Located over 100 miles from the closest metropolitan area, Jacksonville has been a small agricultural community since its founding. For almost 40 years, it was the state’s largest producer of tomatoes, earning the title "tomato capital of the world.” Agriculture and livestock continued to be significant industries through the 20th century, and manufacturing and healthcare now also support the city. A steady stream of jobs and the promise of days spent boating on Lake Jacksonville have drawn in new people from as far as the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, bringing the population to just over 14,000 people. “Many people work at the area hospitals or schools. Others work in the oil field and travel to support their families,” says Julie Robinson, a Realtor with Century 21 Action Team and a local Chamber of Commerce board member. “We are seeing more and more remote workers move into our rural community as well to search for a more laid-back way of life.”
Jacksonville, TX has a lively and charming downtown.
Jacksonville, Texas is a Historic town located in East Texas and is know for its tomatos.
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Lakefront homes half the price of Dallas properties
The median home price in Jacksonville is $209,500, less than half the Dallas median. Ranch-style homes, custom builds and open tracts of land are all available. Properties along Lake Jacksonville are some of the most in-demand offerings. On average, homes in Jacksonville sell after 76 days compared to the national average of 45 days.
Find Ranch homes throughout Jacksonville neighborhoods.
Find Contemporary home builds along Lake Jacksonville in Jacksonville, Texas.
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Days on the water at Lake Jacksonville
As more people have come to Jacksonville, the city has focused on updating its recreation offerings. “The parks, nature trails and Lake Jacksonville have all gotten improvements to appeal to people looking for a rural life with access to nature,” Robinson says. Lake Jacksonville shapes the city's west side, and the 1,000-acre reservoir is open for camping, boating and swimming. Less than 5 miles from the lake, Nichols’ Green Park has enough space for a disc golf course, and tennis and basketball courts. Across town, Cherokee Ranch Golf Club has offered public tee time since 1936. River Run Park has off-roading ATV courses along the Neches River just outside city limits.
Jacksonville locals love spending the weekend at Lake Jacksonville.
Spend time playing with the family at Nichol's Green Park in Jacksonville.
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Jacksonville ISD athletes play at the Tomato Bowl
Jacksonville Independent School District receives a B rating on Niche. Jacksonville ISD’s football and soccer teams play in the historic, rock-lined Tomato Bowl, which has been here since the 1930s. The city has its own college — Jacksonville College, a two-year private school. The college is operated by the Baptist Missionary Association of America, which also runs a seminary school and over 20 local churches.
Jacksonville College in Jacksonville is the provides its students a faith-based education.
Jacksonville High School now utilizes the historic Tomato Bowl Stadium Downtown.
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East Rusk Street shapes downtown Jacksonville
Jackson Street has grocery stores and chain restaurants, while Jacksonville’s downtown district is concentrated on East Rusk Street. Downtown has museums, boutique shopping and standout restaurants. Ritual Laboratorium was featured in East Texas Weekend magazine for its unique concept, which combines a 1920s soda fountain with a yoga studio and med spa. A block away, Sadler’s Kitchen has been in Jacksonville for 30 years and is known for made-from-scratch pies. Vanishing Texana Museum displays curiosities and artifacts worldwide, from a Mastodon tooth to Roman coins.
The historic buildings of Jacksonville have undergone renovations, revitalizing the area.
Get your hair done at any one of Jacksonvilles many friendly hair salons.
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Tomato Fest in the Tomato Capital
Jacksonville’s legacy as the “tomato capital of the world” is celebrated every year at the summertime Tomato Fest. The event features tomato eating contests, classic car shows, live music and an open-air market with food and art vendors. Some smaller events also nod to the city’s agricultural history, including the charity Tomato Run 5K events.
National highways and the Texas State Railroad
U.S. Highways 69, 79 and 175 and State Highway 135 bisect the city and connect to the rest of the region. The primary public transit option is the GoBus, an on-demand bus service. A still-active section of the Texas State Railroad runs through Jacksonville and is used for scenic tours throughout East Texas. The closest full-service commercial airport is Dallas Love Field, 120 miles away.
Seasonal flooding on Gum Creek
Jacksonville has hot summers and mild winters that rarely dip below-freezing temperatures. The community has some chances of flooding, and the flood risk is higher around Gum and Ragsdale creeks than Lake Jacksonville. According to the Jacksonville Police Department, crime decreased 16% between January 2023 and January 2024. This included a decrease in violent crime but an increase in property crimes like burglary and car theft.
Written By
Delaney Murray
Photography Contributed By
Clayton Hurst
Video By
Alex Finneran
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Jacksonville, TX sell after 77 days on the market compared to the national average of 51 days. The median sale price for homes in Jacksonville, TX over the last 12 months is $200,000, down 11% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to own a home built directly over the water on beautiful Lake Jacksonville. This two-story lakefront property, built in 2004, offers 2,844 square feet of comfortable living space and is priced $80,000 below the county’s appraised value. Inside, the home features two spacious living areas, four bedrooms upstairs, and a versatile flex room downstairs that can
Discover the charm of this delightful farmhouse style home at 549 Brookside Dr. in Jacksonville, TX! This enchanting property features 3 cozy bedrooms and 2 beautifully appointed bathrooms, perfect for creating lasting memories with your loved ones. You'll fall in love with the stunning hardwood floors that flow throughout the home, adding warmth and character to every corner. The expansive
Welcome home to 721 El Paso St. Step into this charming 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom cottage style home nestled in the heart of Jacksonville, TX. Boasting 2266 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space, this cozy yet spacious residence offers the perfect blend of comfort and character. The inviting interior features hardwood floors, and an open concept layout that seamlessly connects the living,
Owner's have restored all the charm back to this adorable cottage! Home offers 3 bedrooms 2 bath and over 1600 square feet with 2 living areas and separate dining! Beautiful hardwood floors in all bedrooms and living areas with charming black and white ceramic tile in baths, kitchen and dining for easy maintenance. Both baths have new tile surrounds in tub/shower and newer fixtures. Wonderful
Charming 1940's home offering 3 BR and 2 Baths with charming character. Beautiful, refinished hardwood floors in the living room, dining room and bedrooms and all freshly painted and updated. All windows have new blinds and owners have updated all fixtures. Wonderful fenced in back yard for the children to play. In addition to the garage and storage building, the interior of the home offers a
Property Id: 1014660Welcome to your new home at 1513 Matthew St in Jacksonville! This cozy 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom unit is perfect for you and your furry friends. Enjoy amenities like on-site laundry, fitness center, and off-street parking. Don't miss out on this charming property for only $750/month!
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Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
