Welcome to Jacksonville, Florida, the largest city by area in the U.S.! This coastal city is known for the south-to-north flowing St. Johns River, the Jacksonville Jaguars (NFL), and its 22 miles of beaches. Whether you’re relocating for work, school, or a change of pace, Jacksonville has something for everyone.
Finding an affordable place to live in Jacksonville doesn’t have to feel like a scavenger hunt. To make your rental search easier, we’ve rounded up five of the most affordable neighborhoods in Jacksonville where you can stretch your dollar and thrive.
The five cheapest neighborhoods in Jacksonville in 2024 are:
West Side
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Jacksonville: $1,296/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in West Side: $1,149/month
- Median home value in West Side: $290,000
The West Side is beloved for its rugged charm and affordability. It offers a mix of residential areas, commercial developments, and sprawling nature reserves. Known for its friendly vibe and strong sense of community, this area has a laid-back lifestyle perfect for renters who want a little bit of everything within arm’s reach.
Things to do in West Side
Nature lovers will appreciate the expansive parks like Tillie K. Fowler Regional Park, which features hiking trails and picnic areas. Residents can also enjoy events and activities at the Jacksonville Equestrian Center and Cecil Community Center. For everyday needs and entertainment, there are numerous shopping plazas and dining options along Normandy Boulevard.
Transportation
West Side gives residents easy transportation options via I-10 and I-295. JTA bus routes make commuting and running errands hassle-free, and the location’s proximity to Naval Air Station Jacksonville is a bonus for those in the military.
Highlands
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Jacksonville: $1,296/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Highlands: $1,169/month
- Median home value in Highlands: $229,000
Highlands is a neighborhood located along the Trout River known for its affordability and welcoming atmosphere. The area is quiet and primarily residential, offering plenty of opportunities to settle into a relaxed lifestyle.
Things to do in Highlands
Nature enthusiasts can retreat to nearby parks such as Ray Greene Park, ideal for picnics, sports, or just taking in the fresh air. Fun can also be found at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens a short drive away. Shopping along Dunn Avenue ensures residents don’t have to sacrifice convenience for natural beauty.
Transportation
Highlands is conveniently connected through I-95 and I-295 for easy access to the rest of Jacksonville and beyond. JTA bus routes serve the area, making public transport another viable option for residents.
Central Jacksonville
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Jacksonville: $1,296/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Central Jacksonville: $1,187/month
- Median home value in Central Jacksonville: $200,000
Central Jacksonville is just outside the heart of the city, offering residents proximity to urban life while remaining surprisingly affordable. This neighborhood combines business hubs, cultural landmarks, and scenic views of the St. Johns River to create a unique culture you won’t find anywhere else.
Things to do in Central Jacksonville
Life in Central Jacksonville is full of opportunities for entertainment and leisure. Locals often frequent Hemming Plaza Farmers Market for fresh produce and artisan goods. An array of restaurants, coffee, shops, and craft breweries keep things interesting for residents. Downtown Jacksonville and Southbank are nearby, offering proximity to city attractions like EverBank Stadium, home of the Jacksonville Jaguars, and the Museum of Science & History, affectionately called the MOSH.
Transportation
Central Jacksonville has a robust JTA bus network that connects it to the downtown area and beyond. Additionally, I-95 and US-17 intersect nearby, ensuring easy road access to other parts of the city and to major destinations across Florida. The neighborhood is also bike-friendly, with dedicated lanes and rental options that make cycling a feasible way to get around.
Arlington
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Jacksonville: $1,296/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Arlington: $1,198/month
- Median home value in Arlington: $229,000
Situated along the St. Johns River and Mill Cove, Arlington offers suburban living alongside sprawling parks and preserves. Renters in Arlington enjoy access to scenic views, riverfront parks, and a wealth of recreational opportunities.
Things to do in Arlington
Arlington residents often gather at Blue Cypress Park, which offers a golf course, disc golf, and a stunning view of the St. Johns River. History buffs will enjoy exploring Fort Caroline National Memorial commemorating an attempted French colonial settlement in the 16th century. The Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens offer 120 acres of dog-friendly trails and gardens. The neighborhood is also located near the University of North Florida, offering easy travel to the college’s campus.
Transportation
Arlington residents benefit from proximity to Mathews Bridge, which connects the neighborhood to Downtown Jacksonville. Main highways such as SR-115 and I-295 also make car travel straightforward, while bus routes keep public transit riders covered.
North Side
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Jacksonville: $1,296/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in North Side: $1,285/month
- Median home value in North Side: $375,000
North Side stands out as a budget-friendly neighborhood that offers a mix of rural charm and growing urban development. This area in Jacksonville’s northern region is perfect for residents seeking spacious properties, historic elements, and scenic natural surroundings—all while staying connected to the rest of the city. Families and professionals alike appreciate the North Side for its peaceful atmosphere and budding opportunities.
Things to do in North Side
Residents of North Side enjoy a variety of recreational options, including Big Talbot Island and Little Talbot Island State Parks, both renowned for hiking trails, fishing spots, and sandy beaches. For a more urban experience, the River City Marketplace provides convenient shopping, dining, and entertainment under one roof. The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens and the Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary give residents and visitors the opportunity to see exotic animals up close.
Transportation
The North Side is well-connected by several major highways, providing smooth commutes to Downtown Jacksonville and other parts of the city. Public transit is available through JTA bus routes, offering residents multiple travel options. For frequent flyers, the proximity of Jacksonville International Airport is an added perk.
Make the Most of Your Move with Apartments.com
Whether you’re dropping in for a short-term lease or hoping to set down roots, Apartments.com has the tools to help you find an affordable apartment easily. Navigate housing across neighborhoods with our customized search engine. Once you find the perfect location, narrow the search within a price range that works for you.
No matter the budget, the options are endless with Apartments.com. Ready to get started? Pay less, live more, and rent on.
Apartment rent data provided by CoStar Group’s November 2024 reports.
