Fernandina Beach is a picturesque coastal city located on Amelia Island in northeast Florida. It’s part of Nassau County and is known for its charming historic district, beautiful beaches, and maritime heritage. 

1. 1. Historic District: Fernandina Beach has a well-preserved historic downtown area with Victorian-style architecture, quaint shops, and restaurants. The area features a variety of historic buildings, including the 19th-century courthouse and the Amelia Island Museum of History. Walking through the downtown district provides a glimpse into the city’s past.

 

1. 1. Beaches: The city is renowned for its beautiful beaches, such as Main Beach and Fort Clinch State Park Beach. These beaches offer wide expanses of sand, clear waters, and opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. Fort Clinch State Park, located at the northern tip of the island, is also known for its natural beauty and historic fort.

 

1. 1. Fort Clinch State Park: This state park is a major attraction, featuring a well-preserved 19th-century fort that offers guided tours and reenactments. The park also has miles of hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, and fishing opportunities, making it a great spot for outdoor activities.

 

1. 1. Maritime Heritage: Fernandina Beach has a rich maritime history, which is reflected in its historic waterfront and the Amelia Island Lighthouse. The city’s location on the Atlantic Ocean has made it an important port and fishing center over the years.

 

1. 1. Culture and Events: The city hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including the Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival, which celebrates the local shrimping industry with parades, music, and food. The Fernandina Beach Main Street program also organizes regular community events and activities.

 

1. 1. Dining and Shopping: Fernandina Beach offers a range of dining options, from casual seafood spots to more upscale restaurants. The downtown area has several boutiques, art galleries, and specialty shops, making it a pleasant place for shopping and exploring.

 

1. 1. Climate: The city enjoys a mild, subtropical climate with warm summers and mild winters. This pleasant weather makes it a popular destination for visitors year-round.

 

1. Recreation: In addition to its beaches and parks, Fernandina Beach offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and kayaking. The city’s location on Amelia Island provides easy access to both saltwater and freshwater activities.

Location and Amenities:

• Commute to work: 23.3 minutes compared to US national average of 26.9 minutes
• Hwy I-95: 20.9 miles (31 min.)
• Jacksonville International Airport (JAX): 26.5 miles (38 min.)
• University of North Florida: 43.5 miles (56 min.)
• Jacksonville University: 39.3 miles (55 min.)
• Downtown Jacksonville: 36.2 miles (50 min.)
• Baptist Medical Center Hospital: 1250 S 18th St, Fernandina Beach, FL
• Egans Creek Greenway: Over 300 acres of nature trails, vegetation, and wildlife. Walking and biking are popular activities.
• Isle of 8 Flags Shrimp Festival: Annual festival referred to as the Shrimp Boat Festival held since 1964.

(Prices reflect dates specified only)

 

 Tax:

• • Property Tax Rate (2023): 0.74% of a property’s assessed fair market value

• • Poverty Rate (2022): 11.4% vs US national average of 11.5%

Cost of Living

• • Cost of Living vs the US National Avg. (2021): 11% Higher than the US national average

• • Cost of Living compared to the US national average (2023): Higher

• • Cost of food compared to the US national average (2023): Approximately the same

• • Cost of housing compared to the Florida average (2023): Higher

• • Cost of healthcare compared to the US national average (2023): 4% Lower

• • Cost of transportation compared to the US national average (2023): 13% Lower

• • Cost of utilities compared to the US national average (2023): Approximately the same

Fun Facts:

Fernandina Beach is located on Amelia Island. Amelia Island is known as “The Isles of 8 Flags” as it is the only municipality in the United States to have flown 8 different flags since 1562: France, Great Britain, Spain, the Patriots of Amelia Island, the Green Cross of Florida, Mexico, the Confederate States of America, and the United States.

Short Term Rental Regulations:

**All short-term rental operations in Florida must obtain a business license from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).