Is Jacksonville a Good Place To Live?
If year-round sunshine, a thriving music scene, and miles of shoreline sound like your cup of tea, then a move to the First Coast might be just the thing for you. Jacksonville, FL, is the tenth-largest city by population in the United States, and each year, more and more people call the River City home. But beaches aside, there’s more to account for when choosing a new city to plant your roots in, especially if you plan on raising a family.
As a local staple here in Jax, we here at Atlantic Self Storage always advocate for our hometown—and we have the data to back it up! Read on to learn the facts about moving to Jacksonville, FL, to decide if our city suits your lifestyle.
What Is Jacksonville Known For?
Welcome to the River City! While NFL fans may know our town from our beloved football team, the Jacksonville Jaguars, and sitcom aficionados might recognize our name from Jax fanatic Jason Mendoza in NBC’s “The Good Place,” there’s a lot more to the Gateway to Florida than meets the eye.
Jacksonville was founded in 1822 and named for its governor, future President Andrew Jackson. But its history dates back centuries, when the region, first inhabited by the Timucua peoples, was fought over by French and Spanish settlers. Hundreds of years later, the city was impacted by the Seminole Wars and the American Civil War and eventually became known for German U-boat activity during the Second World War. Today, history and culture permeate every street corner in Jacksonville, marrying national significance with modern charm.
How Many People Live in Jacksonville?
In 2024, the population of Jacksonville, FL, exceeded 997,000, an increase of nearly 50,000 from the previous census in 2020. Jax is among the top 10 most populous U.S. cities and the fourth-largest-gaining city in the nation!
Why Are People Moving to Jacksonville?
Beyond its appealing climate and culture, Jacksonville has the second-hottest job market in the country, according to a ranking by the Wall Street Journal. Additionally, the cost of living in Jacksonville, FL, is 7% lower than the national average, contributing to the city’s already high quality of life with a booming economy and revered universities.
Is Jacksonville, Florida, Safe?
While in the past Jacksonville was known as the “murder capital of Florida,” the city has had its lowest homicide rates in over a decade with sub-100 instances. Although Jax has a crime rate 66% higher than the national average, it is still lower than most major cities. And as the largest city by land area in the lower 48 states, instances of crime are more saturated, with several neighborhoods reporting incredibly safe numbers.
It’s worth noting that most incidents in Jacksonville involve property theft rather than violence, which is typical for cities of the same size across the U.S. Taking simple steps like locking your car, using home security systems, and staying in familiar areas at night can help you feel safer.
Reasons To Move to Jacksonville, FL
Job Market in Jacksonville, FL
As we mentioned previously, the Jacksonville job market is only getting hotter. Whether you’re drawn to the hospitality industry in this vacation destination, seeking military or civilian job opportunities on one of multiple area military bases, or want to dip your toe in the transportation industry, you can do it all in Jax.
The 2023 unemployment rate was 0.3% below the national average, and the city is renowned as one of the best places in the nation to retire. See below for some of the largest employers in Jacksonville:
- FIS
- CSX Corporation
- Fidelity National Financial
- FRP Holdings
- Baptist Health
- Landstar System, Inc.
- Dun & Bradstreet
- Gate Petroleum
Schools in Jacksonville, FL
For students and professionals alike, northeast Florida is a hub for quality public and private research universities. No matter what college experience you seek, you’re sure to find a school that suits your fancy.
- University of North Florida
- Florida State College at Jacksonville
- Jacksonville University
- Edward Waters University
- Chamberlain University
Attractions in Jacksonville, FL
Who said life in Jacksonville was all work and no play? Everyone can find their niche here in Jax, from sports fanatics to art enthusiasts. Here are a few of the most notable things to do in Jacksonville:
- Jacksonville Jazz Festival. Did you know that Jax is considered a major hub for music festivals? The Jacksonville Jazz Festival is one of the largest in the country, and jazz legends have graced this iconic stage by the river through the years.
- The Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens. Founded in 1958, the Cummer Museum features exhibitions and stunning gardens, creating an inviting space in Jacksonville dedicated to making art accessible to everyone.
- Museum of Science and History. Nicknamed MOSH, Jacksonville’s Museum of Science and History features exhibits on Florida’s history, oceanic life, energy, and more, plus programs supporting local artists.
- Jacksonville Jaguars. Jaxsons unite behind the Jaguars, a cherished part of the community. From tailgates to citywide events, show your pride and cheer on the Cardiac Cats at EverBank Stadium!
- Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve. Jacksonville is home to North America’s largest urban park system, and among its best parks is the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve. Explore Fort Caroline’s storied past, hike scenic trails, and fish at Cedar Point—all surrounded by 6,000 years of human history and natural beauty.
Settle In Here in Jacksonville With the Help of Atlantic Self Storage
As you make Jax your new home, you’ll want space to spare for when life happens. Atlantic Self Storage isn’t just your go-to choice for residential storage across Jacksonville—we’re also proud to be an official partner of esteemed local sports teams like the Jaguars!
Find the perfect storage unit solution at a nearby Atlantic Self Storage facility, and contact us today to secure your spot!