Why Live in Jacksonville Beach
Jacksonville Beach, known as Jax Beach, is a vibrant community on San Pablo Island, Florida, with a population of around 23,500 that swells in the summer due to tourism. The city features four miles of public shoreline, attracting sunbathers and surfers to its consistent waves. The Jax Beach Pier and South Beach Park are popular spots, with the latter boasting the Sunshine Playground. Residents enjoy proximity to nine parks, with over half living within a 10-minute walk of one. The local economy thrives on tourism and industries like healthcare and aerospace technology, with many commuting 17 miles to downtown Jacksonville. Housing options range from high-rise condos and luxury homes along the oceanfront to midcentury homes and townhouses near the Intracoastal Waterway. However, homes between Seventh Street and the oceanfront are in a high-risk flood zone, requiring flood insurance. Jacksonville Beach Elementary School is highly rated, and students can attend themed magnet schools in Duval County. The boardwalk is the hub for local boutiques, surf shops, and dining, with a lively bar scene north of Beach Boulevard. The Seawalk Pavilion hosts cultural events like the Jax Beach Arts Market and Florida Fin Fest. Commuting is facilitated by Beach Boulevard and Third Street, with bus services and bike lanes available. The Jacksonville International Airport is 32 miles away, and Baptist Medical Center Beaches is the nearest hospital. The climate is warm year-round, with a low risk of direct hurricane hits. Crime rates are comparable to the national average, though summer sees an increase in property crime in tourist areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to rent a home in Jacksonville Beach, FL?
The median rent for a home in Jacksonville Beach, FL is $4,295 per month, though prices vary by neighborhood, size, and property type. As of July 2026, condos tend to be the most affordable option while single-family homes and townhouses are currently more expensive.
How much do you need to make to afford rent in Jacksonville Beach, FL?
To comfortably afford the median rent in Jacksonville Beach, FL, a household needs to earn roughly $171,800 per year. This is based on the common guideline that households should spend no more than 30% of gross income on housing. Most landlords require monthly household income of at least 3x the monthly rent, and with a median rent of $4,295 per month in Jacksonville Beach, FL, renters typically need to show $12,885 per month in gross income to qualify. Actual affordability will vary depending on household debts, other living expenses, and overall budget.
Is it more affordable to rent or buy in Jacksonville Beach, FL?
In Jacksonville Beach, FL, the price-to-rent ratio is 13.0, which generally favors renting. This ratio divides the median home price by the annual median rent: below 15 typically favors buying, 15 to 20 is balanced, and above 20 typically favors renting. Your finances, how long you plan to stay, and costs like mortgage rates, taxes, and maintenance all factor into the decision.
There are currently 1 homes available for rent in Jacksonville Beach, FL. The median rent is $4,295 per month, with single-family homes renting at $3,000, townhouses at $3,000 and condos at $2,675.
Number of Homes for Rent
1
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Median Single Family Home Rent
$3,000
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Median Townhouse Rent
$3,000
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