If you’re looking for a home in Jacksonville, FL this year, exploring the cities nearby might be your best bet. These neighboring cities offer a unique blend of coastal charm and urban convenience, providing a variety of options for both renters and buyers. Live close to Jacksonville’s vibrant culture and beautiful beaches while enjoying more affordable housing options. In this Redfin article, you can compare rent and housing costs, learn commute times, and find something that fits your budget and preferences.
1. St. Augustine
Average commute to Jacksonville: 45 min Median home sale price: $509,500 Average rent: $1,479
St. Augustine is great for: Historical sites, coastal living, cultural events
St. Augustine, known as the oldest city in the U.S., offers a unique blend of historical charm and coastal living. The city is famous for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture and landmarks like the Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th-century Spanish stone fortress with views of the St. Augustine Inlet. The vibrant downtown area is filled with quaint shops, restaurants, and museums, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
The local economy is bolstered by tourism, education, and healthcare sectors, with Flagler College being a significant contributor. Residents enjoy a laid-back lifestyle with easy access to beautiful beaches, parks, and cultural events such as the annual Nights of Lights festival. St. Augustine is also known for its strong community spirit and various initiatives to preserve its rich history and natural beauty.
Average commute to Jacksonville: 30 min Median home sale price: $295,000 Average rent: $1,245
Orange Park is great for: Suburban living, amenities, outdoor activities
Orange Park is a suburban town located just south of Jacksonville, offering a peaceful and welcoming atmosphere. The town is known for its excellent schools, parks, and recreational facilities, making it an ideal place for those seeking a suburban lifestyle. The Orange Park Mall is a popular shopping destination, featuring a variety of retail stores, dining options, and entertainment venues.
The local economy is supported by retail, healthcare, and education sectors, with several hospitals and schools providing employment opportunities. Residents enjoy a close-knit community with numerous events and activities throughout the year, such as the annual Fall Festival and Farmers Market. Orange Park’s proximity to the St. Johns River also offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities.
Average commute to Jacksonville: 45 min Median home sale price: $500,000 Average rent: $3,350
Fernandina Beach is great for: Beachfront living, historic charm, outdoor recreation
Fernandina Beach, located on Amelia Island, is a picturesque coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and historic charm. The town’s historic district features Victorian-era architecture, boutique shops, and cozy cafes, creating a quaint and inviting atmosphere. Popular attractions include Fort Clinch State Park, offering hiking trails, fishing, and a well-preserved 19th-century fort.
The local economy thrives on tourism, hospitality, and maritime industries, with the Port of Fernandina playing a significant role. Residents enjoy a relaxed lifestyle with plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, including golfing, boating, and beachcombing. Fernandina Beach is also known for its vibrant arts scene, hosting events like the annual Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival and various art shows throughout the year.
Average commute to Jacksonville: 30 min Median home sale price: $1,000,500
Ponte Vedra Beach is great for: Luxury living, golf courses, coastal lifestyle
Ponte Vedra Beach is an upscale coastal community known for its luxurious homes, pristine beaches, and world-class golf courses. The area is home to the renowned TPC Sawgrass, which hosts The Players Championship, attracting golf enthusiasts from around the world. The community offers a range of high-end amenities, including exclusive clubs, fine dining, and boutique shopping.
The local economy is driven by tourism, real estate, and professional services, with many residents working in nearby Jacksonville. Ponte Vedra Beach residents enjoy a high quality of life with access to top-rated schools, beautiful parks, and a variety of recreational activities. The area’s natural beauty and well-maintained neighborhoods make it a desirable place to live for those seeking a luxurious coastal lifestyle.
Average commute to Jacksonville: 40 min Median home sale price: $365,000
Middleburg is great for: Rural charm, affordable living, outdoor activities
Middleburg is a rural community located southwest of Jacksonville, offering a peaceful and affordable living environment. The area is known for its natural beauty, with numerous parks, forests, and waterways providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and horseback riding. Black Creek, a popular spot for kayaking and canoeing, runs through the heart of Middleburg.
The local economy is supported by agriculture, retail, and small businesses, with many residents commuting to nearby cities for work. Middleburg’s tight-knit community and slower pace of life appeal to those seeking a more relaxed and rural lifestyle. The town hosts various community events throughout the year, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie among residents.
Average commute to Jacksonville: 25 min Median home sale price: $510,000 Average rent: $1,379
Atlantic Beach is great for: Beachfront living, vibrant community, outdoor activities
Atlantic Beach is a charming coastal town located just east of Jacksonville, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant community. The town offers a relaxed beach lifestyle with a variety of outdoor activities, including surfing, swimming, and beach volleyball. The Beaches Town Center is a popular destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment, featuring a mix of local boutiques, restaurants, and bars.
The local economy is driven by tourism, retail, and hospitality industries, with many residents working in nearby Jacksonville. Atlantic Beach residents enjoy a close-knit community with numerous events and festivals throughout the year, such as the annual Dancin’ in the Streets festival. The town’s well-maintained parks, bike paths, and recreational facilities make it an ideal place for those seeking an active and outdoor-oriented lifestyle.
Average commute to Jacksonville: 40 min Median home sale price: $403,750 Average rent: $945
Green Cove Springs is great for: Small-town charm, natural springs, historic sites
Green Cove Springs is a quaint town located along the St. Johns River, known for its natural springs and historic sites. The town’s namesake, the Green Cove Spring, is a popular attraction, offering a picturesque park with a swimming pool fed by the spring’s clear waters. The historic district features charming architecture, local shops, and cozy cafes, creating a welcoming atmosphere.
The local economy is supported by agriculture, tourism, and small businesses, with many residents commuting to nearby cities for work. Green Cove Springs residents enjoy a slower pace of life with a strong sense of community and numerous events throughout the year, such as the annual Memorial Day RiverFest. The town’s natural beauty and historic charm make it an appealing place for those seeking a peaceful and picturesque living environment.
Average commute to Jacksonville: 35 min Median home sale price: $345,000 Average rent: $1,622
Yulee is great for: Suburban living, amenities, outdoor activities
Yulee is a growing suburban community located north of Jacksonville, offering a welcoming atmosphere and a range of amenities. The area is known for its excellent schools, parks, and recreational facilities, making it an ideal place for those seeking a suburban lifestyle. The nearby Four Creeks State Forest provides opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
The local economy is supported by retail, healthcare, and education sectors, with several new developments and businesses contributing to the area’s growth. Yulee residents enjoy a close-knit community with numerous events and activities throughout the year, such as the annual Yulee Holiday Festival. The town’s convenient location and affordable living options make it a popular choice for those looking to live near Jacksonville.
Average commute to Jacksonville: 25 min Median home sale price: $1,237,500 Average rent: $1,900
Neptune Beach is great for: Beachfront living, vibrant community, outdoor activities
Neptune Beach is a small coastal town located just east of Jacksonville, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant community. The town offers a relaxed beach lifestyle with a variety of outdoor activities, including surfing, swimming, and beach volleyball. The Beaches Town Center is a popular destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment, featuring a mix of local boutiques, restaurants, and bars.
The local economy is driven by tourism, retail, and hospitality industries, with many residents working in nearby Jacksonville. Neptune Beach residents enjoy a close-knit community with numerous events and festivals throughout the year, such as the annual Dancin’ in the Streets festival. The town’s well-maintained parks, bike paths, and recreational facilities make it an ideal place for those seeking an active and outdoor-oriented lifestyle.
Methodology: All cities are less than 50 miles away from Jacksonville. Median home sale price and rent data sourced from Redfin and Rent.com during June, 2024.
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Marissa is a Content Marketing Specialist on Redfin’s Content Marketing team. She has been with Redfin for 3+ years, where she has also contributed to real estate support operations. A California native living in Los Angeles, Marissa loves taking walks, enjoying sunsets, and unwinding with a good movie. Her dream home is a modern cottage-style abode with a lush garden.
