The Players Championship and serves as the PGA Tour’s headquarters.
Other popular courses include Queen’s Harbour, Blue Sky, and the Jacksonville Beach Golf Club. The area also supports a wide range of outdoor recreation—from surfing and biking to kayaking and hiking—all year long.
24. Nicknames like “River City” and “Bold New City” reflect Jacksonville’s scale and identity
Jacksonville’s identity is shaped by its geography, size, and history, earning it nicknames like “The River City,” “City of Parks,” and “Bold New City of the South.” Its consolidated city-county government, massive land area, and vibrant St. Johns River make it unique among U.S. cities.
Residents often describe it as a “large small town” due to its neighborhood feel and community pride. The average resident is just 36 years old, making it Florida’s youngest major city demographically.
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25. In 2025, Jacksonville stands out for affordability, job opportunities, and coastal lifestyle
Jacksonville offers a rare mix of affordability, job opportunity, and coastal lifestyle in 2025. It combines a thriving job market, low cost of living, and access to top schools, healthcare, and recreation.
Unlike other Florida cities, it features 22 miles of beach, the nation’s largest urban park system, and a slower pace with fewer tourists.
With its size, diversity, and unique charm, Jacksonville stands out as a smart choice for individuals, families, and retirees alike.
With over 50 years of mortgage industry experience, we are here to help you achieve the American dream of owning a home. We strive to provide the best education before, during, and after you buy a home. Our advice is based on experience with Phil Ganz and Team closing over One billion dollars and helping countless families.
About Author - Phil Ganz
Phil Ganz has over 20+ years of experience in the residential financing space. With over a billion dollars of funded loans, Phil helps homebuyers configure the perfect mortgage plan. Whether it's your first home, a complex multiple-property purchase, or anything in between, Phil has the experience to help you achieve your goals.
About Editor - Ryan Skerritt
Ryan Skerritt has over 10+ years of experience in the residential financing space. With over two hundred and fifty million of funded loan volume, Ryan has the skill set to help any homebuyer configure the perfect mortgage plan.
