Jacksonville, Florida, is a vibrant coastal city known for its sprawling beaches, scenic riverfront, and laid-back Southern charm. It’s the largest city by area in the continental U.S., offering a mix of urban culture, historic neighborhoods, and outdoor adventures. From the St. Johns River to the Atlantic Ocean, Jacksonville blends big-city energy with a relaxed, beach-town lifestyle.
Like many large towns, Jacksonville’s downtown area was the first part of the city that was settled, so it is the oldest and most historic. As you move south along the St. Johns River down to Mandarin, you will quite literally take a trip through the decades, as development moved south from downtown after the turn of the century. This make the homes varied, interesting, and unique.
No matter what you’re looking for, Jacksonville will have something to fit the bill perfectly!
riverside-avondale
Riverside and Avondale are twin neighborhoods west of Downtown, celebrated for their early 20th-century architecture, tree-lined streets, and bohemian flair. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the district offers indie shops, cafes, and nightlife, along with cultural gems like the Cummer Museum. Five Points, a lively hub within Riverside, offers indie boutiques, coffee shops, and nightlife. With walkable blocks and riverfront parks, this LGBTQ+ friendly enclave attracts creatives, young professionals, and families who value character and community.
The Beaches
The Beaches area includes Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach, and Jacksonville Beach, each with its own unique flavor yet united by sun-soaked coastal living. Jacksonville Beach is the most bustling, with a lively boardwalk, restaurants, and nightlife. Neptune and Atlantic Beach offer quieter vibes and are more residential, with upscale homes and boutique shopping where residents can enjoy oceanfront activities, outdoor recreation, and beach bars. All three provide a strong sense of community with proximity to the ocean so they’re perfect for those who crave salt air and sunshine with convenient access to the city.
San Marco
San Marco sits just south of Downtown Jacksonville along the St. Johns River, blending old-world charm with modern sophistication. The area is known for its stately, elegant riverfront homes and walkable streets with easy access to the Southbank Riverwalk. Cultural venues like Theatre Jacksonville and San Marco’s centerpiece, the iconic San Marco Square which offers a European-style plaza that includes fine dining, art galleries, and locally owned shops, San Marco blends elegance with urban convenience, making it a favorite for professionals and families seeking a stylish urban lifestyle.
Southside & Town Center
This vibrant area is anchored by the St. Johns Town Center, a sprawling open-air lifestyle complex with over 1.1 million square feet of retail, dining, and residential space. Southside offers a mix of suburban comfort and urban convenience, with housing options ranging from luxury apartments and condos to family-friendly subdivisions and golf course communities. The area is home to the University of North Florida and sits just minutes from Jacksonville Beach and downtown, making it ideal for students, professionals, and families alike. Residents enjoy amenities like TopGolf, iFly, and scenic parks, while nearby areas like Tinseltown and The Avenues Mall expand the entertainment and shopping options. With its walkable layout, diverse dining scene, and strong connectivity, the Southside & Town Center area is a top choice for those seeking a lively yet livable Jacksonville lifestyle.
Bartram Park
Situated near I-95 and Race Track Road, Bartram Park features a mix of townhomes, apartments, and single-family homes across several distinct subdivisions. Residents enjoy access to walking trails, fitness centers, and community pools, with shopping and dining options at the Shoppes at Bartram Park just minutes away. The area is zoned for highly rated schools and attracts young professionals, families, and retirees looking for a vibrant, low-maintenance lifestyle close to both downtown Jacksonville and St. Johns County.
mandarin
Located along the eastern banks of the St. Johns River, Mandarin blends natural beauty with rich history. Once described by Harriet Beecher Stowe as “a tropical paradise,” the area retains its tranquil character with quiet residential streets, waterfront parks, and preserved historical sites like Walter Jones Historical Park. Mandarin offers easy access to shopping and dining along San Jose Boulevard, in addition to top-rated schools, making it a popular choice for families and retirees seeking a peaceful yet well-connected lifestyle.
North Side
The northeast side of Jacksonville, stretching from Arlington to Oceanway, blends historic charm, natural beauty, and modern growth. Arlington, one of the city’s first suburbs, features mature trees, mid-century homes, and riverfront views near Jacksonville University. Farther east, the Fort Caroline and Monument Road areas offer peaceful neighborhoods surrounded by parks, the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve, and the Fort Caroline National Memorial. Crossing the Dames Point Bridge leads to the fast-growing Northside communities of Eastport, Oceanway, and New Berlin—areas known for newer construction, convenient access to I-295, and proximity to Jacksonville International Airport. At the farthest edge, Black Hammock Island and Pumpkin Hill Creek Preserve provide a serene retreat with sprawling wetlands, trails, and wildlife. Together, these neighborhoods create a diverse region where suburban comfort meets coastal adventure, attracting families, professionals, and nature lovers alike.