Best Neighborhoods in Jacksonville to Call Home

Welcome to our comprehensive guide to the best neighborhoods in Jacksonville! We've divided this guide into sections to align with your personal interests:

Downtown Jacksonville, Beach Neighborhoods, Suburban Neighborhoods, and Honorable Mentions. Each section highlights what makes these neighborhoods unique and appealing. Enjoy exploring Jacksonville's best neighborhoods!

Downtown Jacksonville Neighborhoods

San Marco

San Marco is a historic neighborhood known for its vibrant restaurant, bar, and shopping scene. Highly walkable, residents often stroll to dinner and entertainment venues, making it easy to enjoy a night out without needing a car. The area boasts excellent public schools and proximity to top private schools like Episcopal and Bolles. San Marco features a mix of historic homes, new builds, condos, townhomes, and apartments, with ongoing construction and renovations enhancing the community's charm.

Avondale

Adjacent to Riverside and Ortega, Avondale is another historic neighborhood near downtown. Its tree-lined streets are filled with charming homes and a variety of restaurants and bars, all within walking or biking distance. Avondale's close-knit community atmosphere and high walkability make it a popular choice for those seeking a historic and vibrant neighborhood. Ongoing home renovations add to Avondale's appeal, making it a favorite for both new and longtime residents.

Ortega

Ortega, slightly further from downtown but still considered "intown," is known for its grand waterfront homes, traditional houses, and historic bungalows. Residents often enjoy the dining and entertainment options in nearby Avondale and Riverside. Ortega offers several unique advantages, including the Timuquana Country Club, multiple marinas, and more affordable waterfront properties. Its picturesque urban park system and beautiful weather make it a highly desirable area.

Riverside

Riverside is an up-and-coming historic neighborhood near downtown, known for its booming food scene and eclectic atmosphere. The lines between Riverside and Avondale have blurred due to extensive home renovations in recent years. Riverside's growing popularity and walkability make it a trendy and sought-after location, attracting both locals and newcomers.

Mixon Town

Once an industrial district, Mixon Town has transformed into a trendy neighborhood with local breweries like Lemonstreet and Tabula Rasa. A mix-use development is underway, promising new dining, entertainment, and office spaces. Mixon Town features excellent public schools and Jacksonville Classical Academy, a premier charter school. Despite its growth, there are still opportunities for new residents to join this dynamic community.

Five Points

Nestled within Riverside, Five Points is known for its unique restaurants, shops, and attractions. The historic Sun-ray Cinema (originally the Five Points Theater) is a beloved landmark. This vibrant urban neighborhood, rich in character and charm, is surrounded by thriving residential communities, making it a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike.

Springfield

Springfield, just north of Downtown Jacksonville, is one of the city's oldest neighborhoods. Established in 1869, it features restored mansions, trendy restaurants, breweries, and art galleries. Springfield's historic streets and parks, lined with mature oaks, create a picturesque setting. The neighborhood hosts popular annual festivals like Porchfest and the Springfield Tour of Homes, attracting visitors from across the country.

Lake Shore

Developed in the 1940s and 1950s, Lake Shore is a walkable and drivable neighborhood with mid-century architecture. Many homes are built along the waterfront, providing marina access and boat storage. Lake Shore offers excellent public schools and an affordable cost of living, fostering a welcoming community atmosphere.

Murray Hill

Located between Avondale and Riverside, Murray Hill is becoming one of Jacksonville's hippest neighborhoods. Unique eateries, craft breweries, and local artisans contribute to its creative culture. The neighborhood features verdant parks and vibrant murals, creating an eclectic and inviting environment. Murray Hill's rapid transformation makes it a must-visit destination.

Beach Neighborhoods Near Jacksonville

Atlantic Beach

Known for its high property values, Atlantic Beach offers a neighborhood feel with easy access to the beach, restaurants, and shopping. Residents enjoy a laid-back lifestyle with golfing and top dining options nearby. A beach cruiser and a spare bedroom for visiting family are essential for Atlantic Beach living.

Neptune Beach

Situated between Atlantic Beach and Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach is a hidden gem with a mix of renovated homes and new builds. It offers great value for those seeking a beach lifestyle without the higher price tag of neighboring areas. Although smaller, Neptune Beach provides a cozy and appealing community.

Jacksonville Beach

The most affordable beach neighborhood, Jacksonville Beach is full of amenities, including restaurants, shopping, and grocery stores. The area hosts numerous events, from concerts and parades to art walks and air shows. Its vibrant community spirit and active lifestyle make Jacksonville Beach a popular choice.

Ponte Vedra Beach

Ponte Vedra Beach, technically in St. Johns County, is renowned for its top schools, desirable golfing communities, and high property values. Home to The Players Championship, this prestigious area offers luxury living with occasional opportunities for renovation bargains. It's a prime location for families and golf enthusiasts.

Suburban Neighborhoods Near Jacksonville

Mandarin

Mandarin is a large neighborhood known for its great schools, shopping, and restaurants. It offers a range of affordable housing options, as well as grand waterfront properties. Mandarin's blend of affordability and quality of life makes it a top suburb in Jacksonville.

Nocatee

Nocatee, a rapidly growing community in St. Johns County, features its own schools and amenities. With plans for nearly 10,000 homes, Nocatee offers a plethora of activities and a strong sense of community. A golf cart is essential for navigating this expansive area.

Julington Creek

South of Mandarin, Julington Creek is a St. Johns County community with top schools and affordable homes. The area is well-established with supporting businesses, making it a popular choice for relocations. Its easy resale potential adds to its appeal.

County Road 210/Northeast St. Johns

This large area in St. Johns County includes a variety of neighborhoods with top-rated schools. From affordable housing to upscale gated communities, the region is experiencing significant growth. Northeast St. Johns remains a major player in Jacksonville's top neighborhoods.

Honorable Mentions

• Fleming Island: A large community in Clay County with good schools, ideal for those preferring a quieter setting away from Jacksonville.
• St. Nicholas: A small, near-downtown neighborhood offering great value without the premium price tag of other in-town communities.
• Intracoastal East: Close to the beach with affordable housing, this large area is perfect for those seeking coastal living.
• Amelia Island: Great for vacation homes, Amelia Island is known for its retirement community and scenic beauty.
• St. Augustine: While a longer commute to Jacksonville, St. Augustine offers historic charm, great dining, and entertainment options.

Thanks for reading our Best Neighborhoods article! We hope this guide helps you find your perfect place in Jacksonville.