Best 16 Neighborhoods in Jacksonville, FL

If you’re looking for a sunny, laid-back place to call home, look no further than Jacksonville in northeast Florida. With miles of beaches, ample parks and good schools, Jacksonville has something to offer everyone. Plus, with its rich artistic tradition, there’s always something new to explore in this vibrant city.

Jacksonville, known as “Jax” by locals, is the largest city by geographical size in the continental US. Thanks to the St. Johns River, it boasts 22 miles of shoreline and distinct neighborhoods with natural beauty. The accessibility to Florida’s interior waterways and the Atlantic Ocean is one reason Jax is home to two vital US Navy facilities.

So, if you’re considering moving to Jacksonville, you have many options, especially for waterfront living. To help start your home search, we’ve handpicked a few of the top neighborhoods based on their popularity and amenities.

Here are just a few of Jacksonville’s best neighborhoods:

Avondale

This charming, historic neighborhood is known for its tree-lined streets and brick bungalows. With a thriving arts scene and lively nightlife, Avondale is one of Jacksonville’s most desirable places to live.

Avondale is not only a charming, thriving urban community, but it has ranked as one of the top neighborhoods in America. The arrangement of the residential neighborhood makes enjoying a work-live-play lifestyle more accessible than ever before. It’s close to cultural attractions and recreation, like the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens. On Saturdays, there is a local art market where you’re bound to find hidden gems from local artisans and producers. The area offers several parks and waterfront access.

While Avondale is known for its luxurious riverfront homes, the area is also experiencing a housing redevelopment boom. The October 2022 market had 40 listings with a median price of $492,500.

Mandarin

Taking its name from the Mandarin orange in 1830, this neighborhood, one of the most coveted ones in Jacksonville, lies along the St. Johns River, just south of San Marco. Mandarin is celebrated is celebrated for its unique beauty and peaceful ambiance.

The neighborhood is graced with grand oak trees covered in Spanish moss, offering a calm and welcoming setting. Its strong sense of community is another highly desirable quality among established families that often see this area as their potential home.

Mandarin’s median home price is approximately $585,000, highlighting its appeal. The neighborhood features elegant riverfront estates with breathtaking views of the St. Johns River, perfect for those seeking luxury and tranquility.

Traditional single-family homes with spacious yards are common, offering ample space for families and a suburban charm. Additionally, you’ll find contemporary townhomes and cozy bungalows nestled among the area’s lush greenery, providing a range of options for homebuyers.

Mandarin’s excellent public schools, part of the Duval County School District, further enhance its appeal to families looking for a safe and nurturing community.

Residents enjoy many amenities, attractions, and outdoor activities. The neighborhood is home to the Mandarin Museum and Walter Jones Historical Park if you like history. Tommy Hasouri Sr. Park offers walking trails, picnic areas, and a boat ramp for easy access to the St. Johns River. The Julington-Durbin Preserve also provides hiking, biking, and wildlife observation opportunities.

Riverside

This historic neighborhood is one of the liveliest in Jacksonville. Riverside is home to a diverse mix of shops, restaurants, and businesses. The area also has several public parks, including Memorial Park, which hosts a farmers market every Saturday.

Located beside Avondale, Riverside is centrally located. The adjacent I-10/I-95 interchange on the community border makes it easy to get around Jacksonville. The St. Johns River forms the easternmost border for the neighborhood, providing residents with beautiful views and access to water activities. Three community parks are on the water, and Cummer Museum Art & Gardens has spectacular views.

Fall in love with this dreamy neighborhood, towering oak trees, midcentury bungalows, and brownstones. While it is waterfront, there are fewer waterfront residential properties because of the parks and the St. Vincent hospital. The median price for the 87 homes for sale in Riverside was $396,300 as of October 2020.

St. Johns

As a new homeowner, you’ll be enchanted by the lush landscapes and the welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere that pervades St. Johns. Midway between Jacksonville and St. Augustine, this unincorporated community is a popular suburb of Jax known for its outstanding schools, comfortable living standards, and fast-growing population.

With a median home price of around $565,000, it attracts a diverse group of families, professionals, and retirees. Housing options here are varied, from sleek contemporary single-family homes to expansive townhouses, all featuring modern commodities and thoughtful designs.

If you are a golf enthusiast, you’ll love Saint Johns. There’s a vast array of golf courses just minutes away, like the St. Johns Golf & Country Club or Cimarrone Golf Club, where pristine fairways and challenging greens await.

These nearby golf clubs not only provide excellent play but also boast top-notch facilities, including pro shops, fine dining, and social events, creating a golfer’s paradise right at your doorstep.

Nature lovers will find plenty of fun in St. Johns. The nearby Julington-Durbin Preserve offers trails for hiking, biking, and wildlife observation. The picturesque St. Johns River provides a perfect setting for boating, fishing, and various water sports.

San Marco

Feel like you’re entering a new world when you enter the San Marco neighborhood. Located south of Jacksonville’s downtown, the prevalent Mediterranean-style architecture sets this community apart.

The famous San Marco Square takes a page of inspiration from Venice, Italy, with its fountains, art galleries, and bistros. People come to enjoy upscale shopping, dining, parks, and public art. Visit the Square each Saturday for its farmers market. Residents can enjoy various activities, including kayaking, fishing, and stand-up paddle boarding, launching from the waterfront parks.

San Marco is one of the most desirable places to live in Jacksonville because of its prime location, historic architecture, and amenities. The median price for the nine homes available in San Marco was $675,000 as of October 2022.

Beacon Hills and Harbour

This family-friendly neighborhood is located in the northwest part of Jacksonville. Beacon Hills curls around Mill Cove and the St. Johns River near its terminus into the Atlantic Ocean. It is known for its quiet streets and large yards.

Primarily a residential area, it is close to some shopping and dining, but you’ll need to drive to it. Recreation amenities nearby include the Jacksonville Arboretum, Austen Regional Park, and the Timucuan Preserve.

With its quiet location near the waterfront, Beacon Hills is a popular place to live in Jacksonville for those seeking a laid-back lifestyle. The median price for the 14 homes in Beacon Hills was $477,500 as of October 2025.

Nocatee

Filled with suburban charm and comfortable amenities, there are few places like Nocatee to set residence south of Jacksonville. This master-planned community perfectly balances modern living with natural beauty.

With a median home price of around $795,000, Nocatee attracts a variety of homebuyers, including young families, professionals, and retirees. Housing styles in the area range from contemporary single-family homes to luxurious townhouses, all designed with state-of-the-art amenities and stylish finishes.

Residents praise the impressive array of amenities that enhance the quality of life here. At the heart of Nocatee is the Splash Water Park, featuring thrilling water slides, a lazy river, and a lagoon pool, providing endless fun for families.

The community also boasts numerous parks, golf courses, fitness centers, and walking trails, ensuring plenty of options for everyone to stay active and engaged.

Nocatee boasts a vibrant, community-oriented vibe that fosters a strong sense of belonging. Regular events, farmers markets, and festivals create a lively atmosphere for socializing. The Town Center serves as the community hub offering diverse shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Nearby, the Nocatee Preserve features hiking and biking trails along the Intracoastal Waterway. Residents can enjoy several golf courses and the pristine beaches of Ponte Vedra just a short drive away.

Jacksonville Beach

We can’t talk about living near the ocean without bringing up oceanfront living. Jacksonville Beach is the best beachfront living option in the metro if you prioritize convenience and amenities. This barrier island suburb is known for its beaches, restaurants, and shops.

Residents can enjoy sunbathing, fishing, surfing, stand-up paddle boarding, and more. Several parks in Jacksonville Beach provide sports recreation, waterfront access, and playgrounds for kids. Cradle Creek Preserve offers hiking trails overlooking the Intracoastal waterway.

Jacksonville Beach is self-sustaining, meaning everything you need is right on the island. Schools, grocery shopping, medical, and entertainment–there’s no need to drive off the island unless you want to.

The median price for the 138 homes available in Jacksonville Beach was $652,500 as of October 2022.

Julington Creek

Like many South Florida neighborhoods, Julington Creek radiates a blend of modern living and scenic charm. With real estate prices ranging between $247K and $2.15M, it attracts young and established families, young professionals, and empty nesters seeking a vibrant community. The neighborhood boasts a mix of contemporary residences and historic homes, all surrounded by lush green spaces that add to its picturesque beauty.

The neighborhood offers an abundance of amenities that cater to diverse interests . Residents enjoy access to beautiful beaches just a short drive away, providing the perfect escape for weekend day trips.

The community is also home to numerous parks, including the popular Julington Creek Plantation Park, which features walking paths, sports fields, and playgrounds. These green spaces offer endless opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation.

Julington Creek exudes a friendly and welcoming vibe with a strong sense of community. The local dining scene is vibrant, offering a mix of charming local eateries and popular chain restaurants.

The neighborhood boasts several craft breweries for those who enjoy craft beers, adding to the lively and social atmosphere. The cost of living in Julington Creek is relatively affordable compared to the national average, making it an attractive option for homebuyers.

Proximity to Jacksonville, a major city with a robust job market, enhances the appeal of Julington Creek. Residents benefit from the convenience of nearby employment opportunities, excellent schools, and a variety of shopping and dining options.

Atlantic Beach

Another Jacksonville beach town, Atlantic Beach, is a smaller community north of Jacksonville Beach. The city has a unique history as one of Florida’s first planned communities, initially developed in the 1920s as a summer retreat for wealthy families from the Northeast.

Nowadays, Atlantic Beach is still a popular place to live for those seeking a laidback lifestyle by the ocean. The town is home to several parks, including Kathryn Abbey Hanna State Park, which offers opportunities for fishing, swimming, surfing, and more. The Atlantic Beach Country Club is a private club with golf and tennis facilities.

Atlantic Beach is more suburban and less touristy than the other beaches. You’ll always be near the water, whether you find a place oceanfront, on the Intracoastal, or somewhere in between. The median price for the 81 homes available in Atlantic Beach in October 2022 was $635,000.

Ponte Vedra Beach

Ponte Vedra Beach, a gem of a neighborhood just 25 minutes east of Jacksonville, FL, epitomizes coastal luxury and serene living. With its sandy shores along the Atlantic Ocean and the tranquil Intracoastal Waterway, this community offers a picturesque setting that captivates residents and visitors alike. The median home price here stands at approximately $862,600, reflecting the area’s upscale nature.

Housing styles range from opulent beachfront estates to charming single-family homes on large lots within gated golf and country club communities, catering to discerning homebuyers seeking exclusivity and elegance.

Families are particularly drawn to Ponte Vedra Beach due to its location in St. Johns County, which boasts one of Florida’s top-rated public school districts.

Beyond its real estate options, Ponte Vedra Beach is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and those who appreciate a vibrant yet relaxed lifestyle. Residents enjoy many activities, from playing a round of golf at the prestigious TPC Sawgrass, home to THE PLAYERS Championship, to exploring the lush landscapes of the nearby Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve.

The community is dotted with parks, walking trails, and pristine beaches, making it perfect for nature lovers.

Deerwood

Deerwood is on the southeast side of Jacksonville and is one of the most affluent neighborhoods in the city. The area is known for its luxury homes, golf courses, and country club living.

Residents have access to several resort-style complexes. Amenities include several golf courses, tennis facilities, swimming pools, and fitness centers. Deerwood has its own private schools, making it a popular place to live for families with school-age children.

Deerwood developed in the 2000s, so the homes often have a newer construction and design. The median price for the 94 homes available in Deerwood was $339,000 as of October 2022 but go up to $2.9 million.

Southside

The Southside of Jacksonville is a significant historic area encompassing many different neighborhoods. This part of town is known for its convenient location and shopping amenities.

The Southside is home to the St. Johns Town Center, a popular outdoor shopping mall with high-end stores and restaurants. The Avenue Mall provides an indoor shopping experience. Tinseltown has more options for entertainment, including a movie theater, bowling alley, and arcade.

This area of Jacksonville is close to the airport and has easy access to Interstate 95. The median price for the 42 homes available on the Southside was $279,500 as of October 2022.

Neptune Beach

Neptune Beach is a charming coastal neighborhood in south Jacksonville, FL. It offers a calm escape from the hustle and bustle of urban neighborhoods. Known for its laid-back resort vibe, this area is perfect for those seeking a tight-knit community with beach living amenities and activities.

The median home price in Neptune Beach is around $1.6M, reflecting the neighborhood’s luxurious character. The real estate market in this location offers mostly single-family homes, some mansions, and seascapes and ocean front views are plentiful.

Homebuyers are drawn to the picturesque streets lined with quaint beach cottages and contemporary residences, making it an ideal place for mature families and professionals. It is also a great spot to own a vacation home in Florida.

Neptune Beach residents enjoy outdoor activities ranging from leisurely beach cruiser rides along the scenic coast to exploring the nearby Jarboe Park. The neighborhood’s proximity to Atlantic Beach and Jax Beach further enhances its appeal, offering additional recreational opportunities and amenities.

The Neptune Beach area boasts a variety of dining and shopping options, ensuring that residents have everything they need within a short distance. With no state income tax and the cost of living close to the national average, it’s no wonder that this neighborhood is a popular choice for those looking to enjoy the best of coastal living

Northside

Looking for a more rural Florida lifestyle? Try the Northside is a large area home to many various historic neighborhoods and swaths of protected areas. This up-and-coming part of town is known for its affordability and convenient location.

If you’re looking for a place to enjoy nature, Northside is the perfect region. With kayaking and birdwatching at Timucuan Ecological and Historical Preserve, as well as an undeveloped beach at Little Talbot Island State Park, there’s something for everyone. Plus, you can learn about historic slavery exhibits at 19th-century Kingsley Plantation. And don’t forget to visit the Jacksonville Zoo – home to a walking African safari and manatee rescue center!

Find several shopping centers, including The River City Marketplace and The Gateway Town Center, for your daily needs. This part of Jacksonville has access to Interstate 95 for commuting to downtown or Savannah, GA, and provides easy access to the airport.

Real estate in Northside ranges from old Florida farms to new, master-planned developments.

Springfield

Springfield is renowned for its rich history and lively cultural scene. Situated just north of the downtown core, Springfield boasts an array of beautifully restored historic homes, with a median home price of around $402,000, making it an attractive option for those seeking charm and affordability.

The neighborhood’s overall vibe is a delightful mix of urban energy and community warmth. Residents enjoy easy access to the downtown core, with its bustling business district, trendy shops, and diverse dining options, all within a short distance from home.

Springfield’s abundant amenities include several parks and green spaces, such as Klutho Park, where locals can engage in outdoor activities like jogging, picnicking, and enjoying community events.

Homebuyers in Springfield are typically young professionals, families, and retirees who appreciate the blend of historic charm and modern conveniences. The presence of apartment complexes alongside single-family homes provides a range of living options to suit different lifestyles and budgets.

Springfield’s quality of life is further enhanced by its proximity to cultural hotspots and urban neighborhoods in Duval County. Residents can enjoy the arts and entertainment offerings in the nearby historic district or take a short drive to Jax Beach for a day of sun and surf, making Springfield an ideal place for those who value both culture and recreation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Best Places To Live in Jacksonville, FL

What are the pros and cons of living in Jacksonville, Florida?

Pros: Jacksonville offers a blend of urban and suburban living with a lower cost of living compared to other major Florida cities. Residents enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, a mild climate, and access to beautiful beaches. The city also boasts a growing job market, especially in healthcare, finance, and logistics.

Cons: The public transportation system is less developed, making a car essential for most residents. Summers can be very hot and humid; hurricane season can bring severe weather. Some areas are considered safer than others, so it’s important to research neighborhoods carefully before buying homes for sale in Jacksonville.

Is it cheaper to live in Jacksonville or Miami?

Yes, it is generally cheaper to live in Jacksonville compared to Miami. According to data from Numbeo, the cost of living in Miami is about 20-25% higher than in Jacksonville. For example, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Miami’s city center is around $2,300 per month, whereas in Jacksonville, it is approximately $1,400 per month.

Something similar occurs with home prices. The median sale price for a home for sale in Miami is $579,125, while in Jacksonville is $302,141. Consumer prices, including groceries and dining, are also lower in Jacksonville, making it a more affordable option for residents.

How close is Jacksonville to the beach?

Jacksonville is conveniently located near several beautiful beaches. Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, and Atlantic Beach are all within a 20 to 30-minute drive from downtown Jax. This proximity makes it easy for residents to enjoy the coastal lifestyle with minimal travel.

How much do I need to make to live in Jacksonville, FL?

To live comfortably in Jacksonville, FL, a single person should aim to make around $45,000 to $50,000 per year. According to the Economic Policy Institute, a single adult’s living cost in Jacksonville is approximately $2,700 per month, including housing, food, transportation, healthcare, and other necessities. This translates to about $32,400 annually. However, an annual income of $45,000 to $50,000 is recommended to account for savings, emergencies, and discretionary spending.

What are the best zip codes in Jacksonville, Florida?

Some of the best zip codes in Jacksonville for living include:

• 32207 (San Marco)

• 32210 (Avondale)

• 32205 (Riverside)

• 32224 (Intracoastal West).

These areas are known for their tight knit communities, good schools, and a range of amenities including dining, shopping, and parks.

Best Jacksonville, FL Neighborhoods

Whether you’re looking for a bustling city life or a more laid-back suburban existence, Jacksonville has the perfect neighborhood. With its convenient location, great amenities, and affordable housing options, the city is an ideal place to live for families and individuals alike. So what are you waiting for? Come see why Jacksonville is one of the best places to live in Florida!