Florida Jacksonville
Moving to Jacksonville, Florida
Moving to Jacksonville, Florida offers a unique blend of urban living and natural beauty. With its sprawling beaches, vibrant arts scene, and diverse neighborhoods, the city provides a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers. Whether you're drawn to the historic charm of Riverside or the bustling energy of downtown, Jacksonville promises a rich tapestry of experiences and opportunities.
Jacksonville by the numbers
City population
City rank of cost of living
Median home price
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Discover Jacksonville: Top Attractions and Things to Do
Local Experiences
Local Experiences
Explore Jacksonville's Beaches and Parks
With 22 miles of pristine beaches, Jacksonville invites you to relax, surf, or fish along its scenic coastline. Notable spots include Jacksonville Beach, Atlantic Beach, and Neptune Beach, each offering their own charm. For nature enthusiasts, the city boasts over 400 city parks, such as the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve, where you can hike through diverse ecosystems and learn about the area's rich history.
Immerse Yourself in Arts and Culture
Discover Jacksonville's vibrant arts scene by visiting institutions like the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens, which houses an impressive collection of artwork and beautifully landscaped gardens. The Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville (MOCA) offers rotating exhibitions that showcase modern artistic expressions. Don't miss the Riverside Arts Market, a weekly event featuring local artists, live music, and a variety of food vendors.
Savor Local Flavors
Jacksonville's culinary scene is a melting pot of flavors. From fresh seafood at Safe Harbor Seafood Market & Restaurant to Southern comfort food at The Bearded Pig, there's something to satisfy every palate. Explore the eclectic eateries in neighborhoods like Five Points and San Marco, where local chefs bring innovative dishes to life.
Sports and Recreation
Sport and Recreation
Jacksonville, Florida, offers a vibrant sports and recreation scene that caters to enthusiasts of all kinds. Whether you're a fan of professional sports, enjoy outdoor adventures, or seek community engagement through recreational activities, Jacksonville has something for everyone.
Professional Sports Teams
Jacksonville is home to several professional sports teams that provide year-round entertainment:
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Jacksonville Jaguars (NFL): Experience the excitement of NFL football with the Jaguars, who play at EverBank Stadium. Jacksonville Jaguars
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Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp (Triple-A Baseball): Catch a baseball game at 121 Financial Ballpark and enjoy family-friendly fun. Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp
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Jacksonville Icemen (ECHL Hockey): Cheer on the Icemen at VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena during the hockey season. Jacksonville Icemen
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Jacksonville Sharks (NAL Indoor Football): Experience high-energy indoor football action with the Sharks. Jacksonville Sharks
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Jacksonville Armada FC (NPSL Soccer): Support local soccer talent with the Armada FC matches.
Adventures
Adventures
Jacksonville, Florida, is a haven for adventure seekers, offering a diverse array of outdoor activities that showcase its natural beauty and vibrant ecosystems. Whether you're paddling through serene waterways, hiking lush trails, or soaring above the treetops, Jacksonville provides unforgettable experiences for all ages.
Kayaking & Paddle Adventures
Explore Jacksonville's extensive waterways through kayaking and paddleboarding, immersing yourself in the city's rich aquatic landscapes.
Lofton Creek Kayak Tour: Ideal for beginners and families, this guided tour offers a peaceful journey through scenic creeks teeming with wildlife like turtles, otters, and occasionally manatees.
Adventure Kayak Florida: Offering rentals and guided tours at locations such as Hanna Park, this outfitter provides opportunities to experience Jacksonville's waterways, including family-friendly excursions.
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Adventures Up The Creek: Specializing in guided kayak tours and giant war canoe adventures, this company offers unique experiences on some of the region's most picturesque waterways.
Hiking & Nature Trails
Discover Jacksonville's lush landscapes and diverse ecosystems by exploring its numerous hiking trails and natural preserves.
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Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens: Spanning 126 acres, this urban oasis features a variety of trails through diverse habitats, offering a tranquil escape within the city.
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Fort George Island Cultural State Park: Rich in history and natural beauty, this park offers hiking and biking trails, as well as opportunities for boating and fishing.
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UNF Eco Adventure: Located on the University of North Florida campus, this program offers nature trails and environmental education experiences, promoting awareness of the natural world.
Seasonal Events
Seasonal Events
Jacksonville, Florida, offers a vibrant calendar of seasonal events that showcase the city's rich culture, community spirit, and festive atmosphere. Whether you're a local or a visitor, there's always something exciting happening throughout the year.
Spring Highlights:
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Spring Break for Families: As spring arrives, Jacksonville becomes a hub for family-friendly activities, with events and attractions catering to all ages.
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Hop Into Spring Easter Event: On April 18, 2025, Cuba Hunter Park hosts a delightful Easter celebration featuring games, crafts, and an egg hunt, perfect for families looking to enjoy the season.
Summer Highlights:
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Greater Jacksonville Kingfish Tournament: From July 10–20, 2024, the St. Johns River becomes a competitive arena for anglers in one of the Southeast's largest kingfish tournaments, attracting both professionals and amateurs.
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Jax Summer Fest: This multi-event weekend celebrates local talent, small businesses, and community spirit, offering a platform for entertainment entrepreneurs and educators.
Fall Highlights:
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Jacksonville Fair: Running from November 7–17, 2024, the Greater Jacksonville Agricultural Fair brings together carnival rides, live entertainment, and local vendors, providing fun for the whole family.
Holiday Highlights:
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City of Jacksonville Christmas Tree Lighting: On December 4, 2024, James Weldon Johnson Park illuminates with holiday cheer during the annual tree lighting ceremony, featuring music, food, and festive activities.
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Cirque Dreams Holidaze: A dazzling holiday production combining Broadway-style theatricality with the holiday spirit, offering a unique entertainment experience.
These events reflect Jacksonville's dynamic community and its commitment to providing diverse and engaging experiences for all.
Year-Round Activities:
Community Resources
Jacksonville, Florida, is not only known for its beautiful beaches and exciting sports scene but also for its essential community resources. Whether you’re moving to the city or just visiting, here’s a quick overview of Jacksonville’s hospitals, schools, and public resources that residents and visitors need to know about.
Major Hospitals in Jacksonville:
Jacksonville is home to several world-class medical facilities offering a range of services from emergency care to specialized treatments. The city’s hospitals are equipped to provide top-tier healthcare services for all needs.
Mayo Clinic Jacksonville: One of the most prestigious medical centers in the U.S., Mayo Clinic Jacksonville offers cutting-edge treatment for complex conditions. This hospital is known for its expert care in cancer treatment, heart health, and neurology. Mayo Clinic Jacksonville
Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville: A leader in healthcare services, Baptist offers everything from urgent care to advanced surgery and maternal services. Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville
UF Health Jacksonville: Providing comprehensive healthcare, including emergency and outpatient services, UF Health is a hub for medical education and patient care. UF Health Jacksonville
Jacksonville boasts a strong educational system with public, private, and charter schools serving K-12 students. The city is also home to a number of respected higher education institutions.
Duval County Public Schools (DCPS): Serving over 120,000 students, DCPS is one of the largest school districts in Florida, offering a variety of educational programs. Duval County Public Schools (DCPS)
The Bolles School: A private, independent school in Jacksonville known for its rigorous academics and exceptional athletic programs. The Bolles School
University of North Florida (UNF): UNF is a public university in Jacksonville offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. It is known for its beautiful campus and commitment to community engagement. University of North Florida (UNF)
Jacksonville provides a wealth of public resources to support its residents and visitors. From essential utilities to government services, public safety, and libraries, here’s everything you need to know about living and thriving in Jacksonville, Florida.
Utilities:
Access to essential utilities is a key part of life in Jacksonville. Here are the main providers for electricity, water, and gas services:
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JEA (Jacksonville Electric Authority): As the primary utility provider in Jacksonville, JEA offers electricity, water, and wastewater services to the city. Known for its reliable service and commitment to sustainability, JEA is one of the largest community-owned utilities in the U.S.
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Florida Power & Light (FPL): While JEA provides most utility services, some areas in Jacksonville may be served by Florida Power & Light for electricity. FPL is known for its energy-efficient solutions and excellent customer service.
Government & Safety:
The City of Jacksonville provides a wide range of public services to help residents access important resources, from city planning to public works and more.
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City of Jacksonville Government: The official city website offers access to services ranging from building permits to public notices and community updates.
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Duval County Government: Duval County provides vital services such as health and human services, emergency management, and the county courts.
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Jacksonville 311: For non-emergency city services, Jacksonville residents can use the 311 service to request assistance or report issues, such as potholes or broken streetlights.
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This city guide is provided as a service by Atlas Van Lines.