JACKSONVILLE-DUVAL COUNTY
City/County Offices
117 West Duval Street
Jacksonville 904-630-CITY
www.coj.net
Chamber of Commerce
3 Independent Drive
Jacksonville 904-366-6600
www.myjaxchamber.com
Services
Well-managed by an integrated city and county government, the sweeping expanse of Jacksonville and Duval County has emerged as one of the nation’s “hottest” locations for residential and business development. Efficient transportation facilities are enhanced by the sheer size of the metropolitan area in comparison to the population. As the hub of the area known as Florida’s “First Coast,” Jacksonville serves as a center for culture, education, entertainment, and employment. Florida Community College at Jacksonville is one of the largest two-year colleges in the nation, homed to the Donald Zell Urban Resource Center that provides customized work force training in all facets of business. The vast resources of the University of North Florida are complemented by a number of private institutions including St. Leo University, Edward Waters College, Jones College, the University of Phoenix, the Florida Coastal School of Law, Florida Technical College of Jacksonville, Florida Metropolitan University at Jacksonville, ITT Technical Institute, and Trinity Baptist College.
State-of-the-art healthcare services are organized and managed by highly respected health systems. Among the world-class network of hospitals and medical centers are Baptist Medical Center, Brooks Rehabilitation Hospital, the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Memorial Hospital-Jacksonville, Shands Jacksonville, Specialty Hospital Jacksonville, the Mayo Clinic’s St. Lukes Hospital, St. Vincent’s Medical Center, Wolfson Children’s Hospital, and the University of Florida Health Science Center Jacksonville. Supporting these exceptional institutions are emergency care centers, home health, skilled nursing, hospice, rehabilitation, long-term care, and nursing homes.
Lifestyle
The exciting and rapidly growing metropolis of Jacksonville and Duval County harmonize a robust economy with historical landmarks, renovated older neighborhoods, towering skyscrapers, handsome new construction, and the gracious beauty of the Old South. One of the oldest and largest of the nation’s cities, Jacksonville has managed to preserve its charm and heritage while welcoming phenomenal growth and expansion. The majestic St. Johns River meanders through the heart of Jacksonville, creating postcard images at every turn. In fact, the downtown waterfront area provides a focal point for the city, featuring The Riverwalk boardwalk with its vistas of riverboats and waterfowl. Grand memorials, fine museums, performing arts centers, professional sports, first-rate attractions, dazzling celebrations, and recreational opportunities make this area ideal for a wide cross-section of lifestyles and interests.
With more than 57,300 acres of parkland including state and federal preserves, Jacksonville enjoys the number one ranking among U.S. cities for gross acreage of parks. From small neighborhood playgrounds for toddlers to multipurpose trails for biking, hiking, and horseback riding, the area excels in natural beauty and unspoiled wilderness. The dignity of oak forests, the vastness of salt marshes, and the abundant wildlife in nature parks create an enchanting environment where natural and manmade beauty merge. The beach communities that dot Duval County — Atlantic Beach, Jacksonville Beach and Neptune Beach — offer some of the finest sport fishing, boating, and water sport opportunities in the nation. For unrivaled quality of life, few areas in the nation can rival Jacksonville and Duval County.
JACKSONVILLE NEIGHBORHOODS
Arlington, East Arlington
The adjacent neighborhoods of Arlington and East Arlington boast an abundance of waterfront property. The scenic St. Johns River surrounds Arlington on the west and the Intracoastal Waterway on the east. Jacksonville University, Jones College, and a small airfield are located in Arlington; and Fort Caroline National Park overlooks the site of a former colony of French Huguenots. The housing selection varies widely, mixing styles and prices ranges to appeal to every taste and budget. New subdivisions and homes have sprung up rapidly in recent decades, creating a decidedly suburban atmosphere. Local amenities now include shopping plazas, a kaleidoscope of restaurants and entertainment spots, and easy access to recreational waterways. East Arlington is becoming popularly known as the “West Beaches,” leading the region in new-home construction. Suitable land for development is attracting exclusive planned communities like Queens Harbour Yacht and Country Club and beautiful active-adult enclaves as well as modern offices.
Avondale
Bordered by Highway 17 on the west and the St. Johns River to the east, Avondale boundaries also include Interstate 10 to the north and the Ortega River to the south. Historic neighborhoods of stately mansions and beautiful older homes line the west bank of the St. Johns River. Mediterranean Revival and other European architectural styles complement the local boutiques, quaint streets, and quiet charm in this area where a dozen parks offer a wealth of recreational facilities and amenities. Sport fields, tennis courts, and multi-purpose paths bring residents together for relaxation and recreation. Public schools are available within walking distance of most neighborhoods, and close proximity to downtown Jacksonville adds to the quality of life in this small-town atmosphere. Throughout the decades, Avondale has managed to preserve a unique village atmosphere and family-oriented setting.
Beauclerc, Baymeadows
A large selection of homes nestled in attraction subdivisions can be found in Beauclerc, which divides Mandarin from the rest of Southside and San Jose neighborhoods. A number of professional offices and small businesses also flourish in this area. Beauclerc begins along the eastern bank of the St. Johns River at Goodby’s Creek and follows Baymeadows Road. South of Southside Boulevard to Phillips Highway is the area known as Baymeadows, surrounded by Interstate 95 to offer a convenient address within the city. Exclusive residential communities such as Deerwood and Deercreek Country Clubs join a cluster of apartments and condominium communities as well as attractive office parks. Aficionados of shopping will enjoy The Avenues regional shopping mall, a variety of retail centers, and upscale boutiques, while entertainment spots and popular restaurants line Baymeadows Road. A number of major employers make it possible for many residents to enjoy living close to their place of employment.
Mandarin
Continuing north from Switzerland and Fruit Cove on Highway 13, just across the Julington Creek area that separates St. Johns and Duval counties, lies the rapidly growing area known as Mandarin. Boasting remarkable expansion over the past decade, Mandarin features the scenic St. Johns River as its northern boundary. Steeped in history, this formerly rural area now features a medley of services and businesses, a wide variety of residential neighborhoods, exclusive enclaves, small country homes with stables, and sweeping estates shaded by ancient oaks. Highway 13 winds through the heart of Mandarin, intersecting Interstate 295 to offer quick and easy access to other sections of Jacksonville. The Mandarin Community Club works diligently to maintain the integrity and value of this charming and affluent community that excels in harmonizing the old with the new.
North Jacksonville
Roughly defined as extending from 20th Street north to the Duval County border and from Interstate 295 on the west toward the Atlantic Ocean, the area known as North Jacksonville offers waterways, new homes, and major attractions. The Anheuser Busch Brewery, the expanding Jacksonville Zoological Gardens, Huguenot Memorial Park, and Little Talbot Island Park are some of the highlights in North Jacksonville. Convenient shopping, medical facilities, good schools, and close proximity to downtown combine with attractive residential neighborhoods in this area. Factors that have driven growth include the opening of the Dames Point Bridge, airport expansion, and thriving companies activity in Imeson Industrial Park and the International Tradeport. This land-rich section of Jacksonville will undoubtedly continue to grow, fueled by excellent transportation facilities and wooded country settings.
Ortega
Bordered on the east by the St. Johns River, to the north/west by the Ortega River, and Riverside to the south, the community of Ortega is actually a riverfront peninsula. Private and public schools and small parks add to the neighborhood’s charm, attracting families to homes in a medley of architectural styles and sizes. Cozy bungalows contrast with stately estates in Ortega, home to upscale amenities like the Florida Yacht Club and Timuquana Country Club. Ranked by Worth Magazine among the nation’s 50 most wealthy cities, Ortega has long been considered home to “Old Jacksonville.” Outstanding boating and golfing combines with a convenient commute to downtown business centers to attract many executives and professionals. Stately oaks create a lush canopy over the meandering main thoroughfare, which boasts breathtaking vistas of the Jacksonville skyline.
Riverside
Those who prefer an easy commute will want to consider the Riverside area, where the home selection includes everything from modest duplexes to elegantly restored historic estates and waterfront manors. Riverside is home to a cluster of leading medical facilities including the St. Vincent’s medical complex and a number of private professional offices. In close proximity to downtown, the western section was part of the original city of Jacksonville and offers a picturesque setting of stately oaks and river views. Situated between the St. Johns River and Roosevelt Boulevard, the area is known for its cultural diversity and historical architecture including of Prairie, Mediterranean Revival, and Colonial. Attractions include the Cummerland Museum and lush parks that provide a relaxing setting for art festivals and symphony concerts. Five Points offers an eclectic shopping area that is popular with young adults.
San Jose, San Marco
One of Jacksonville’s prime residential choices, the San Jose and San Marco area features such landmarks such as Epping Forest, San Jose Country Club, Theater Jacksonville, and beautiful parks. Minutes south of downtown along the east banks of the St. Johns River, the neighborhood showcases the Spanish architectural influence popular in the 1920s. The majority of homes were constructed in the mid 20th century, although Epping Forest Yacht Club and the Villages of San Jose were constructed more recently and offer opportunities for upscale properties as well as patio homes and condominiums. The neighborhood offers boutiques shopping and entertainment in San Marco Square, several private clubs, and outstanding private schools. Most students are able to walk to the public schools through tranquil residential neighborhoods.
Southside
Close to downtown with Interstate 95 as its western boundary, Southside extends to the east as far as St. Johns Bluff Road. This area stretches from Atlantic Boulevard in the north and to the St. Johns County line in the south. Such a sweeping region offers a wide selection of neighborhoods and architectural styles as well as apartment buildings, office parks, services, and retail shops. Well known commercial developments include Southpoint Office Park and Deerwood Park are home to leading companies. Important healthcare and educational institutions like St. Luke’s and Memorial Hospitals as well as the University of North Florida and the south campus of Florida Community College are located in Southside. Golf courses, fine and casual restaurants, entertainment spots, and easy access to beach areas add to the area’s popularity.
Springfield, Downtown
Offering a myriad of options for entertainment and close proximity to the business district, historic Springfield and the downtown district are defined by Interstate 295 to the west, the Trout River to the north, and the St. Johns River to the south and east. Newcomers will discover sweeping revitalization driven by a dedicated to preservation in Springfield, where blocks of architecturally distinguished homes are showcased in Florida’s largest residential historic district. This section of the city existed long before the 1901 fire, boasting examples of magnificent late-Victorian period homes that fell into disrepair during the Great Depression. Interest in this area is on the rise, attracting urban pioneers who are meticulously restoring these elegant Victorian properties and infusing new energy into the surrounding community. Handsome condominiums have sprung up on the south edge of the area, adjacent to downtown. The neighborhood is convenient to downtown amenities and employers as well as public transportation connections and the downtown campus of Florida Community College.
Westside, Whitehouse
The large community of Westside begins Interstate 10 and stretches to Clay County. Bordered on the east by Interstate 295, it covers the land westward to Baker County and east to Riverside. Several small, incorporated towns make up Westside, including Whitehouse, Baldwin, Marietta, and Maxville. Neighborhoods in this area include Ortega Forest, Ortega Hills, Argyle, Lakeshore, Venetia, Cedar Hills, Hyde Grove, Murray Hill, and Normandy. Beautiful woods in this area are ideal for outdoor adventure and hunting, while the river and waterways invite boating, fishing, and water sports. The Jacksonville Naval Station, its associated Cecil Field, and the generation aviation facility of Herlong Airport join a wide variety of residential neighborhoods in Westside.
COMMUNITY PROFILES
Atlantic Beach
City Hall
904-247-5800
www.coab.us
Chamber of Commerce
904-366-6600
www.myjaxchamber.com
Home to the beautiful lakefront retirement community of Selva Marina Country Club and Fleet Landing, Atlantic Beach is a popular home for many retired professionals from the military services and government. Although Atlantic Beach is primarily residential, the place where Neptune and Atlantic beaches meet — known locally as “The Corner” — offers a pleasing mix of restaurants and entertainment spots. The corridors along Atlantic Boulevard and A1A add an abundance of restaurants, strip malls, hotels, and churches. Revitalization throughout the beach communities has resulted in new private and public developments. Nearly 65 acres of lush parkland complements the community’s two miles of white-sand beaches The city also sponsors a medley of activities and programs for residents of all ages and interests. Opportunities include youth baseball and softball, flag football, theatre programming and classes, campouts, a tree lighting ceremony during the holidays, First Night event on New Year’s Eve, and the spring Easter egg hunt.
Jacksonville Beach
City Hall
904-247-6299
www.jacksonvillebeach.org
Chamber of Commerce
904-366-6600
www.myjaxchamber.com
The largest of the beach communities and the commercial hub is Jacksonville Beach, blending residential, commercial, retail, and industrial sectors. Many businesses are located along the Third Street corridor, offering a kaleidoscope of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. This active area offers frequent festivals and celebrations as well as competitive sports events and recreational activities that include golfing, sport fishing, whale watching, nature study, cycling, surfing, wind surfing, and beach combing. South Jacksonville Beach provides a calmer residential environment and more limited beach access. The city’s location on a barrier island between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway creates pristine beaches that remain relative uncrowded. The Sea Walk Pavilion showcases concerts and festivals nearly every weekend from April through October, while waterfront dining features mouth-watering seafood.
Jacksonville Naval Air Station
Base Information
904-542-2345
www.navy.mil/local/nasjax
Base Passes
904-542-4528
www.navy.mil/local/nasjax
One of the major regional employers along the First Coast of Florida is the Jacksonville Naval Air Station. This government installation has been an active part of the City of Jacksonville since its commission in 1940, playing an important role in the local economy. The varied activities involved in operating and maintaining the air station are vital in supporting the national defense mission in war and in peace. The base itself provides a number of outstanding facilities for personnel, including the Navy Lodge, marina and yacht club, and a championship golf course. The Orange Park campus of Webster University is located onboard the Jacksonville Naval Air Station, providing an extended site for innovative and professional educational services. Webster University offers a wide selection of graduate-degree programs to the residents of more than seven counties in northeastern Florida and southeastern Georgia.
Mayport, Mayport Naval Station
Base Information
904-270-5011
Base Passes
904-270-5585
Situated at the mouth of the St. Johns River, the community of Mayport was once a bustling fishing village. Now this area is home to more than 14,000 military personnel and civilians who are stationed or employed at Mayport Naval Base. Mayport has managed to preserve all the charm of a picturesque fishing village where shrimp boats can be seen heading out to sea or returning with the day’s catch. The only ferryboat operating in Florida still carries vehicles and passengers from Mayport across the river to Heckscher Drive. Deep-sea charter boats, fresh seafood restaurants, and a cruise ship with dining options and casino games are a few of the attractions to Mayport. Many of the area’s residential neighborhoods and apartment rentals are occupied by military personnel and civilians who work at Mayport Naval Base. Entertainment and recreational opportunities are abundant in this active First Coast community.
Neptune Beach
City Hall
904-270-2400
http://ci.neptune-beach.fl.us/
Chamber of Commerce
904-366-6600
www.myjaxchamber.com
Sharing many of the attributes and characteristics of Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach offers another quality residential choice for oceanfront properties. The city’s modest population doubles in the summer months as the community welcomes a throng of seasonal residents and vacationers. Both Atlantic Beach and Neptune Beach are essentially fully developed with some light retail services scattered along the A1A corridor. The primarily price differential for homes in this area is based on proximity to the shoreline. Stretching from the Atlantic Ocean to the Intracoastal Waterway, the diverse and attractive neighborhoods in Neptune Beach welcome renters, growing families, and retirees. Planners and residents are joined in their dedication to protect the city’s residential nature and maintain the highest possible quality of life through strict growth management standards.
