Are you in search of the perfect combination of affordability and quality of life in Jacksonville, FL? Look no further! This comprehensive guide will take you on a journey through the best affordable places to live in Jacksonville, FL, providing insights, personal experiences, and expert advice. Whether you’re a young professional, a family with kids, or a retiree seeking a peaceful retreat, Jacksonville has a place for everyone.
Looking for more inspiration on finding the perfect neighborhood? Check out our guide on the ‘5 Best Places to Live in Jersey City‘ to see how other thriving communities can help shape your decision when choosing your ideal home in Jacksonville, Florida.
Best Affordable Places to Live in Jacksonville, FL
1: Riverside: Where History Meets Affordability
Riverside takes the spotlight as one of the best affordable places to live in Jacksonville, FL. With its historical charm and thriving arts scene, this neighborhood draws individuals looking for a unique atmosphere. Riverside offers a variety of housing options, from charming bungalows to modern apartments, making it an appealing choice for those seeking affordability without compromising on lifestyle.
Riverside is a neighborhood in Jacksonville, Florida. It is located in the western part of the city and is bordered by the St. Johns River to the north, the Arlington neighborhood to the east, the San Marco neighborhood to the south, and the Lackawanna neighborhood to the west.
Population: The population of Riverside is about 13,000 people.
Fun facts about Riverside:
- Riverside is known for its historic homes and buildings, many of which date back to the early 1900s.
- Riverside is also home to a number of parks and green spaces, including Riverside Park, Spring Park, and Memorial Park.
- Riverside is home to the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens, one of the largest and most comprehensive museums in the Southeast.
Median home price: The median home price in Riverside is about $250,000. This makes it one of the most affordable neighborhoods in Jacksonville.
Home rental options: There are also a number of home rental options available in Riverside, from apartments to houses. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Riverside is about $1,200 per month.
Nearby parks and hospitals:
- Riverside is home to a number of parks and green spaces, including Riverside Park, Spring Park, and Memorial Park.
- The neighborhood is also close to a number of hospitals, including UF Health Jacksonville, St. Vincent’s Medical Center, and Baptist Medical Center.
Riverside is a great place to live if you are looking for an affordable, historic neighborhood with plenty of amenities and activities to enjoy. It is also a good place to live if you are working in the arts or healthcare industries.
Here are some of the best reasons why Riverside is considered one of the most affordable places to live in Jacksonville:
- The median home price is significantly lower than the city average.
- There are a number of affordable rental options available.
- The neighborhood is home to a number of parks and green spaces, which can help to offset the cost of living.
- The neighborhood is located close to a number of major employers, which makes it a convenient place to live for commuters.
Ultimately, the best place to live in Riverside depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for an affordable, historic neighborhood with plenty of amenities and activities to enjoy, then Riverside is a great choice.
2: San Marco: A Riverside Gem
San Marco, nestled along the St. Johns River, captures hearts with its tree-lined streets and Mediterranean revival architecture. This neighborhood boasts a mix of housing options, including cozy apartments and spacious single-family homes. Its proximity to downtown Jacksonville and a plethora of dining and shopping destinations elevates its allure.
San Marco is a neighborhood in Jacksonville, Florida. It is located in the western part of the city and is bordered by the St. Johns River to the north, the Riverside neighborhood to the east, the Ortega neighborhood to the south, and the Julington Creek neighborhood to the west.
Population: The population of San Marco is about 11,000 people.
Fun facts about San Marco:
- San Marco is known for its charming shops and restaurants, which line the streets of the historic district.
- San Marco is also home to a number of parks and green spaces, including San Marco Park, Friendship Fountain, and Hemming Park.
- San Marco is home to the Museum of Science and History, one of the oldest and largest museums in Florida.
Median home price: The median home price in San Marco is about $350,000. This is still more affordable than many other neighborhoods in Jacksonville.
Home rental options: There are also a number of home rental options available in San Marco, from apartments to houses. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in San Marco is about $1,500 per month.
Nearby parks and hospitals:
- San Marco is home to a number of parks and green spaces, including San Marco Park, Friendship Fountain, and Hemming Park.
- The neighborhood is also close to a number of hospitals, including UF Health Jacksonville, St. Vincent’s Medical Center, and Baptist Medical Center.
San Marco is a great place to live if you are looking for an affordable, walkable neighborhood with plenty of amenities and activities to enjoy. It is also a good place to live if you are working in the arts, hospitality, or healthcare industries.
Here are some of the best reasons why San Marco is considered one of the most affordable places to live in Jacksonville:
- The median home price is significantly lower than the city average.
- There are a number of affordable rental options available.
- The neighborhood is home to a number of parks and green spaces, which can help to offset the cost of living.
- The neighborhood is located close to a number of major employers, which makes it a convenient place to live for commuters.
Ultimately, the best place to live in San Marco depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for an affordable, walkable neighborhood with plenty of amenities and activities to enjoy, then San Marco is a great choice.
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3: Arlington: Affordable Living with Convenience
Arlington presents a delightful blend of affordability and convenience. With numerous parks, recreational facilities, and schools, it’s a top choice for families. Arlington offers diverse housing options, catering to both renters and homeowners. Its strategic location ensures easy access to Jacksonville’s major attractions.
Arlington is a neighborhood in Jacksonville, Florida. It is located in the western part of the city and is bordered by the St. Johns River to the north, the Riverside neighborhood to the east, the San Marco neighborhood to the south, and the Lackawanna neighborhood to the west.
Population: The population of Arlington is about 16,000 people.
Fun facts about Arlington:
- Arlington is known for its affordable housing options and its proximity to downtown Jacksonville.
- Arlington is also home to a number of parks and green spaces, including Friendship Park, Arlington Sports Complex, and Arlington Forest Park.
- Arlington is home to the University of North Florida, one of the largest universities in Florida.
Median home price: The median home price in Arlington is about $275,000. This is significantly lower than the city average.
Home rental options: There are also a number of home rental options available in Arlington, from apartments to houses. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Arlington is about $1,000 per month.
Nearby parks and hospitals:
- Arlington is home to a number of parks and green spaces, including Friendship Park, Arlington Sports Complex, and Arlington Forest Park.
- The neighborhood is also close to a number of hospitals, including UF Health Jacksonville, St. Vincent’s Medical Center, and Baptist Medical Center.
Arlington is a great place to live if you are looking for an affordable, family-friendly neighborhood with plenty of amenities and activities to enjoy. It is also a good place to live if you are working in the education or healthcare industries.
Here are some of the best reasons why Arlington is considered one of the most affordable places to live in Jacksonville:
- The median home price is significantly lower than the city average.
- There are a number of affordable rental options available.
- The neighborhood is home to a number of parks and green spaces, which can help to offset the cost of living.
- The neighborhood is located close to a number of major employers, which makes it a convenient place to live for commuters.
Ultimately, the best place to live in Arlington depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for an affordable, family-friendly neighborhood with plenty of amenities and activities to enjoy, then Arlington is a great choice.
4: Oceanway: Serenity and Affordability
For those in search of tranquility, Oceanway offers a serene escape while maintaining affordability. This peaceful neighborhood provides a range of housing options, from cozy starter homes to more spacious properties. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to parks, preserves, and the scenic Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve.
Oceanway is a neighborhood in Jacksonville, Florida. It is located in the northeastern part of the city and is bordered by the St. Johns River to the north, the Lackawanna neighborhood to the east, the Mandarin neighborhood to the south, and the Julington Creek neighborhood to the west.
Population: The population of Oceanway is about 30,000 people.
Fun facts about Oceanway:
- Oceanway is known for its affordable housing options and its proximity to the beach.
- Oceanway is also home to a number of parks and green spaces, including Oceanway Park, Hanna Park, and Julington Creek Park.
- Oceanway is home to the Oceanway Community Center, which offers a variety of programs and activities for residents.
Median home price: The median home price in Oceanway is about $225,000. This is significantly lower than the city average.
Home rental options: There are also a number of home rental options available in Oceanway, from apartments to houses. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Oceanway is about $900 per month.
Nearby parks and hospitals:
- Oceanway is home to a number of parks and green spaces, including Oceanway Park, Hanna Park, and Julington Creek Park.
- The neighborhood is also close to a number of hospitals, including UF Health Jacksonville, St. Vincent’s Medical Center, and Baptist Medical Center.
Oceanway is a great place to live if you are looking for an affordable, family-friendly neighborhood with plenty of amenities and activities to enjoy. It is also a good place to live if you are working in the tourism or healthcare industries.
Here are some of the best reasons why Oceanway is considered one of the most affordable places to live in Jacksonville:
- The median home price is significantly lower than the city average.
- There are a number of affordable rental options available.
- The neighborhood is home to a number of parks and green spaces, which can help to offset the cost of living.
- The neighborhood is located close to a number of major employers, which makes it a convenient place to live for commuters.
Ultimately, the best place to live in Oceanway depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for an affordable, family-friendly neighborhood with plenty of amenities and activities to enjoy, then Oceanway is a great choice.
5: Jacksonville Beach: Affordable Coastal Bliss
Imagine coastal living without the hefty price tag—Jacksonville Beach delivers just that. From beachfront condos to inland apartments, the housing options accommodate various preferences. Embrace a relaxed lifestyle while being a short drive away from downtown Jacksonville.
Jacksonville Beach is a city in Duval County, Florida. It is located on the Atlantic Ocean, just east of downtown Jacksonville.
Population: The population of Jacksonville Beach is about 22,000 people.
Fun facts about Jacksonville Beach:
- Jacksonville Beach is known for its beautiful beaches and its surfing culture.
- Jacksonville Beach is also home to a number of parks and green spaces, including Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park and the Jacksonville Beach Pier.
- Jacksonville Beach is home to the Jacksonville Beach Bandshell, which hosts a variety of concerts and events throughout the year.
Median home price: The median home price in Jacksonville Beach is about $391,804. This is higher than the city average.
Home rental options: There are also a number of home rental options available in Jacksonville Beach, from apartments to houses. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Jacksonville Beach is about $1,637 per month.
Nearby parks and hospitals:
- Jacksonville Beach is home to a number of parks and green spaces, including Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park and the Jacksonville Beach Pier.
- The city is also close to a number of hospitals, including UF Health Jacksonville, St. Vincent’s Medical Center, and Baptist Medical Center.
Jacksonville Beach is a great place to live if you are looking for a beach town with plenty of amenities and activities to enjoy. However, it is not considered one of the most affordable places to live in Jacksonville due to the high cost of housing.
Here are some of the reasons why Jacksonville Beach is not considered one of the most affordable places to live in Jacksonville:
- The median home price is significantly higher than the city average.
- There are fewer affordable rental options available.
- The city is located on the coast, which drives up the cost of living.
Ultimately, the best place to live in Jacksonville Beach depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for a beach town with plenty of amenities and activities to enjoy, then Jacksonville Beach is a great choice. However, if you are looking for an affordable place to live, then you may want to consider other neighborhoods in Jacksonville.
6: Mandarin: Comfort and Affordability
Mandarin strikes the perfect balance between comfort and affordability, appealing to families, young professionals, and retirees alike. Known for its lush greenery and historical sites, this neighborhood offers a range of housing choices, from traditional homes to modern townhouses.
Mandarin is a neighborhood in Jacksonville, Florida. It is located in the northeastern part of the city and is bordered by the St. Johns River to the north, the Oceanway neighborhood to the east, the Julington Creek neighborhood to the south, and the Fleming Island neighborhood to the west.
Population: The population of Mandarin is about 55,000 people.
Fun facts about Mandarin:
- Mandarin is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and its proximity to the beach.
- Mandarin is also home to a number of parks and green spaces, including Mandarin Park, Julington Creek Park, and the Mandarin Community Center.
- Mandarin is home to the Mandarin Museum and History Society, which preserves the history of the area.
Median home price: The median home price in Mandarin is about $275,000. This is significantly lower than the city average.
Home rental options: There are also a number of home rental options available in Mandarin, from apartments to houses. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Mandarin is about $1,000 per month.
Nearby parks and hospitals:
- Mandarin is home to a number of parks and green spaces, including Mandarin Park, Julington Creek Park, and the Mandarin Community Center.
- The neighborhood is also close to a number of hospitals, including UF Health Jacksonville, St. Vincent’s Medical Center, and Baptist Medical Center.
Mandarin is a great place to live if you are looking for an affordable, family-friendly neighborhood with plenty of amenities and activities to enjoy. It is also a good place to live if you are working in the healthcare or education industries.
Here are some of the best reasons why Mandarin is considered one of the most affordable places to live in Jacksonville:
- The median home price is significantly lower than the city average.
- There are a number of affordable rental options available.
- The neighborhood is home to a number of parks and green spaces, which can help to offset the cost of living.
- The neighborhood is located close to a number of major employers, which makes it a convenient place to live for commuters.
Ultimately, the best place to live in Mandarin depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for an affordable, family-friendly neighborhood with plenty of amenities and activities to enjoy, then Mandarin is a great choice.
7: Southside: Diversity and Convenience
Southside stands as a diverse and affordable choice for residents. With a blend of residential and commercial areas, this neighborhood ensures accessibility and convenience. A variety of housing options cater to a wide range of preferences, making Southside a melting pot of cultures and lifestyles.
Southside is a neighborhood in Jacksonville, Florida. It is located in the southeastern part of the city and is bordered by the St. Johns River to the north, the Arlington neighborhood to the east, the Baymeadows neighborhood to the south, and the Bartram Park neighborhood to the west.
Population: The population of Southside is about 80,000 people.
Fun facts about Southside:
- Southside is known for its affordable housing options and its proximity to the interstate.
- Southside is also home to a number of parks and green spaces, including Southside Park and the Southside Community Center.
- Southside is home to the Southside Medical Center, a large hospital that serves the area.
Median home price: The median home price in Southside is about $250,000. This is significantly lower than the city average.
Home rental options: There are also a number of home rental options available in Southside, from apartments to houses. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Southside is about $1,000 per month.
Nearby parks and hospitals:
- Southside is home to a number of parks and green spaces, including Southside Park and the Southside Community Center.
- The neighborhood is also close to a number of hospitals, including the Southside Medical Center, UF Health Jacksonville, and St. Vincent’s Medical Center.
Southside is a great place to live if you are looking for an affordable, family-friendly neighborhood with plenty of amenities and activities to enjoy. It is also a good place to live if you are working in the healthcare or transportation industries.
Here are some of the best reasons why Southside is considered one of the most affordable places to live in Jacksonville:
- The median home price is significantly lower than the city average.
- There are a number of affordable rental options available.
- The neighborhood is home to a number of parks and green spaces, which can help to offset the cost of living.
- The neighborhood is located close to a number of major employers, which makes it a convenient place to live for commuters.
Ultimately, the best place to live in Southside depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for an affordable, family-friendly neighborhood with plenty of amenities and activities to enjoy, then Southside is a great choice.
FAQs About Best Affordable Places to Live in Jacksonville, FL
Can I find affordable housing close to downtown Jacksonville?
Absolutely! Neighborhoods like Riverside and San Marco offer affordable housing options while being conveniently located near downtown Jacksonville’s amenities.
Which neighborhoods are family-friendly in Jacksonville, FL?
Arlington and Mandarin are excellent choices for families, offering great schools, parks, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Is it possible to enjoy coastal living without high costs?
Indeed, Jacksonville Beach provides affordable coastal living with a range of housing options, allowing you to savor the beach lifestyle without breaking the bank.
What kind of amenities can I find in the Oceanway neighborhood?
Oceanway offers access to parks, nature preserves, and the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities.
Is Southside a diverse neighborhood?
Absolutely! Southside’s mix of residential and commercial areas makes it a hub of various cultures and lifestyles, catering to diverse preferences.
Can I find modern housing options in Jacksonville?
Certainly! Many neighborhoods, including Riverside and San Marco, provide a mix of traditional and modern housing choices to suit different preferences.
Conclusion
Exploring the best affordable places to live in Jacksonville, FL, is a thrilling journey brimming with opportunities. Whether you’re drawn to Riverside’s historical allure, Jacksonville Beach’s coastal charm, or Mandarin’s suburban tranquility, Jacksonville offers something for everyone’s taste and budget. The diverse neighborhoods featured in this guide epitomize the city’s rich culture, convenience, and affordability. Don’t hesitate to explore these options and find your dream home in this vibrant and welcoming city.
