Jacksonville Beach is a coastal city located in Duval County, Florida, and is part of the Jacksonville Beaches communities. Known for its beautiful shoreline, vibrant nightlife, and laid-back atmosphere, Jacksonville Beach is a popular destination for both tourists and residents in the Jacksonville metropolitan area. Here’s an overview of Jacksonville Beach:

1. Geography and Location

• Location: Jacksonville Beach is situated on a barrier island along the northeast coast of Florida, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Intracoastal Waterway to the west. It is approximately 18 miles east of downtown Jacksonville, making it easily accessible from the city.
• Environment: The city features miles of sandy beaches, dunes, and coastal wetlands. The beachfront is a central attraction, offering a mix of recreational activities and scenic beauty.

2. History

• Early Settlement: The area now known as Jacksonville Beach was originally inhabited by the Timucua people. European settlers arrived in the 16th century, and the area was later developed as a resort community.
• Development: The city was originally called Pablo Beach when it was incorporated in 1907. It was renamed Jacksonville Beach in 1925 to reflect its connection to the larger city of Jacksonville.
• Growth: Over the decades, Jacksonville Beach has grown from a small seaside resort into a thriving community with a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational areas.

3. Population

• Size: As of the 2020 Census, Jacksonville Beach has a population of approximately 23,000 residents. The population swells during peak tourist seasons, particularly in the summer months.
• Demographics: The city is home to a diverse mix of families, young professionals, and retirees. The beach lifestyle attracts people who enjoy outdoor activities and a relaxed atmosphere.

4. Economy

• Tourism: Tourism is a significant part of the local economy, with visitors drawn to the city’s beaches, festivals, and outdoor activities. The city’s many hotels, restaurants, and shops cater to tourists and locals alike.
• Healthcare and Services: Jacksonville Beach also benefits from its proximity to Jacksonville, with a strong presence of healthcare, retail, and professional services.
• Real Estate: The real estate market in Jacksonville Beach is robust, with a mix of oceanfront properties, single-family homes, and condominiums.

5. Recreation and Attractions

• Beaches: The city’s main attraction is its wide, sandy beach, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and beachcombing. The beach is also a popular spot for events, including festivals, concerts, and fireworks displays.
• Jacksonville Beach Pier: The Jacksonville Beach Pier is a favorite spot for fishing, strolling, and taking in ocean views. It extends over 1,300 feet into the Atlantic Ocean and is a landmark of the city.
• Outdoor Activities: In addition to beach activities, Jacksonville Beach offers a range of outdoor recreation, including biking, kayaking, and fishing. The nearby Intracoastal Waterway is ideal for boating and water sports.
• Parks and Trails: The city has several parks and green spaces, including South Beach Park and Sunshine Playground, which are popular with families. The Jacksonville Beach Golf Club is another notable recreational facility.
• Nightlife and Dining: Jacksonville Beach has a lively nightlife scene, with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants along the beach and in the downtown area. The Seawalk Pavilion hosts concerts, festivals, and other events throughout the year.
• Cultural Attractions: While Jacksonville Beach is primarily known for its outdoor attractions, it also has cultural sites, including local art galleries and the Beaches Museum & History Park, which offers exhibits on the area’s history and culture.

6. Education

• Schools: Jacksonville Beach is part of the Duval County Public Schools system, with several elementary, middle, and high schools serving the area. The city also has access to private schools and early childhood education centers.
• Higher Education: While there are no universities directly in Jacksonville Beach, the nearby city of Jacksonville is home to several higher education institutions, including the University of North Florida and Jacksonville University.

7. Living in Jacksonville Beach

• Quality of Life: Jacksonville Beach offers a high quality of life, with a mix of urban amenities and a relaxed beach town atmosphere. The cost of living is relatively high, especially for oceanfront properties, but many find the beach lifestyle worth the investment.
• Community: The city has a strong sense of community, with various local events, farmers’ markets, and festivals that bring residents together. It’s a popular place for both young families and retirees who want to enjoy the coastal lifestyle.

8. Transportation

• Road Access: Jacksonville Beach is accessible via State Road A1A, which runs along the coast, and Butler Boulevard (State Road 202), which connects the beach to Interstate 95 and downtown Jacksonville.
• Public Transportation: The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) provides bus services in the area, although most residents rely on cars for commuting. The city is also a short drive from Jacksonville International Airport, making it convenient for travel.

Population:

• Population (2023): 23,477
• Population Change (2010 – 2020): Approximately +10%
• Married Population (2023): 50%
• Median Age (2023): 42.7
• Homeowners Compared to Renters (2022):
  • Homeowners: 67%
  • Renters: 33%
• Poverty Rate (2022): 5.6% (compared to the US national average of 11.5%)

Demographics (2022):

• White Non-Hispanic: 87.6%
• White Hispanic: 3.3%
• Multiracial Non-Hispanic: 3.25%

(Median prices shown are only for dates specified)

Tax

• Property Tax Rate (2023): 0.85% of a property’s fair assessed market value
• Combined County and State Sales Tax Rate (2023): 7.5%

Cost of Living

• Compared to US National Average (2023): Higher
• Cost of Housing Compared to Florida Average (2023): Higher
• Cost of Healthcare Compared to US National Average (2023): 14% Lower
• Cost of Food Compared to US National Average (2023): Approximately the Same
• Cost of Transportation Compared to US National Average (2023): 13% Lower
• Cost of Utilities Compared to US National Average (2023): Approximately the Same

Political Affiliation Based on 2024 Election Results ( Duval County ): 

• Republican: 50.1%
• Democratic: 48.7%

Largest Industry

• Health Care and Social assistance / Finance and Insurance

Temperature

• Avg. High: 78°F
• Avg. Low: 64.8°F

Fun Facts:

In the late 19th century, developers saw the potential of Jacksonville Beach (then called Pablo Beach) as a resort town.
One of the main attractions in 1905 was an amusement park called “Little Coney Island.” However, the park closed due to
weather conditions that damaged its wooden structures.

Location and Amenities:

• Commute time to work: Average time – 23.5 minutes vs US national average – 26.9 minutes
• Jacksonville Beach to Downtown Jacksonville – 15 miles
• Jacksonville International Airport – 24.4 miles
• Mayo Clinic Hospital (Jacksonville) – 4.8 miles
• University of North Florida – 8.9 miles
• Jacksonville University – 13.2 miles
• Hwy 1 – 295 – 23 minutes
• Baptist Medical Center (Jacksonville Beach)
• The Jacksonville Beach Pier
• Players by the Sea (Providing innovative and live theatre to residents and tourists for over 50 years)

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).

 

Restrictions:

• Short term rentals are permitted in all zoning districts where a residential use is permitted.
• Maximum occupancy not to exceed 16 occupants per unit and limited to (2) persons per bedroom, plus (2).
• Off-street parking limited to one (1) parking space per four (4) transient occupants.
• For more info see: jacksonvillebeach.org