Jacksonville is one of Florida’s most expansive cities, both in size and opportunity. With riverfront views, ocean access, and a growing job market, Jacksonville draws in renters looking for space, lifestyle, and affordability. Whether you’re after a walkable neighborhood near downtown or a suburban pocket with easy highway access, Jacksonville has something to fit your needs.
We’ve compiled a list of the best places to live in Jacksonville based on neighborhood atmosphere, nearby amenities, rental availability, and affordability relative to other neighborhoods in the area.
The five best neighborhoods in Jacksonville for renters are:
Riverside
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Jacksonville: $1,300/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Riverside: $1,456/month
- Average 1-bedroom size in Riverside: 713 square feet
Why Riverside is good for renters
Riverside is one of Jacksonville’s most walkable neighborhoods, filled with historic architecture, quirky boutiques, and an artsy local vibe. It’s located just outside of downtown, giving renters quick access to the city without the higher prices of core urban neighborhoods. The Five Points district adds an eclectic charm with coffee shops, bars, and a weekend farmers market.
|
Moderately Walkable |
Limited Public Transit |
Very Drivable |
Fairly Bikeable |
70Riverside has a walkability score of 70 out of 100 |
30Riverside has a transit score of 30 out of 100 |
80Riverside has a drivability score of 80 out of 100 |
50Riverside has a bikeability score of 50 out of 100 |
Keep in mind
You may pay a premium for location, and street parking can be limited in the most walkable zones.
San Marco
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Jacksonville: $1,300/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in San Marco: $1,491/month
- Average 1-bedroom size in San Marco: 758 square feet
Why San Marco is good for renters
San Marco combines charm and convenience. Its riverfront location, Mediterranean-style architecture, and artsy business district make it a standout. Renters enjoy quick access to downtown, a cluster of fine dining and local theaters, and beautiful green spaces along the river.
|
Fairly Walkable |
Limited Public Transit |
Exceptionally Drivable |
Fairly Bikeable |
50San Marco has a walkability score of 50 out of 100 |
30San Marco has a transit score of 30 out of 100 |
90San Marco has a drivability score of 90 out of 100 |
40San Marco has a bikeability score of 40 out of 100 |
Keep in mind
Rents here trend above average, and some older buildings may not have modern amenities.
Deerwood
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Jacksonville: $1,300/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Deerwood: $1,480/month
- Average 1-bedroom size in Deerwood: 812 square feet
Why Deerwood is good for renters
Deerwood is one of the most convenient neighborhoods for renters looking for newer apartment communities. It’s home to major shopping centers like St. Johns Town Center and offers easy access to both downtown and the beaches. Renters here enjoy modern amenities, fitness centers, pools, and pet-friendly options in many communities.
|
Fairly Walkable |
Minimal Public Transit |
Exceptionally Drivable |
Fairly Bikeable |
40Deerwood has a walkability score of 40 out of 100 |
10Deerwood has a transit score of 10 out of 100 |
100Deerwood has a drivability score of 100 out of 100 |
40Deerwood has a bikeability score of 40 out of 100 |
Keep in mind
While amenities are plentiful, the area is more car-dependent and lacks walkability compared to central neighborhoods.
Mandarin
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Jacksonville: $1,300/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Mandarin: $1,306/month
- Average 1-bedroom size in Mandarin: 751 square feet
Why Mandarin is good for renters
Mandarin brings a calm, suburban feel with tree-lined roads, river views, and proximity to outdoor spaces. It’s ideal for renters who want a quiet home base with convenient access to I-295 and shopping centers. The area’s layout and older charm appeal to those looking for a more laid-back pace.
|
Somewhat Walkable |
Exceptionally Drivable |
Fairly Bikeable |
20Mandarin has a walkability score of 20 out of 100 |
100Mandarin has a drivability score of 100 out of 100 |
40Mandarin has a bikeability score of 40 out of 100 |
Keep in mind
Public transit is limited, and most errands will require a car.
Arlington
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Jacksonville: $1,300/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Arlington: $1,195/month
- Average 1-bedroom size in Arlington: 729 square feet
Why Arlington is good for renters
Arlington offers more value-focused housing in a residential area close to downtown and the University of North Florida. Renters here enjoy access to parks, the river, and a good mix of older and updated apartment options. It’s a great spot for those looking for space and savings.
|
Fairly Walkable |
Exceptionally Drivable |
Fairly Bikeable |
40Arlington has a walkability score of 40 out of 100 |
100Arlington has a drivability score of 100 out of 100 |
50Arlington has a bikeability score of 50 out of 100 |
Keep in mind
Some properties in Arlington may be dated, and commute times vary depending on where you’re heading.
Ready to Make the Move?
If Jacksonville has caught your eye, take the next step 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 the perfect place.
Navigate housing across Jacksonville with our customized search engine and use our customizable filters to narrow your search by price, amenities, and floor plan. Wherever you are and wherever you’re going, the options are endless with Apartments.com.
Methodology
Rent and cost of living data are sourced from the Apartments.com Rent Trends pages and Cost of Living Calculator. Walkability, transit, drivability, and bikeability ratings are sourced from the Apartments.com Area Guides, courtesy of Local Logic.
This article was originally published on November 21, 2025, and has been updated to reflect April 2026 data.
FAQs
Is Jacksonville a good place to live?
Yes, Jacksonville is a great option for renters who want coastal living, outdoor recreation, and a lower cost of living than many major Florida cities. With beaches, parks, and cultural districts, it offers plenty to explore.
Is Jacksonville an expensive place to live?
Jacksonville is more affordable than many U.S. cities. Rent prices and the overall cost of living are below the national average, especially compared to cities like Miami or Tampa.
What’s the average rent in Jacksonville?
The average rent in Jacksonville is $1,300/month, as of April 2026. This is 21% below the national average rent of $1,639/month.
What salary do you need to live in Jacksonville?
According to our cost of living data, a comfortable salary for a single adult with no dependents to cover housing, utilities, groceries, and goods and services in Jacksonville would be around $75,000 before taxes.
