Living near the beach with a thriving city not far away is a perfect location for many people. It’s a big reason Jacksonville, Florida has continued to increase in popularity. In fact, Jacksonville is the most populous city in Florida, and there are many reasons people flock to this beautiful area.
This bustling town sits on the top of Florida’s Atlantic coast and has charmed visitors and residents alike since its founding in the early 1820s. The beautiful views and excellent dining options are just some of the perks residents enjoy while living here.
If you’re considering moving to J-Ville, you must know some essential things before deciding. Gathering information like the best renters insurance in Jacksonville, the cost of living, and the local activities can help determine if moving to this exciting city is right for you.
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Pros of Living in Jacksonville
Before determining if Jacksonville is the right place for you, you’ll likely want to consider some of the pros this beautiful city offers. There are many positive factors to look at when comparing Jacksonville to other areas.
Jacksonville Offers a Low Cost of Living
When moving to a new location, many people want to consider how much it will cost to move there. Housing, rent, and food costs are also significant factors to check before deciding whether or not to relocate.
Jacksonville offers a relatively low cost of living compared to many other locations. The median price to purchase a home in this area is just under $300,000, which may likely be cheaper than in many other large cities.
If you’re a renter, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to discover that the average rent in J-Ville is around $1,700 a month. This price can typically get you an apartment just under 1,000 square feet.
Jacksonville’s overall cost of living sits below the national average, making it a great place to relocate, especially if you want to save money on living expenses.
There’s No Shortage of Beaches in Jacksonville
If your main draw to the Sunshine State is the beaches, you’ll be pleased to know Jacksonville has you more than covered. This seaside town offers the most shoreline of any city in the United States.
There are four main beaches in Jacksonville, and each offers its own unique atmosphere for you to enjoy. There are also plenty of beach activities you can try, such as surfing, fishing, paddle boarding, and diving.
Dog lovers will also be happy to know many of J-Ville’s beaches are extremely dog friendly. During the off-season of October 1 through March 31, there are no limits to how long you and your furry friend can enjoy the beach.
During peak season, dogs are not permitted on the beach between 9 am and 5 pm. There are also strict rules about leashing your pet while enjoying the beach with them, so be sure to keep your dog on its leash at all times.
Jacksonville Offers Ideal Weather Year-Round
If you dislike cold weather and snowstorms, you’ll be happy to know Jacksonville rarely sees snowfall. The last notable snowstorm to hit was way back in 1989, so you won’t have to worry about harsh winters in this city.
Even during the winter months, Jacksonville still only sees low temperatures of about 45 degrees and highs around 65 degrees. However, the summer months do get warm in this beach town. High temperatures can reach the low 90s for an average high during the summer.
Jacksonville also sees an average of 221 days of sunshine a year, which makes excellent weather for outdoor activities and plenty of beach days.
Cons of Living in Jacksonville
While there are many pros to moving to this beautiful beach city, it’s not without its faults. There are some aspects of Jacksonville that may leave you hesitant to relocate.
Jacksonville’s Crime Rate Is High Compared to Other Cities
Many people consider the crime rate when moving to a new location. Unfortunately, Jacksonville ranks higher than other cities in Florida — and the country — in crime.
Jacksonville only ranks 11% safer than other towns compared to all U.S. cities. If crime is a significant concern, J-Ville may not be your ideal location.
Keep in mind when considering Jacksonville that the crime rate can affect more than just your personal safety. Your insurance company will also take into account your new location and your chances of being the victim of a crime.
If you move from a relatively safe city to one that has a higher crime rate, your insurance company may raise your rates as they see a higher risk involved in your coverage. This can apply to any insurance coverage you require, such as home, auto, and even renters.
Unemployment Rates Are Higher in Jacksonville
If you move to Jacksonville with a job offer lined up, you may not worry much about the job market. However, it’s important to consider career opportunities in your new location.
Anything can happen throughout your career, and you may find yourself out of a job for various reasons. Since Jacksonville doesn’t offer a booming job market, it may be challenging for you to find new job opportunities should the need arise.
Tech jobs are scarce in Jacksonville, and only three Fortune 500 companies are in the area. This could make it challenging to find a job in your area of expertise.
Some jobs that are always in demand, such as nurses, may fare better in landing another position. But if you have a specialized job niche, you may struggle to find new employment.
Considering All Factors Before Moving to Jacksonville
If you’ve been considering moving to Jacksonville, it’s essential to examine all factors before deciding. While this bustling beach city has a lot to offer its residents, such as a low cost of living, miles of beautiful shoreline, and excellent weather, it’s not without its faults.
Jacksonville has a higher-than-average crime rate and a lacking job market. While these may not be off putting to everyone, they can be a deciding factor for some.
Using this information can help you decide if relocating is right for you. Ultimately, whether or not Jacksonville is your ideal city will depend on your preferences and priorities.
Alexandra Arcand writes and researches for the insurance comparison site, Clearsurance.com. She is an avid traveler who enjoys researching different locations and sharing her knowledge with others.
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