Pros and Cons of Moving to Jacksonville, Florida

Jacksonville, Florida is the largest city in the state of Florida in terms of physical size and the twelfth largest in the United States. It is located in the northeastern part of the state and is situated along the Atlantic coast. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, warm weather, variety of neighborhoods, and strong economy.

With its warm climate, scenic beaches, and proximity to major cities such as Orlando and Savannah, it is no surprise that many people are considering moving to Jacksonville. However, as with any city, there are pros and cons to living in Jacksonville. In this article, we will explore some of the key factors to consider if you are thinking about buying a home in Jacksonville.

Pros:

1. Weather: Jacksonville has a warm and sunny climate, making it an ideal place to live for those who enjoy outdoor activities. The average temperature in the city is around 75 degrees Fahrenheit, and there are plenty of sunny days to enjoy the beaches and other outdoor attractions.

2. Beaches: Jacksonville is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the state, including Jacksonville Beach, Atlantic Beach, and Neptune Beach. The city has over 22 miles of beaches, and these beaches offer a variety of activities such as swimming, surfing, sunbathing, and fishing.

3. Economy: Jacksonville has a strong economy, which is supported by a variety of industries including healthcare, logistics, and finance. The city is home to several major companies, including CSX Transportation and Fidelity National Information Services, which provide plenty of job opportunities for residents.

4. Culture: Jacksonville has a rich cultural scene, with a variety of museums, art galleries, and theaters. The city also hosts several annual festivals and events, such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival and the Jacksonville International Food and Wine Festival.

5. Cost of Living: The cost of living in Jacksonville is relatively low compared to other major cities in the United States. Housing, in particular, is very affordable, with the median home price below the national average.

Cons:

1. Traffic: Like all major cities in the United States, Jacksonville has traffic problems, particularly during rush hour. This can make it difficult for residents to get around the city, especially if they are commuting to work or school. However, as most transplants from Los Angeles, New York, Washington DC, or other major metropolitan areas would mention, the traffic in Jacksonville is much less. The city is continuing to invest in transportation improvements (such as those on the I-295 Beltway) to lessen traffic issues.

2. Crime: Certain zip codes in Jacksonville have a higher crime rate than the national average with a higher incidence of property crimes and violent crimes. This is something that potential residents should consider before moving to the city, but several other areas and zip codes are much safer. The use of websites such as SpotCrime.com are very helpful when researching areas of Jacksonville to live.

3. Hurricanes: Jacksonville is located in an area that is prone to hurricanes, which can cause significant damage to the city and its residents. At the same time, there hasn't been a direct hit of hurricane on Jacksonville since 1961. Nonetheless, this is something that potential residents should be aware of before moving to the city. Likewise, when considering a move, it is important to check the flood zone of the potential property. Flood Zone X or Shaded X are the most desirable as these flood zones have the least chance of flooding.

4. Education: The city's education system is not considered to be of the best quality, and there are only a few top-rated schools. As a result, it is important to research school rating on websites such as GreatSchools.org. Residents will also often consider living north of the city (Nassau County) or south of the city (St. Johns County) as the school systems in these counties are better rated.

5. Limited Public Transportation: The city has a bus system, but overall public transportation is limited. Most residents of the city commute by personal vehicles.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, Jacksonville, Florida is a beautiful and vibrant city that offers plenty of opportunities for residents. However, there are also some downsides to living in the city that potential residents should consider before making the move. The city's traffic in certain areas at rush hour, crime rate in particular zip codes, and limited public transportation are all significant issues that should be taken into account. Additionally, the city is prone to hurricanes, which can cause significant damage to the city and its residents. On the other hand, the cost of living is relatively low and the city has a strong economy and rich cultural scene. Ultimately, the decision to move to Jacksonville should be based on the individual's priorities and lifestyle.

Are you thinking of moving to Jacksonville, Florida? Read our quick overview on buying a home to get more tips and information on how to purchase your first home in Jacksonville.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Rob Hastings is a top-producing real estate agent in Jacksonville, Florida and helps buyers, sellers, and investors of homes and property throughout all of Northeast Florida. He works with his wife Nancy as a husband-and wife-team with Keller Williams Realty Atlantic Partners. When not helping his clients navigate the real estate process, Rob enjoys working on old Corvettes and playing music (guitar and piano). A U.S. Naval Academy graduate and former Naval Officer, he also loves boating and simply spending time on the water.