Is Jacksonville Florida worth visiting?

Tucked away in the northeastern corner of one the USA’s most visited states, Jacksonville, Florida’s most populous city, offers all the benefits of a beach town combined with city life and Southern charm. With warm temperatures year round – January’s highs average in the 60s – it’s always a pleasant time to visit.

Is there anything to see in Jacksonville Florida?

Known to locals as “Hanna Park,” Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park is one of the best places to visit in Jacksonville for outdoor fun. The lake is a popular destination for fishing, kayaking, canoeing and paddle boating. … Nature trails wind throughout the park, so visitors can hike and bike to their heart’s content.

Why is Jacksonville Florida so popular?

Known as the largest city in the Sunshine State (and largest city in the continental U.S.), JAX, as the city is known by the locals, boasts over 850 square miles of stunning beaches, thrilling attractions and natural beauty.

Is Jacksonville FL safe to visit?

OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM. Jacksonville is somewhat safe to visit. Violent crime exists but it’s not too common and most dangers are petty. Take the usual precaution measures when traveling here.

Are Jacksonville beaches nice?

Flanked by some of the most luscious sands on the northeastern coast of Florida, this bustling metropolis is one of the best places to visit for those hoping for a quiet, laid-back beach experience. Dubbed the “River city by the sea,” Jacksonville is a hot spot for nature lovers.

What is Jacksonville known for?

What is Jacksonville Most Famous For?
  • Cummer Museum of Art &amp, Gardens.
  • Little Talbot Island State Park.
  • Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville.
  • Kayaking on St. Johns River.
  • Ritz Theatre and Museum.
  • Shopping and art walks in downtown.
  • Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail Trail.
  • Jacksonville Beach.

Which is better Orlando or Jacksonville?

If you’re looking for more diversity, lots of people, awesome food, and plenty of attractions, Orlando is probably right up your alley. If you like the idea of a thriving metropolis, but appreciate Southern hospitality and coastal life, Jacksonville likely floats your boat.

Is Jacksonville FL expensive?

Jacksonville, Florida’s cost of living is 5% lower than the national average. The cost of living in any area can vary based on factors such as your career, its average salary and the real estate market of that area.

Is Jacksonville a nice city?

Offering residents a suburban feel, Jacksonville is one of the best places to live in Florida. This city is safe and full of restaurants, parks, and lots of things to do. … Johns River, picturesque beaches, and a naval air station, Jacksonville is the third largest seaport in Florida.

Is the Riverwalk in Jacksonville safe?

It is not a safe place. It crawls with those looking for your $, who would commit a crime to get it. I do not recommend this for anything but large groups that can protect themselves. Please don’t bring your children here as it makes you a target.

Where should you not stay in Jacksonville?

The most dangerous areas in Jacksonville is based on data from the local law enforcement agency and when not available, also includes estimates based on demographic data.
  • 29th And Chase. Population 1,790. …
  • East Jacksonville. Population 2,371. …
  • Mid-Westside. …
  • Springfield. …
  • Moncrief Park. …
  • Mixon Town. …
  • Lackawanna. …
  • New Town.

What is the safest city in Florida?

Safest Cities Overall
  • COOPER CITY, FL. Safety Score:96.7. + Population:36,896. Property Crimes (per 100,000):1,174. …
  • WESTON, FL. Safety Score:96.6. + Population:71,744. Property Crimes (per 100,000):521. …
  • SEBASTIAN, FL. Safety Score:95.3. + Population:25,672. …
  • PORT ST. LUCIE, FL. Safety Score:94.8. + …
  • PORT ORANGE, FL.

Why is Jacksonville Beach water brown?

The main reason why the waters in Jacksonville Beach are brown is the St. Johns River. … Johns River has a murky color due to the fact that it picks up sediments on its way towards the coast. It is from decaying plants or nutrients that is picked up along the way.


Is Jacksonville Beach or Neptune Beach better?

Jacksonville Beach is a bit of a younger area with some new construction, lots of townhomes and condos, and the liveliest nightlife of the three. While Neptune Beach doesn’t offer a lively nightlife, it’s the best for surfing and does offer some shops and restaurants.

How far is Jacksonville from the ocean?

Jacksonville is home to 22 miles of beautiful white sand beaches. Find out everything you need to know about hitting the beach during your trip to Jacksonville.

What is unique about Jacksonville?

Jacksonville Facts

Jacksonville has more than 840 square miles – (making it the largest city by landmass in the Continental or contiguous USA). The longest stretch of the St. … Jacksonville boasts the largest urban park system in the nation, it is 4x the size of the island of Manhattan!

Does Jacksonville hurricane?

Biggest Storms to Hit Jacksonville FL. … When it comes to Jacksonville, Florida, it’s hurricanes. Being on the brutal east coast, so many tropical storms and hurricanes sweep through Jacksonville every year that the locals are slowly running out of names.

Is Jacksonville a poor city?

The Poverty Rate across the state of Florida is 15.5%, meaning Jacksonville has a slightly higher than average percentage of residents below the poverty line when compared to the rest of Florida.

Poverty Rate in Jacksonville, Florida.
City Poverty Rate
Jacksonville Beach 7.5%
Neptune Beach 12.8%

Is Jacksonville Florida safe from hurricanes?

Jacksonville is the most populous city in Florida, and across the broader Jacksonville metro area, over 220,000 single family homes are at risk of storm surge damage in the event of a hurricane. In the event that all at-risk homes get damaged by a storm surge, replacement costs could hit $52.7 billion.

What city is halfway between Jacksonville and Orlando?

Halfway between Jacksonville, FL and Orlando, FL

The best city between Jacksonville, FL and Orlando, FL to meet is Palm Coast, Florida which is about 10 miles from the exact midpoint. The town that marks the exact halfway point is actually Korona, Florida. The closest zip code to the midpoint is 32164.

Is Jacksonville cheaper than Orlando?

Jacksonville is 10.2% less expensive than Orlando. Jacksonville housing costs are 26.5% less expensive than Orlando housing costs.

Is Atlanta more expensive than Jacksonville?

Jacksonville is 13.0% less expensive than Atlanta. Jacksonville housing costs are 30.4% less expensive than Atlanta housing costs. Health related expenses are 5.8% more in Jacksonville.

Is Jacksonville Florida affordable?

Jacksonville has one of the cheapest costs of living in Florida, and comes in well on the lower-cost side of the pack in a recent analysis of the cost of living in the top 75 cities in the U.S.

Can I afford to live in Jacksonville Florida?

In Duval County, Jacksonville residents need an annual income of $37,880, or an hourly wage of $18.21, to afford the cost of an average two-bedroom apartment — about $947 a month. In Nassau, St. Johns and Clay counties, an annual income of $37,880 is also needed to afford a two-bedroom apartment.

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

The Pros of Living in Jacksonville, FL
  • Lower Cost of Living. Compared to other major U.S. cities, Jacksonville usually has one of the lowest costs of living. …
  • Great Weather. …
  • Beaches Galore! …
  • Small-Town Atmosphere. …
  • Weak Public Transportation. …
  • Job Market Still Developing. …
  • Concerning Crime Rate. …
  • Higher Risk of Pest Intrusion.

What is the racial makeup of Jacksonville Florida?

According to the most recent ACS, the racial composition of Jacksonvillewas: White: 58.22% Black or African American: 30.95% Asian: 4.76%

Is Jacksonville Beach Safe?

With a crime rate of 41 per one thousand residents, Jacksonville Beach has one of the highest crime rates in America compared to all communities of all sizes – from the smallest towns to the very largest cities. One’s chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime here is one in 24.

Is Jacksonville good for families?

Jacksonville Fits Families Like A Glove

AreaVibes ranks Jacksonville as Extremely Livable with a score of 79 out of a possible 100 for its affordability, Southern charm, lots of amenities, plenty of sunshine, and high graduation rates—the perfect recipe for family living.

Can you walk the Acosta Bridge?

Acosta Bridge is a 1.6 mile (3,500-step) route located near Jacksonville, Florida, USA. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

What is the nicest area in Jacksonville?

10 Best Neighborhoods in Jacksonville, Florida!
  • San Marco. This small and quiet little neighborhood of San Marco is a popular hub of chic boutiques, trendy bars, and relaxed bistros. …
  • Downtown Jacksonville. …
  • Southside. …
  • Riverside. …
  • Five Points. …
  • Deerwood. …
  • The Beaches. …
  • Orange Park.

How long is the Jacksonville Riverwalk?

The 2-mile Northbank Riverwalk is one of the most popular and well-used attractions in Downtown Jacksonville. Developed incrementally between 1987 and 2008 for a total estimated investment of $8.5 million, the riverwalk stretches two miles from I-95 in Riverside to Berkman Plaza near the Sports District.

Is San Marco in Jacksonville safe?

Safety in San Marco

If safety is a top priority for you, you’ll be pleased to know that San Marco is one the safest neighborhoods in Jacksonville. If you enjoy walking out late at night, this is your area.

Whats the worst city in Florida?

Top 5 Most Dangerous Cities in Florida
  • Florida City.
  • Lake City.
  • Opa Locka.
  • Lake Park.
  • Panama City Beach.

Why Florida is not a good place to live?

Hurricanes and other natural disasters

Florida is known for its natural disasters, like hurricanes and sinkholes. Hurricanes can be deadly, and repairing storm damage done to a home or business could cost a lot. Hurricanes can knock out electrical grids in neighborhoods.

Which part of Florida is best to live in?

Best Places to Live in Florida in 2021
  1. Naples. Nestled in the southwest corner of Florida, along the Gulf of Mexico, Naples holds the top spot for places to live in Florida. …
  2. Sarasota. …
  3. Melbourne. …
  4. Jacksonville. …
  5. Pensacola. …
  6. Tampa. …
  7. Fort Myers. …
  8. Port St.

Is Jacksonville Florida beach water blue?

After sunbathing or taking a dip in the warm Atlantic Ocean, beach-goers may want to explore the long, Jacksonville Beach Fishing Pier, which extends almost a quarter of a mile into the deep, blue-green waters of the sea.

Does Jacksonville Florida have clear water?

We don’t have clear blue water here or soft sand that you sink into when you walk on it. We have miles and miles of wide straight beaches with light sand colored sand that is firm enough to walk and run on comfortably. You can wade quite a ways out before the water depth is over your head.

Is Jacksonville Beach clean?

Very clean family beach with plenty of restaurants and bars on the boardwalk.

Does Jacksonville Beach have white sand?

Whether you’re just hoping to relax on the seaside or spend an active day surfing, kayaking, playing volleyball or fishing, there’s a beach in the Jacksonville area for you. Soft white sand and the glorious Florida sunshine are the most obvious attractions of Jacksonville’s beaches.

Can you drink on the beach in Jacksonville FL?

No alcoholic beverages or glass bottles are allowed on the beach. Picnicking is allowed on the beach. All food must be removed before leaving.

Is Jacksonville Beach free?

It’s $3 for the first two hours and then $1 per hour after that with a maximum of $7 for the day. City of Jacksonville Beach residents park for free if they have registered their license plates with the Jacksonville Beach Police Department.

Does Jacksonville Florida have beaches?

The city’s main beaches are Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, Mayport Beach and Atlantic Beach. … Jacksonville also has a very active diving scene, with more than 30 offshore reefs off our Atlantic coast.

How far is Jacksonville to the nearest beach?

1. Ponte Vedra Beach. Ponte Vedra Beach is one of the most famous beaches near Jacksonville, Florida. Located only 18 miles from downtown Jacksonville, the beach offers an amazing scenic beauty.

Does Jacksonville Beach have a boardwalk?

Jacksonville Beach Boardwalk

The boardwalk between the beach and the backside of buildings and residences on 1st street draws large crowds of all ages, from all around town, as well as tourists.

Is Jacksonville Florida bigger than New York city?

Jacksonville takes up 747 square miles, and is Florida’s largest city in terms of both land area and population. … Manhattan also seems minuscule compared to Jacksonville, although twice as many people live in the financial core of NY. You’d think Chicago is big? Well, it’s densely populated for sure.

Is Jacksonville FL the biggest city?

Jacksonville is the most populous city in Florida, and is the largest city by area in the contiguous United States as of 2020. It is the seat of Duval County, with which the city government consolidated in 1968.

Why is Jacksonville named after Andrew Jackson?

Welcome to the United States. … Two settlers donated land on the north bank of Cowford to establish a “proper” town in 1822 and the site was renamed Jacksonville, in honor of the territory’s first provisional governor, Andrew Jackson, who never set foot in the town, but went on to become the seventh U.S. President.

Is Jacksonville Florida prone to flooding?

Overall, Jacksonville has a moderate risk of flooding over the next 30 years, which means flooding is likely to impact day to day life within the community.

Is Jacksonville tropical?

Because of its Northeast Florida location, Jacksonville has a subtropical climate, unlike the near-tropical climate of South Florida and the Keys, and a subtle change of seasons not found in more southerly Florida cities.

What part of Florida is safest from hurricanes?

North Central Florida has the fewest hurricanes because it is away from the water and has a higher elevation. If your primary concern is hurricane safety, then Lake City, FL, has the fewest hurricanes.
  • Sanford. …
  • Orlando. …
  • Kissimmee. …
  • Gainesville. …
  • Ocala. …
  • Leesburg. …
  • Palatka. …
  • Lake City.

Is Jacksonville Florida Diverse?

With a diversity score of 92 out of 100, Jacksonville is much more diverse than other US cities.

Is downtown Jacksonville safe?

OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM. Jacksonville is somewhat safe to visit. Violent crime exists but it’s not too common and most dangers are petty.

How expensive is Jacksonville FL?

Jacksonville cost of living is 93.5
COST OF LIVING Jacksonville USA
Housing 78 100
Median Home Cost $231,800 $291,700
Utilities 102.8 100
Transportation 101.4 100

How bad is Jacksonville FL?

Let’s cut to the chase — crime rates here are above the Florida average, and are relatively high on the national scale, too. Neighborhood Scout gives Jax a crime index of 8, meaning it’s considered to be safer than only 8% of other U.S. cities. … As mentioned, Jacksonville is huge and many areas are perfectly safe.

Does Jacksonville have tornadoes?

There has been a tremendous amount of damage reported in the Jacksonville area after a tornado touched down Wednesday evening. The National Weather Service in Jacksonville confirmed a tornado at 4:54PM ET in Arlington, FL.

Where do most hurricanes hit in Florida?

1. Southeast Florida (Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach) Southeast Florida is very susceptible to hurricanes, given its location at the tip of the state. Most large hurricanes affect Southeast Florida with storm surges and plentiful rain – and those that make direct landfall can cause severe damage.

How far is Disney from Jacksonville?

Yes, the driving distance between Jacksonville to Walt Disney World is 164 miles. It takes approximately 2h 52m to drive from Jacksonville to Walt Disney World.

What city is between Jacksonville and Tampa?

The city at the geographic halfway point from Jacksonville, FL to Tampa Bay is Santos, Florida.

What’s in between Orlando and Jacksonville?

The top cities between Orlando and Jacksonville are St. Augustine, Daytona Beach, Saint Augustine Beach, DeLand, Winter Park, Ormond Beach, and New Smyrna Beach.

Is it better to live in Jacksonville or Orlando?

If you’re looking for more diversity, lots of people, awesome food, and plenty of attractions, Orlando is probably right up your alley. If you like the idea of a thriving metropolis, but appreciate Southern hospitality and coastal life, Jacksonville likely floats your boat.

Is it cheaper to live in FL or GA?

Georgia is 3.0% more expensive than Florida.

How much does it cost to move to Florida from Georgia?

Quick Answer: The average cost to move from Georgia to Florida is $2,000-$3,200 depending on the size, route, and timing of the move. Hiring a professional moving company will be on the more expensive side. Renting a truck or using a moving container will save you money but also require a lot more work.

What is the cost of living in Georgia compared to Florida?

Comparison Highlights
Cost of Living Indexes Atlanta, GA Clearwater, FL
Overall Index: Homeowner, No Child care, Taxes Not Considered 109.4 99.1
Food &amp, Groceries 98.8 105.1
Housing (Homeowner) 112 90.1
Median Home Cost $334,200 $268,600

Does Jacksonville hurricane?

Biggest Storms to Hit Jacksonville FL. … When it comes to Jacksonville, Florida, it’s hurricanes. Being on the brutal east coast, so many tropical storms and hurricanes sweep through Jacksonville every year that the locals are slowly running out of names.

Is Jacksonville a nice city?

Offering residents a suburban feel, Jacksonville is one of the best places to live in Florida. This city is safe and full of restaurants, parks, and lots of things to do. … Johns River, picturesque beaches, and a naval air station, Jacksonville is the third largest seaport in Florida.

What is Jacksonville known for?

What is Jacksonville Most Famous For?
  • Cummer Museum of Art &amp, Gardens.
  • Little Talbot Island State Park.
  • Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville.
  • Kayaking on St. Johns River.
  • Ritz Theatre and Museum.
  • Shopping and art walks in downtown.
  • Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail Trail.
  • Jacksonville Beach.

Is Jacksonville cheap?

Jacksonville has one of the cheapest costs of living in Florida, and comes in well on the lower-cost side of the pack in a recent analysis of the cost of living in the top 75 cities in the U.S.

How far is Jacksonville from the ocean?

Jacksonville is home to 22 miles of beautiful white sand beaches. Find out everything you need to know about hitting the beach during your trip to Jacksonville.

Are Jacksonville beaches nice?

Flanked by some of the most luscious sands on the northeastern coast of Florida, this bustling metropolis is one of the best places to visit for those hoping for a quiet, laid-back beach experience. Dubbed the “River city by the sea,” Jacksonville is a hot spot for nature lovers.

Are there alligators in Jacksonville Florida?

A new University of North Florida study looked at the population of alligators living in Jacksonville, specifically in tributaries of the St. Johns River. JACKSONVILLE, Fla. … These tributaries are far enough from the mouth of the river that alligators actually do live in these waters.

What’s the blackest city in America?

New York city had the largest number of people reporting as Black with about 2.3 million, followed by Chicago, 1.1 million, and Detroit, Philadelphia and Houston, which had between 500,000 and 1 million each.

Is Jacksonville a poor city?

The Poverty Rate across the state of Florida is 15.5%, meaning Jacksonville has a slightly higher than average percentage of residents below the poverty line when compared to the rest of Florida.

Poverty Rate in Jacksonville, Florida.
City Poverty Rate
Jacksonville Beach 7.5%
Neptune Beach 12.8%