“Jax,” as it’s known to locals, boasts the largest urban park system in the nation, four times the size of Manhattan. Its location along the Atlantic coast, however, also means beaches are nearby. Founded in 1822, the 874.6 square-mile city today features straight and curvilinear streets. Its median age is 35.9 (2022). Top industries include IT, health, advanced manufacturing, financial services, and transportation and logistics.

Whether homebuyers are looking for a beachside condo, a cozy single-family home, or a condo close to amenities, Jacksonville has them all. The typical home value is $313,315, up 27.1% over the past year (Zillow, 2022). Annual events, including the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, the Kingfish Tournament, and the Jax Science Festival, help keep residents entertained year-round.

The I-10, I-95, and I-295 are Jacksonville’s main thoroughfares. I-10 is near the Avondale neighborhood, which features a riverfront lined with million-dollar Colonial mansions and apartment buildings. Further north and adjacent to I-10 is Riverside. It’s a great place for young professionals to live, and a quick commute downtown. Oak-lined streets, Mid-Century bungalows, and brownstones are prominent in this area. Orange Park, which is right off I-295, is popular with military families, due to its proximity to the Naval Air Station.

Shops, restaurants, a vibrant nightlife, outdoor pursuits, and cultural experiences: Jacksonville has just the right combination to make a great place to live.