While Florida was once thought of as the hot spot for retirees, many more families and young professionals are relocating to the Sunshine State for new opportunities. There are many incredible spots in Florida to settle, but one of the most popular in recent years is Jacksonville, and it’s no wonder why — from affordable housing to ample job opportunities, this area has so much to offer. Before you decide to take the plunge and start searching for Jacksonville apartments for rent, here are a few things you need to know about what life here will be like.

Easy on The Wallet

One of the best things about living in Jacksonville is the cost of living. While Florida is an incredibly affordable state as it is — which is why many are flocking there—Jacksonville is one of its most affordable major cities. In fact, homes here are decently cheaper than other popular spots, like Miami or Orlando. This is great news for those with big dreams and a limited budget—you can move to Jacksonville and make it work without breaking the bank!

Jobs Abound

For those looking to find a job in Florida, Jacksonville is the place to look. The city boasts one of the most competitive job markets in the state. From blue-collar jobs to tech professionals and entrepreneurs, there is something for everyone in any industry—and at any skill level. With the city’s economy being one of the top in the state, the job opportunities are plentiful and pay extremely well compared to elsewhere in Florida.

Easy to Navigate

One of the hardest things about moving to a new area is adjusting to travel. Driving through an unfamiliar city can be anxiety inducing, and even more so, the public transportation system may be difficult to navigate. Luckily, Jacksonville is not only an easy city for drivers, but it also has one of the best public transit systems in Florida. When living in Jacksonville, you can rest easy knowing you’ll always make it to your destination on time.

Beaches, Parks, and Outdoor Recreation

Whether you’re into swimming, surfing, fishing, biking, or just taking a leisurely stroll, Jacksonville has it all. With miles of pristine beaches, parks, and outdoor activities, the city has something for everyone. From sandy Atlantic Coast beaches to the banks of St. Johns River, Jacksonville is the perfect outdoor escape for anyone looking to get in touch with nature.

A Diverse Cultural Scene

Jacksonville also offers a vibrant cultural scene, with plenty of music and nightlife to explore. Whether you’re into jazz, rock, hip-hop, soul, folk, or anything in between, this city has a distinct sound of its own. Plus, there’s no shortage of restaurants and bars to explore, giving you the chance to try something new each time you go out, whether it’s a hot date night or a day out with the kids.

Family-Friendly Fun

Speaking of kids, Jacksonville is an incredibly family-friendly city. From theme parks to museums, there is so much to do here regardless of age. For a special day out with the family, check out attractions such as Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary or take in a show at the Florida Theater. The city also plays host to lots of annual events—parades, festivals, competitions—that can help make life in Jacksonville a little more fun.