Relocating to Jacksonville, Florida: Your Essential City Guide

Jacksonville is the largest city in Florida, known for its beautiful beaches, thriving cultural scene, and rich history. If you’re considering relocating to Jacksonville, you’ll be pleased to know that it’s located on the banks of the St. Johns River. Offering residents and visitors a wide range of outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, and hiking.

The city is home to several museums, including the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens. The Museum of Science and History, and the Kingsley Plantation, which offers visitors a glimpse into Florida’s colonial past. Jacksonville also has a thriving arts and culture scene, with many galleries, theaters, and music venues throughout the city. With its warm climate, friendly locals, and amenities, Jacksonville is a great place to call home.

The city boasts a vibrant population and a growing economy, making it an attractive destination for people from all walks of life. There are numerous neighborhoods, each with unique character and charm. The Beaches, for example, is a popular area for young professionals and families. With its miles of beautiful beaches, restaurants, and nightlife. Other popular neighborhoods include Riverside, Avondale, and San Marco, all of which offer a mix of historic architecture, trendy shops, and local restaurants.

 


Economy 

Jacksonville’s economy is expected to continue growing and diversifying in the coming years, with a focus on innovation and entrepreneurship. The city provides ample opportunities for large and small businesses to thrive, making it an attractive location for those looking to start or expand their operations.

Finance – The financial services industry remains a key contributor to the city’s economy. Companies such as JPMorgan Chase, Wells Fargo, and Bank of America employ thousands of people in the area. Jacksonville has become a hub for the insurance industry, with companies such as Fidelity National Financial, Allstate, and State Farm having a significant presence in the city.

Manufacturing – Jacksonville’s manufacturing industry has seen significant growth in recent years. Companies such as Boeing, Northrop Grumman, and GE Aviation establishing operations in the area. The logistics industry is also thriving, thanks partly to the city’s location on the coast and its well-connected transportation infrastructure. Companies such as Amazon, UPS, and FedEx have invested heavily in the area, increasing employment in these sectors.

Tourism – Furthermore, the tourism industry has remained strong despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Jacksonville’s beautiful beaches, parks, and attractions continue to draw visitors from all over the world, providing a boost to the local economy.

Attractions

Jacksonville, Florida, is a vibrant city with exciting attractions for those relocating to Jacksonville. Its close proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the St. Johns River offers an abundance of beaches, parks, and waterways to explore. For history buffs, there are historical sites such as the Kingsley Plantation and Fort Caroline National Memorial. Art lovers can explore the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens or catch a live performance at Jacoby Symphony Hall. Sports fans can cheer on The Jaguars NFL team at TIAA Bank Field or swing at one of Jacksonville’s many golf courses.

Here are some of the top attractions to add to your list:

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens: This 93-acre zoo features over 2,000 animals and 1,000 plant species, making it a popular destination for families and nature enthusiasts.

 

  • Beaches: Jacksonville has over 20 miles of beautiful beaches, including Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, and Atlantic Beach. Which offer opportunities for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing.
  • The Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens: This museum features over 5,000 works of art, as well as 2.5 acres of formal gardens and sculpture.
  • Museum of Science and History (MOSH): This museum features exhibits on a variety of scientific topics, as well as a planetarium and a giant screen theater.
  • Friendship Fountain: Located in downtown Jacksonville, this large fountain is a popular spot for photos and offers beautiful views of the St. Johns River.
  • The Jacksonville Arboretum and Gardens: This 120-acre nature preserve features hiking trails, picnic areas, and a variety of plants and trees native to Florida.
  • The Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra: This professional orchestra performs a variety of classical and contemporary music throughout the year. With concerts held at the Times-Union Center for the Performing Arts.
  • The Riverside Avondale Historic District: This neighborhood is filled with historic homes and buildings from the early 1900s.

 

Shopping and Attractions in Jacksonville 🛍️

Jacksonville, Florida, is a great place to go shopping and for entertainment. There are a variety of retail stores and shopping centers in the city. Some popular places to shop in Jacksonville include The Avenues Mall, St. Johns Town Center, Orange Park Mall, Regency Square Mall, and Gateway Shopping Center.


 

The Avenues Mall – is the largest mall in Jacksonville and one of the leading retail centers in Northeast Florida. It has over 1 million square feet of shopping space with over 150 popular stores. Like Macy’s, Dillard’s, JCPenney, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Sephora, and Apple Store. The mall also includes an indoor playground for children as well as food court options for dining.

St. Johns Town Center – If you’re relocating to Jacksonville, Another top choice for shopping in Jacksonville. This outdoor mall has over 170 retailers, including high-end luxury boutiques like Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co., Uno de 50, and more. It features numerous dining options ranging from casual fast food restaurants to upscale restaurants like The Capital Grille or Brio Tuscan Grille. 

Orange Park Mall – is an enclosed regional shopping center that hosts more than 120 stores. Including favorites like American Eagle Outfitters, Bath & Body Works, Hot Topic, and DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse. It provides shoppers with plenty of choices when looking for apparel and beauty products or electronics items; it even has a small play area for kids between 4 – 12 years old!

Regency Square Mall – Two-level indoor shopping center that includes around 100 stores such as JCPenney, Sears, Barnes & Noble Booksellers, and others, plus many yummy eateries. This makes this spot perfect to spend some quality time with your friends or family members! And if you’re looking for entertainment near Regency Square, there’s AMC Classic Regency 24 movie theatre. It’s just across from the mall where you can catch all the latest movies!

Gateway Shopping Center – It is one of the city’s oldest malls. It includes classic stores like Radio Shack (now Sprint), Belk Department Store, and Bealls Outlet Store. It also features newer additions such as Ross Dress For Less and Marshalls, making it a great spot for bargain hunters.

 

Food and Drink 🍔

Jacksonville, Florida is home to a vibrant selection of places for food and drink, making it an ideal destination for those relocating to Jacksonville. From classic seafood restaurants overlooking the St. John’s River, there’s something for everyone in this sun-soaked city. Hip craft cocktail bars line the city’s bustling downtown streets.

For some of the best seafood in town, visit The Fish Company on Bay Street. This cozy seafood spot serves up dishes like shrimp & grits, fresh-caught grouper, and sweet potato hush puppies. Or try one of the famous daily specials like “All You Can Eat Catfish” – it’ll have your taste buds singing!

Seafood isn’t the only thing Jacksonville has to offer – enjoy flavorful Italian cuisine at IL Desco Italian Restaurant near Riverside Avenue. This stylish eatery specializes in handmade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and beautifully crafted appetizers. Their extensive wine list makes IL Desco an ideal spot for date nights or special occasions.

If you’re looking for something different, head to 8th & Main Eatery & Bar in Springfield. This trendy bistro offers unique Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Like lamb kabobs with hummus and feta cheese and handcrafted cocktails like the Kentucky Mule made with vodka and ginger beer. For those wanting a more relaxed setting, 8th & Main also offers outdoor seating overlooking downtown Jacksonville.

Finally, for anyone relocating to Jacksonville, the only trip to Jacksonville would be to check out Cowford Chophouse on East Bay Street. Offering classic steakhouse fares such as grilled ribeye steaks, jumbo lump crab cakes, Wagyu burgers, and more. Plus, there is an impressive selection of fine wines worldwide. Cowford Chophouse is an ideal spot for a fancy dinner or celebratory meal with friends and family alike!

Hotels and Accommodation 🏨

Hotels and accommodations in Jacksonville, Florida, are plentiful and vibrant. Whether looking for a luxurious beachfront resort, a budget-friendly motel, or something in between, you’ll find plenty of options to meet your needs. From high-end resorts like the Ritz-Carlton and One Ocean Resort & Spa to comfortable boutique hotels. Like Aloft Jacksonville Tapestry Park and Hampton Inn & Suites Jacksonville Southpoint, there’s something for everyone.

For those considering relocating to Jacksonville, there are a variety of motels and inns near the city centre. Some examples include Best Western Plus Southside Hotel & Suites and LaQuinta Inns & Suites Airport & Cruise Port. Additional lodging choices include vacation rentals like Airbnb or VRBO listings, campgrounds, and RV parks. Whichever option you choose, you can be sure that hotels in Jacksonville provide modern amenities and excellent service that will make your stay enjoyable.

 

Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront: This upscale hotel offers stunning views of the St. Johns River and is located in the heart of downtown Jacksonville. It features a rooftop pool, a fitness centre, and several on-site dining options.

Omni Jacksonville Hotel: Another downtown hotel, the Omni offers elegant rooms and suites, a rooftop pool, a fitness center, and a restaurant and lounge.

DoubleTree by Hilton Jacksonville Riverfront: This hotel is located on the south bank of the St. Johns River, just a short walk from downtown Jacksonville. It offers comfortable rooms, a fitness centre, a pool, and a restaurant and bar.

Hampton Inn Jacksonville Beach/Oceanfront: If you’re looking for a beachfront hotel, the Hampton Inn is a great choice. It offers oceanfront rooms, a pool, a fitness centre, and a free breakfast.

Courtyard by Marriott Jacksonville Beach Oceanfront: Another beachfront option, this hotel features contemporary rooms, a pool, a fitness centre, and an on-site restaurant and bar.

Aloft Jacksonville Tapestry Park: This trendy hotel is located in the Tapestry Park area of Jacksonville and offers modern rooms, a fitness centre, a pool, and a bar.

Four Points by Sheraton Jacksonville Beachfront: This hotel is located directly on Jacksonville Beach and offers oceanfront rooms, a pool, a fitness centre, and an on-site restaurant and bar.

 

Education 🎓

Relocating to Jacksonville

Jacksonville, Florida, offers vibrant educational opportunities for students of all levels. The Duval County Public Schools system is the primary public school option, with various elementary, middle, and high schools. Private schools in Jacksonville offer a range of educational approaches, including Montessori, religious, and college preparatory schools. Higher education options in Jacksonville include several colleges and universities, such as the University of North Florida, Jacksonville University, and Florida State College at Jacksonville. For those who are relocating to Jacksonville, vocational schools, trade schools, and community colleges provide certification programs and associate degree options for students seeking career-focused education. Overall, Jacksonville offers a range of educational opportunities to support its student population’s vibrant needs and interests.

Jacksonville, Florida, is home to a variety of educational institutes, including:

 

  •     University of North Florida (UNF)
  •     Jacksonville University (JU)
  •     Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ)
  •     Edward Waters College (EWC)
  •     St. Johns River State College (SJRSC)
  •     Trinity Baptist College
  •     Southern Baptist Theological Seminary
  •     Keiser University
  •     ITT Technical Institute
  •     Fortis College
  •     Concorde Career Institute
  •     Everest University
  •     Kaplan College

 

These institutes in Jacksonville offer a range of degree programs, certification programs, and vocational programs in various fields, including business, education, nursing, engineering, technology, and more, making them ideal for individuals relocating to Jacksonville. Several vocational schools and trade schools in the area provide students with hands-on training in cosmetology, HVAC, automotive technology, and welding. Overall, Jacksonville provides a variety of educational institutes for students seeking to advance their careers or pursue higher education.

 

Jobs and Careers

Jacksonville, Florida, has a vibrant and vibrant job and career market. With its location on the Atlantic coast in northeast Florida, Jacksonville boasts a robust economy and numerous employment opportunities. An ideal site for new graduates and seasoned professionals alike, Jacksonville offers an array of job prospects across many industries. Such as finance, technology, healthcare, manufacturing, hospitality, and tourism.

The city is home to three major Fortune 500 companies: CSX Corporation, Fidelity National Financial, and FIS; these corporations employ thousands of individuals within their respective organizations. In addition to these major employers, numerous medium-sized enterprises are in various sectors throughout the city. Many other businesses have recently set up shops in the Jacksonville metropolitan area. Including aerospace companies such as Boeing and Lockheed Martin. This aerospace company such as Boeing and Lockheed Martin, make it an attractive destination for those relocating to Jacksonville.

The University of North Florida (UNF) provides many students with valuable experience that can help them find employment after graduation. The school’s Career Services Center helps students build their resumes and navigate the job search process. Through UNF’s JobLink platform, employers post job openings for current students or alumni who want to work in the Jacksonville area after graduating.

In addition to UNF’s JobLink platform, numerous local organizations exist to connect employers with qualified candidates. Organizations such as CareerSource Northeast Florida offer assistance with resume writing and provide resources that include career coaching services and industry-specific job postings. Also located in Jacksonville is WorkSource Florida, which assists individuals through grant-funded programs. Such as education grants or workforce training scholarships that can help open up more opportunities for potential employees looking for jobs within Florida.

Overall, for individuals considering relocating to Jacksonville, the city offers plenty of options when searching for employment opportunities; those willing to put forth effort can find positions ideally suited to their needs. With many positions available in various industries, including business services, healthcare services, and manufacturing—among others. Jacksonville provides a great place for individuals to pursue their dreams of having successful careers.

Sports and Activities 🚴‍♂️

Jacksonville, Florida is home to a wide variety of sports and activities. There is a range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and kayaking in the area’s natural setting. The city also has some excellent golf courses that appeal to both beginners and pros. For those considering relocating to Jacksonville, there are plenty of parks, gardens, and nature trails suitable for walking or jogging. For those who like their sports a bit faster-paced, Jacksonville is home to several professional teams, including the Jaguars (NFL), the Sharks (AFL), and the Suns (NBA G-League).

Some of the popular sports and activities in Jacksonville include:

 

  • Golf – You can discover the golfer’s paradise hidden within Jacksonville, where the greens are as inviting as they are challenging. Among these, the TPC Sawgrass Golf Course stands out, a prestigious venue that proudly hosts the annual Players Championship. It’s a must-visit for anyone who appreciates the game.
  • Water sports – For water enthusiasts, Jacksonville’s proximity to both the Atlantic Ocean and St. Johns River opens up a world of aquatic adventures. From the serenity of kayaking and paddle boarding to the exhilaration of surfing and boating, there’s something for every water sport aficionado.
  • Beaches – Jacksonville has miles of beautiful beaches, including Atlantic Beach, Jacksonville Beach, and Neptune Beach. These beaches offer swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and fishing.
  • Football – The Jacksonville Jaguars, a professional American football team, is based in Jacksonville and competes in the National Football League (NFL). The poolside cabanas at TIAA Bank Field offer a unique game-day experience, allowing fans to watch the action from a private pool and lounge area.
  • Baseball – The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp is a minor league baseball team that plays at the 121 Financial Ballpark in Jacksonville.
  • Running – The Gate River Run, a 15K road race, is one of the largest running events in the United States and takes place in Jacksonville each year.
  • Parks and outdoor recreation – One of the remarkable parks in the city is the sprawling Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail Trail, captivating outdoor enthusiasts with its extensive network of picturesque hiking and biking paths that span several miles.
  • Cultural activities – The city has a vibrant arts and culture scene, including museums, galleries, and performing arts venues like the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra and the Center.

 

Transportation 🚊

Transportation in Jacksonville is an important topic for residents and visitors alike. With its many bridges, streets, and highways, Jacksonville offers a variety of transportation options. The city has an extensive bus network operated by the Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA). There are over 400 buses and trolleys that serve 40 million riders annually. JTA also operates Skyway, Florida’s first fully automated people mover system. It has three lines connecting downtown with San Marco, Southbank, and LaVilla.

In addition, several major highways in Jacksonville connect the city to other parts of Florida. These include I-10, I-95, US 1, and State Road 202 (the Beachline Expressway). The city also boasts one of the most extensive bridge networks in the United States, with eight bridges spanning the St. Johns River alone. This includes two cable-stayed bridges: the Main Street Bridge and the Fuller Warren Bridge, which offer stunning views of downtown Jacksonville.

For those who prefer to travel by air, there is an international airport nearby Cecil Field Airport, and smaller private airports around town, including Craig Municipal Airport and Herlong Recreational Airport. For those relocating to Jacksonville, many ferry services are available between Mayport Village on Fort George Island and Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island.

 

 

RELOCATING TO JACKSONVILLE 🏠

Relocating to a new city can be daunting, especially if you’re unfamiliar. A relocation company can make relocating to Jacksonville much more accessible by offering services and resources to help you settle into your new home. Whether you’re moving for work, family, or personal reasons, a relocation company like relo.ai can make the transition much smoother and more manageable.

Here are some of the benefits of using a relocation company:

Save time and reduce stress: Moving to a new city can be stressful and time-consuming, especially if you’re unfamiliar. A relocation company can handle many details for you, such as finding a new home, arranging moving services, and helping you settle into your new city. This can save you time and reduce the stress of the move.

Access to local expertise: A relocation company has local knowledge and expertise that can be invaluable when moving to a new city. They can provide information about neighborhoods, schools, transportation, and other amenities that can help you make informed decisions about where to live and how to get around.

Assistance with paperwork and logistics:

 

  • Moving to a new city often involves a lot of paperwork and logistics, such as obtaining visas and work permits.
  • Registering for utilities.
  • Enrolling in healthcare and other services.

 

A relocation company can help you quickly navigate relocating to Jacksonville and ensure everything is done correctly. Click here to schedule a free counseling session with one of our experts, who will guide you through the complete relocation process or moving to a new location.

 

Final Words

Jacksonville is a gem city with much to offer visitors and residents alike. Whether planning a short vacation or seeking a new place to call home, relocating to Jacksonville is an ideal destination that should not be missed. For those looking to relocate, Jacksonville is an excellent choice for several reasons. It boasts top-notch schools, safe neighborhoods, and abundant outdoor recreational opportunities sure to please nature enthusiasts. What makes Jacksonville truly special is the combination of exciting urban amenities and peaceful suburban charm. Its unique blend of attractions and amenities makes it an ideal spot for those seeking an exciting yet quiet place to call home. 

Plan a visit and consider relocating to Jacksonville today to experience the fantastic opportunities this vibrant city offers!

We are here to assist you with your travel plans, relocation, or retirement in Jacksonville.

 

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