Moving to Jacksonville

Question

Thinking of moving to Jacksonville. Which parts of town are nice places to live. Hopefully, away from the congestion.

Answer

Jacksonville is a large city with diverse neighborhoods, and the “best” area really depends on your lifestyle preferences, commute, and budget. If you’re looking to avoid congestion and want a more relaxed, residential feel, there are several neighborhoods and suburbs that are popular for families and professionals alike.

Some nice areas to consider:

San Marco: A charming, historic neighborhood with tree-lined streets, boutique shops, and local restaurants. It has a suburban feel while still being close to downtown.
Riverside/Avondale: Known for its historic homes, trendy restaurants, and cultural vibe. It’s walkable and scenic, though parts can be busy near the riverfront.
Mandarin: Located south of the city, Mandarin offers a quieter suburban atmosphere, good schools, and access to parks and the St. Johns River.
Julington Creek/ St. Johns area: Further south, this area has newer developments, top-rated schools, and is favored by families. Traffic is lighter compared to more central areas.
Beaches (Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach, Jacksonville Beach): If you like coastal living, these neighborhoods have a laid-back feel, beautiful beaches, and still reasonable commuting options into downtown.

Areas to be cautious of if trying to avoid congestion include the more central downtown areas, parts of Arlington near the I-95/I-295 junctions, and some of the rapidly developing commercial corridors along Beach Blvd or Atlantic Blvd, which can see heavy traffic during rush hours.

Overall, for a move focusing on comfort, safety, and lower congestion, suburbs like Mandarin, Julington Creek, or the beach communities are highly recommended. Riverside, Avondale, and San Marco offer charm and walkability but can be busier, particularly on weekends.