[2023] Exploring the Bold City – A Comprehensive Guide to Jacksonville Florida

If you're looking for a vibrant city by the beach that's full of Southern charm and a unique culture, look no further than Jacksonville, Florida! Known as the "Bold City," Jacksonville offers a little bit of something for everyone, from beautiful beaches and scenic parks to world-class museums and delicious food. Our team at Jax Facts has put together a comprehensive guide to help you plan your trip or decide if Jacksonville is the perfect city for you to call home.

Quick Tips and Facts

Before we dive into the details, let's start with some quick tips and facts to get you excited about Jacksonville:

  • Jacksonville is the largest city in Florida by land area and the 12th largest city in the country.

  • The city has over 500 parks and 22 miles of beaches, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

  • Jacksonville is home to the largest urban park system in the country, with over 80,000 acres of green space.

  • The city hosts the world-renowned Florida-Georgia football game every year, which draws thousands of fans to the city.

  • Jacksonville is a hub for military and defense industries, with several military bases located in the area.

  • The cost of living in Jacksonville is lower than the national average, but the median home price is slightly higher than other cities in Florida.

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

Pros

  • Affordable cost of living: One of the main reasons many people choose to move to Jacksonville is the affordable cost of living. The city has a lower cost of living compared to other larger cities in Florida, like Miami or Tampa.

  • Great outdoor recreation: With miles of beaches, greenways, and parks, Jacksonville is an outdoor paradise. From kayaking to surfing, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy all year round.

  • Booming economy: Jacksonville has a diversified economy, with strong industries in healthcare, logistics, and financial services. The city is also home to several military bases, providing more job opportunities.

  • Rich history: Jacksonville has a rich history that's well-preserved in the city's museums, architecture, and landmarks. The city played a significant role in the Civil War, and visitors can explore the area's history at several historic sites.

Cons

  • High humidity: Because of its location near the Atlantic coast and the St. Johns River, Jacksonville has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. The humidity can be oppressive during the summer months.

  • Limited public transportation: While Jacksonville does have a public transportation system, it's not as extensive compared to other larger cities. This can make it challenging for those without a car to get around.

  • Traffic: Although Jacksonville is a large city, traffic congestion can be an issue during peak travel times.

  • Limited nightlife: While there are plenty of great restaurants and breweries in Jacksonville, the city's nightlife scene is not as lively compared to other cities.

Overall, Jacksonville is a great place to live for those who love the outdoors, history, and a strong economy.

Is Jacksonville FL an expensive city to live in?

Compared to other larger cities in Florida, Jacksonville is considered affordable. However, the cost of living in Jacksonville is slightly higher than the national average due to its growing economy and a higher median home price. Here are some of the main expenses to keep in mind:

  • Housing: The median home price in Jacksonville is around $250,000, which is higher compared to other cities in Florida. However, it's still below the national average.

  • Transportation: Owning a car is essential in Jacksonville, as the public transportation system is limited. Gas prices are around the national average.

  • Food: The cost of food in Jacksonville is around the national average. There are plenty of local restaurants and breweries, which are affordable and delicious.

  • Utilities: The cost of utilities in Jacksonville is around the national average.

Why do people go to Jacksonville Florida?

Jacksonville has plenty to offer for visitors, from beautiful beaches to cultural landmarks. Here are a few reasons why people flock to the Bold City:

  • Outdoor recreation: Jacksonville is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The city has miles of beaches, numerous parks, and greenways for visitors to enjoy.

  • Beaches: Jacksonville has over 22 miles of gorgeous beaches, which are perfect for sunbathing, surfing, or swimming.

  • Cultural landmarks: Jacksonville has a rich history that's celebrated in its museums, architecture, and landmarks. Visitors can explore the historic Riverside neighborhood, the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens, or the Kingsley Plantation.

  • Sports culture: Jacksonville is home to several sports teams, including the Jacksonville Jaguars and The Players Championship golf tournament.

  • Family-friendly attractions: Jacksonville has plenty of family-friendly attractions, like the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, MOSH (Museum of Science and History), and The Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary.

What is Jacksonville known for?

Jacksonville is known for its Southern charm, beautiful beaches, and rich history. Here are a few things that Jacksonville is famous for:

  • The Jacksonville Jaguars: The Jaguars are Jacksonville's NFL team, and the city is passionate about the sport.

  • The St. Johns River: The St. Johns River runs through Jacksonville and is one of the only rivers in North America that flows north.

  • The Florida-Georgia football game: Every year, Jacksonville hosts the Florida-Georgia football game, which draws thousands of fans to the city.

  • Jacksonville Beach: Jacksonville's beaches are wide and expansive, with soft white sand and gorgeous blue waters.

  • Military presence: Jacksonville is home to several military bases, including Naval Station Mayport and Naval Air Station Jacksonville.

What is there to do in Jacksonville?

There's no shortage of things to do in Jacksonville, whether you're a local or a visitor. Here are some of the top attractions to check out:

  • Beaches: Jacksonville has over 22 miles of beaches, each with their own unique personality. Some popular beaches include Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach, and Jacksonville Beach.

  • Parks: Jacksonville has over 500 parks, which range from large urban parks to small neighborhood parks. Some of the most popular parks include Hanna Park, Walter Jones Historical Park, and Treaty Oak Park.

  • Museums: Jacksonville has several museums, like the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens, MOSH (Museum of Science and History), and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

  • Sports: Jacksonville is home to several sports teams, like the Jaguars, Jumbo Shrimp, and Armada FC. Visitors can also catch a game of golf at one of the city's many golf courses.

  • Shopping: Jacksonville has several shopping destinations, like the St. Johns Town Center and the Jacksonville Landing.

Conclusion

Jacksonville, Florida, is a city that perfectly blends Southern charm, gorgeous beaches, and a unique culture. Whether you're planning a visit or a move, Jacksonville has plenty to offer. From stunning outdoor recreation to rich history and a strong economy, there's something for everyone in the Bold City. Just be prepared for the humid summers!

We hope you enjoyed our comprehensive guide to Jacksonville, FL. For more information and travel tips, check out the following resources:

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