Jacksonville has been described as "the biggest small town you'll ever live in." While Jacksonville is one of the largest cities in the nation in terms of land mass, the city is also a patchwork of distinctive neighborhoods, each with its own style, ambiance and pride. The greater Jacksonville area is also known as "The First Coast," and includes communities in surrounding counties such as Clay, Nassau and St. Johns. With so many communities to choose from, First Coast residents are sure to find a neighborhood that fits their needs and dreams.

Each neighborhood, from the restoration of the Northside and Downtown to the booming growth of Intracoastal West has its own special appeal. Imagine being able to live on the beach and work looking over the river with only a 45 minute drive between.

Jacksonville communities

Beach Communities

Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach and Jacksonville Beach are the three communities between Mayport Naval Station and the area around Butler Boulevard. In addition to ocean access, the Beaches boast a variety of housing styles from cottages to condominiums and mansions, as well as outstanding public schools including a National Blue Ribbon school located in Jacksonville Beach. There are many restaurants, from upscale to casual, and the area boasts a vibrant nightlife and venues featuring live performances, festivals and cultural events. Recreational opportunities including camping, hiking and biking, water sports such as surfing and swimming, and terrestrial activities like golf and tennis. They are in season nearly year round thanks to the moderate climate.

Atlantic Beach

Bordered by Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park to the north, Atlantic Boulevard to the south and the Intracoastal Waterway to the west, Atlantic Beach offers a small-town atmosphere with easy access to the ocean. The town-center, located near the Sea Turtle Inn, is a popular gathering point with many quaint eateries and boutiques.

Jacksonville Beach

Just about any time of day, you can see people here biking or riding the waves. Cultural, music and entertainment events often are presented on the Sea Walk Pavilion stage which is the focal point of everything from blues festivals to the famous Crawfish Festival. Many entertainment and dining venues are enjoyed by residents here.

Neptune Beach

The newest and smallest of the Beaches neighborhoods, Neptune Beach has defined itself as the closest thing to peaceful suburbia at the beach. The ocean seems to cast a magical spell to calm and relax its nearby residents. Neptune Beach public schools are highly regarded.

Southside

Convenience and location make Jacksonville's Southside a popular place to live. Centrally located, the Southside is bordered by Arlington to the north and east, St. Johns County to the south and San Marco and I-95 to the west. This is literally the southernmost area of urban Jacksonville and is in the middle of all other Jacksonville communities. Surrounded by San Jose, Arlington, Mandarin and the Beaches, Southside has the area's largest grouping of apartment communities. Many new developments are less than a year old. Neighborhoods range from working class, single-family homes, condominiums and townhomes to upscale gated and golf communities with many amenities. Various parks offer a mix of playgrounds, swimming pools, trails, picnic and cooking areas, sports and multi-use fields, lighted tennis courts, concession areas and community centers. Commuting, shopping and recreation are convenient.

Mandarin

Bordered by both Julington Creek and the St. Johns River, Mandarin is rich in history and has been a popular family community for more than 20 years. Primarily rural until the end of the 1960s when developers discovered this area, Mandarin has grown steadily since. Quality education is a priority and real estate experts agree that Mandarin has excellent public and private schools. The community has several parks, marinas and more waterfront views than any other area in Jacksonville. Mandarin homes range from estates on the St. Johns River to small country homes with stables.

San Jose/San Marco

Another historical area, San Marco is famous for its curved streets which show off trees and scenic vistas. A mix of architectural styles reflect the residents' strong interest in the outside world. Many homes are within walking distance to a brick-paved road which leads to trendy shops, theaters and restaurants. San Jose and San Marco are bordered to the west by the St. Johns River and by U.S. 1 to the east. A popular area for young professionals, San Jose and San Marco are close to the river and downtown. The area features boutique shopping and entertainment in San Marco Square, and private country clubs and private schools along San Jose Boulevard. Spanish architecture is most common in this area. A number of public schools are within these neighborhoods, enabling students to walk to school.

Arlington

Arlington has abundant waterfront property, surrounded by the St. Johns on the west and north and the Intracoastal on the east. Fort Caroline National Park overlooks the site of a former colony of French Huguenots. Jacksonville University, Jones College and a small airfield are located in Arlington. There are many apartment complexes; homes come in all styles and price ranges. Arlington has easy access to schools, churches and downtown.

Fort Caroline

Fort Caroline is located 15 miles east of downtown Jacksonville on the southern shore of the St. Johns River. It's a glimpse of old Florida with breathtaking views of the river, rolling terrain and stately oaks. Families that live in Fort Caroline take advantage of the natural surroundings by hiking, kayaking and fishing.

Springfield

Historic Springfield and Downtown are defined by I-295 to the west, the Trout River to the north and the St. Johns River to the south and east. Downtown and Springfield offer opportunities for entertainment and the convenience of living near Jacksonville's business district. Preservation has been a catalyst in the revitalization of Springfield, located just north of the Downtown business district. Springfield is the largest residential historic district in Florida with wide streets and blocks of architecturally distinguished houses. There is renewed interest in living in the historic district of Springfield. Many are drawn to the charm of homes, circa late 1800s, that feature wrap-around porches, grand staircases and warm fireplaces. These homes are being bought and restored to their original glory.

Clay County/Orange Park

Located south of the city on the west side of the St. Johns River, Orange Park's rural pastoral qualities and proximity to Jacksonville make it a popular residential area. Orange Park is home to St. Johns River Community College, one of the region's major shopping malls, the Orange Park Kennel Club, country clubs, golf courses and medical facilities. Waterways are plentiful and easily accessible for boating, fishing, kayaking or jet skiing. Clay County has three other incorporated municipalities: Green Cove Springs, Keystone Heights and Penney Farms. Middleburg offers rural areas for hunting and bird watching.

Westside

Westside is a wide area that includes a collection of established neighborhoods: Argle, Riverside, Avondale, Ortega and Normandy. Many homes have been in families for generations. The area is close to downtown and has easy access to interstates, the airport and Beaches.

Argyle

Argyle is a relatively new neighbood on the westside that saw rapid growth in the mid-1980s. Originally ranch land, Argyle has become a popular and affordable choice for middle class families settling in Jacksonville.

Riverside

In the early 1900s, Riverside Avenue already had earned a reputation for being one of the most beautiful streets in America. Much of that distinctive architecture remains today in this historic district. The riverfront mansions still make a strong statement.

Avondale

Historic Avondale features homes that reflect the middle-to-upper income tastes in residential architecture of the 1920s. Known for the quiet, tree-lined streets, Avondale is home to hundreds of quaint bungalows and large gracious homes that retain their original gentility. Identifiable building styles include Prairie School, Art Deco, Classical Revival and Craftsman, among others. Residents also enjoy parks and a unique shopping and dining district.

Ortega

A historic settlement just south of Riverside, Ortega is bordered on three sides by water - the St. John's River, the Cedar River and the Ortega River. Here history and nature meet in this neighborhood characterized by rivers, parks, tree-shaded home sites and an eclectic collection of spectacular architectural styles. Many antebellum homes are located right on the river and the area includes hundreds of Southern Style mansions and turn-of-the-century homes. Mediterranean Revival homes sit side-by-side with Colonial or Tudor homes. The area's schools also have a fine reputation.

St. Johns County

St. John's County has become one of Florida's major growth areas. St. Johns County Public Schools were recently named by School Match, the country's largest school selection consulting firm as ranking among the top 14% of all of the nations school districts. Moreover, families are moving to St. John's County because of the natural beauty and the accessibility to many businesses and centers of employment. Its close proximity to premier shopping, grocery and specialty stores, beaches, business centers, marinas, schools, airports and family entertainment makes it one of the most sought communities in Jacksonville.

As you can see, there is a place for everyone in the greater Jacksonville area. Jacksonville has a lot to offer and I can assist you on your tour of one of America's fastest growing cities. Our neighborhoods offer a variety of options with opportunities to meet everyone’s needs. We have several exclusive neighborhoods highlighting grand estate homes, golf courses, manned gates and more. Lot sizes range from zero lot lines to 5-plus acre parcels if you prefer. Call or e-mail me for more information.