Relocation Guide for
Jacksonville FL

Relocation Guide for Jacksonville, FL:

Making Your Move Smooth and Stress-Free

Prepare for an easy move to Jacksonville, FL, with our Relocation Guide. Whether it’s from far away or nearby, we get that moving can be tough. But don’t worry! Our guide is here to help you at every step and make the whole process smooth and stress-free.

Jacksonville, Florida, is a great place to move to for many reasons. It’s known for its beautiful beaches, lively arts scene, and sunny weather, giving you a great quality of life. The city is a mix of culture and business, making it a cool spot for individuals, families, and businesses.

In our Relocation Guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about moving to Jacksonville. From figuring out the local housing market to finding the best schools for your kids, our guide is here to ensure a smooth move for you and your family. With our help, you’ll settle into Jacksonville smoothly and start feeling right at home in no time.

Getting to Know Jacksonville, FL

Population: As of 2024, Jacksonville’s population is estimated to be 967,176.
Economic Outlook: Jacksonville’s economy is expected to have a significantly stronger performance relative to the nation as a whole. The city has an extremely low unemployment rate and rising wages, suggesting healthy personal finances.

Exploring Neighborhoods in Jacksonville, FL

Jacksonville, FL, is a city with a diverse range of neighborhoods, each offering unique characteristics, housing styles, and community vibes. Here are some details about a few notable neighborhoods:

1 Urban Core

The Urban Core includes Downtown Jacksonville and surrounding neighborhoods. It’s the city’s central business district and the oldest section of the city. The area is known for its business opportunities and cultural attractions.

2 Arlington

Located east of Downtown across the St. Johns River, Arlington is one of the largest neighborhoods in Jacksonville. It’s known for its residential areas and historical sites.

3 Southside

Southside is a large, diverse neighborhood located across the river from Downtown. It’s known for its commercial and residential development.

4 Westside

Westside is a large area to the west of Downtown. It’s primarily residential and offers a variety of housing options.

5 Northside

Northside, located north of Downtown, is known for its natural beauty, including parks and preserves.

6 Beaches

The Jacksonville Beaches area includes several communities located along the Atlantic coast. It’s known for its relaxed, beach-town vibe.

If you’re a first time home buyer, check out our in-depth guide!

Housing Styles and Prices

Housing styles in Jacksonville are diverse, reflecting the city’s rich history and cultural diversity. Some of the most popular styles include Mediterranean, Traditional, Modern Contemporary, and Modern Farmhouse & Ranch Style. The average home value in Jacksonville is $291,955, with prices varying depending on the neighborhood and type of home.

Community Vibes

Jacksonville offers a small-town vibe despite its size. Each neighborhood has its unique characteristics, from the bustling urban atmosphere of the Downtown area to the relaxed beach-town vibe of the beach area. The city is known for its friendly residents, abundant amenities, and a sense of community.

Amenities

Jacksonville is packed with amenities, including shops, malls, museums, restaurants, and resorts. The city is also home to beautiful national parks and offers a variety of outdoor activities. Some of the top-rated tourist attractions include the Jacksonville Zoo, the Jacksonville Arboretum and Gardens, Catty Shack Ranch, and the Kingsley Plantation.

Education and Schools

Education in Jacksonville, Florida, is available through both public and private sources. The city is home to a diverse range of educational institutions, from primary and secondary schools to colleges and universities.

Public Schools

Public schools in Jacksonville are controlled by the Duval County School Board (DCSB), which had a 2009-10 enrollment of over 155,000 students, making it the 15th largest school district in the United States, and the 5th largest school district in Florida. The district has 160 regular-attendance schools: 105 elementary schools, 28 middle schools, and 20 high schools. The district also offers an adult education system, with night classes at most high schools.

Private Schools

Jacksonville is home to a number of private schools. Some of the top-ranked private schools in Jacksonville include Trinity Christian Academy, Jacksonville Country Day School, and The Foundation Academy. The average tuition cost for private schools in Jacksonville is $9,664, which is lower than the Florida private school average tuition cost of $10,523.

Universities

Jacksonville is home to several universities. The University of North Florida and Jacksonville University are among the top colleges in the area. Other notable institutions include Florida State College at Jacksonville and Edward Waters University.

Other Educational Institutions

In addition to traditional schools, Jacksonville is home to several other educational institutions. For example, the North Florida Educational Institute provides a supportive atmosphere that encourages collaboration and celebrates success. The Florida Institute of Education at the University of North Florida offers a range of programs and resources for students.

Employment Opportunities in Jacksonville, FL

Jacksonville’s job market is thriving and diverse. In fact, Jacksonville was ranked as the 5th hottest job market in the United States and the top market in Florida. The rankings measured five factors: the unemployment rate, labor-force participation rate, job growth, labor-force growth, and wage growth. The city’s private sector employment increased by 5.8 percent over the year in June 2022, adding 38,000 jobs.

Top Industries

While all types of businesses can find success in Jacksonville, the following seven sectors are targeted industries of the Office of Economic Development:

Advanced Manufacturing
Aviation and Aerospace
Finance and Insurance
Headquarters
Information Technologies
Life Sciences
Logistics and Distribution

Employment Trends

The Jacksonville area’s total nonagricultural employment increased by 5.2 percent over the year in June 2022. The city’s top exports are building materials, medical/health and beauty products, transportation equipment, food and restaurant equipment, construction equipment, packaging, generators, and chemicals.

Recreational and Leisure Activities

Jacksonville offers a wide range of recreational and leisure activities. The city is home to beautiful parks such as the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens and Little Talbot Island State Park. For art enthusiasts, the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens and the Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville are must-visit destinations.

There are numerous entertainment venues in the city. The Music Hall is a popular live music venue, while the Times-Union Center for the Performing Arts hosts a variety of performances. Sports fans can also catch a game at the VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena.

Local Events

Jacksonville hosts a variety of local events throughout the year. You can check out the official Jacksonville events calendar for concerts, shows, festivals, and all the entertainment the city has to offer.

Sports Teams

Jacksonville is home to several sports teams. The Jacksonville Jaguars of the National Football League (NFL) are the city’s major league professional team. The city also hosts some minor league and semi-professional sports teams, including the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp baseball team, the Jacksonville Icemen ice hockey team, the Jacksonville Sharks indoor football team, the Jacksonville Axemen rugby league team, and the Jacksonville Giants basketball team.

Outdoor Activities

Jacksonville offers a plethora of outdoor activities. From hiking and birding to kayaking and camping, there’s something for everyone. Some of the top outdoor activities include visiting the Jacksonville Beaches, exploring the historic Riverside and Avondale neighborhoods, and taking a stroll along the Riverwalk on the St. Johns River.

Practical Information for Relocators

Utilities

Jacksonville’s primary utility provider is the Jacksonville Electric Authority (JEA). They provide electricity, water, and sewer services. Other utility companies in Jacksonville include AT&T, Cricket Wireless, DIRECTV, DISH Network, Ferrellgas, Florida Power & Light Company, MetroPCS, T-Mobile, Verizon Wireless, and Xfinity Comcast.

Healthcare Facilities

Jacksonville is home to several healthcare facilities. The HCA Florida Memorial Hospital is a 454-bed acute care hospital that has been serving Jacksonville and its surrounding communities for over 50 years. The Baptist Hospital- Downtown Jax provides state-of-the-art healthcare. Other healthcare facilities include Aveanna Healthcare, Baptist Home Health Care, and several nursing homes.

Public Transportation

The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) provides bus services, a monorail system known as the Skyway, and a ferry service. The city also has a well-connected highway system for those who prefer to drive.

Essential Services

Essential services in Jacksonville include Essentials Massage and Facial and Absolute Essential Services LLC. The city also provides an Emergency Financial Assistance Program for temporary financial assistance with rent, mortgage, and/or utility needs.

Navigating the City

Jacksonville is the largest city in the continental U.S., offering a diverse range of neighborhoods and attractions. The city is known for its music and art scene, and it’s not far from other major cities. It’s also a port city, making it a popular spot for cruises. The Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway is a busy highway in the area.

Local Laws and Regulations

New residents should familiarize themselves with the local laws and regulations. The Jacksonville Ordinance Code provides comprehensive information about the city’s laws. New Florida residents must obtain a valid Florida driver’s license within 30 days of establishing residency. The city’s zoning laws are also important for new residents to understand.

How Sold With Lyle Can Help

Sold With Lyle specializes in making your move to Jacksonville, FL, as smooth and stress-free as possible. Our team of experienced real estate professionals is dedicated to helping you find the perfect home in Jacksonville that fits your lifestyle and budget.

Our Services

Neighborhood Tours

We offer personalized neighborhood tours to help you get a feel for the different areas of Jacksonville. Our knowledgeable guides will show you around, provide insights about each neighborhood, and answer any questions you may have.

Housing Market Analysis

Our team conducts a comprehensive housing market analysis to provide you with the most up-to-date information about home prices, trends, and opportunities in Jacksonville. We’ll help you understand the market so you can make an informed decision about where to buy.

Relocation Support

Relocating to a new city can be overwhelming, but with Sold With Lyle, you’re not alone. We provide end-to-end support throughout your relocation process. From helping you find a moving company to setting up utilities in your new home, we’re here to assist you every step of the way.

At Sold With Lyle, we understand that every client’s needs are unique. That’s why we offer a range of services tailored to meet your specific needs. Whether you’re moving to Jacksonville for work, retirement, or a change of scenery, we’re committed to making your relocation experience positive and hassle-free.

Ready to start searching for your first home? Check out the latest listing for houses for sale in Jacksonville FL!

Relocation Checklist

Relocating to a new city involves a lot of planning and organization. Here’s a comprehensive checklist to help you plan and execute a successful move to Jacksonville, FL.

8 Weeks Before the Move

Research: Start researching your new city. Learn about the neighborhoods, schools, local businesses, and recreational activities.
Budget: Plan your moving budget. This should include moving company fees, packing supplies, travel expenses, and any necessary accommodations.
Inventory: Make an inventory of all your belongings. This will help you decide what to take with you, what to sell, and what to donate.

6 Weeks Before the Move

Moving Company: If you’re using a moving company, start getting quotes and choose a company that fits your needs and budget.
Medical Records: Request copies of medical records for all family members. If you have pets, get their veterinary records as well.
School Records: If you have children, arrange for their school records to be transferred to their new school.

4 Weeks Before the Move

Utilities: Contact your utility companies to disconnect services at your old home and set up services at your new home.
Change of Address: Notify the post office, banks, credit card companies, insurance companies, and others of your change of address.
Packing: Start packing items you don’t use daily. Label boxes clearly with the contents and the room they belong to in your new home.

2 Weeks Before the Move

Service Your Car: If you’re driving to your new home, have your car serviced to ensure it’s in good condition for the journey.
Pack an Essentials Box: Pack a box with essentials you’ll need immediately after you arrive at your new home (e.g., toiletries, clothes, medications, important documents, etc.).

1 Week Before the Move

Finish Packing: Finish packing all your belongings. Make sure all boxes are clearly labeled.
Confirm Details with Moving Company: Confirm the date and time of your move with the moving company.

Moving Day

Walkthrough: Do a final walkthrough of your old home to make sure nothing is left behind.
Keys: Hand over the keys to the new owner or real estate agent.
Arrival: Once you arrive at your new home, check all items against your inventory list during unloading.

After the Move

Unpack: Unpack essential items first, then gradually unpack the rest.
Explore: Start exploring your new neighborhood and city. Find the nearest grocery store, pharmacy, hospital, etc.

Resources and Additional Support

Home Buying Guide:

A comprehensive guide to help you navigate the home buying process in Jacksonville.

Home Selling Guide:

A step-by-step guide to selling your home in Jacksonville.

Real Estate Market Reports:

Monthly reports on the latest trends and statistics in the Jacksonville real estate market.

Community Groups and Forums

Nextdoor Jacksonville:

A private social network for neighborhoods in Jacksonville where residents can share local recommendations and news.

Jacksonville Moms Blog:

A blog and forum for moms in Jacksonville to connect and share parenting tips.

Meetup Groups in Jacksonville:

Find groups in Jacksonville about various interests and start meeting up with the ones near you.

City-Data Forum - Jacksonville:

A discussion forum about Jacksonville on City-Data.com.

Local Networks for New Residents

Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce:

Offers resources for new residents and businesses in Jacksonville.

Welcome to Jacksonville Guide:

A guide provided by the city of Jacksonville for new residents.

Duval County Public Schools:

Information for families new to the school district.

Start Your New Chapter in Jacksonville with Sold With Lyle

Ready to make the move? We’re here to help! Sold With Lyle is committed to providing you with personalized relocation assistance and home-buying support. Our team of experienced professionals is ready to guide you through every step of your relocation journey.

To get started, schedule a consultation with us. We’ll discuss your needs, answer any questions you may have, and begin the process of finding your perfect home in Jacksonville.

Don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re looking forward to helping you start your new chapter in Jacksonville, FL. Let’s make your dream home a reality!

EXPLORE BY AREA

EXPLORE BY AREA

Relocation Guide forJacksonville FL