It’s no surprise Florida is at the top of the list when it comes to states to retire in. With 1,3500 miles of coastline to choose from the difficult part is deciding where to settle down.
We’re here to make the case for Jacksonville. People move to Jacksonville for many reasons. It’s relaxing and fun, the neighborhoods and communities are welcoming and warm, the weather is great, and there are so many dining and entertainment options.
Keep reading to see the 7 Reasons People Love Retiring in Jacksonville.
1. The Suburbs are Welcoming
Jacksonville is home to numerous suburbs perfectly suited for retirement. The Riverside neighborhood is filled with volunteer organizations, while Orange Park is known for their close-knit community and local produce. You really can’t go wrong, as no one neighborhood is better than the other.
2. The Food Scene
With new restaurants popping up regularly, barbecue joints to satisfy your cravings, breakfast spots to start your morning on the right foot, and an array of interesting food trucks, there are so many delicious dining options in Jacksonville. When it comes to what the area offers, you’ll never run out of places to eat at.
3. The Proximity To Other Places
Jacksonville’s ideal location in Northeast Florida makes day trips easier than ever. Have friends in the next town over? Want to check out that new Mexican restaurant outside of the city? It’s no problem getting anywhere and everywhere. There are several short road trips you can take from the city that make for fun excursions.
4. The Amenities
Area Vibes gave the amenities in Jacksonville an A+. When it comes to getting groceries, going shopping, and grabbing a coffee, you really can’t beat what the city offers retirees. Not to mention the incredible parks, the amazing libraries, the entertainment options, and the number of great fitness centers. Jacksonville’s public transit is top notch as well, so getting around to see all these things is as easy as can be.
5. The Low Cost Of Living
People love retiring and living in Jacksonville because the cost of living is so low. In fact, it’s lower than both the state and national averages. The housing costs in Jacksonville are also a lot more affordable than in similar cities across the state, coming in at 5% less than the national average. Even transportation, utilities, and groceries all boast a lower than average cost.
6. The Golfing is World-Class
Do you enjoy hitting the links and spending time on the green? Or are you new to the sport and looking to work on your backswing? Regardless, the best golf courses in North Florida will be right around the corner from your new home. To name a few of the popular ones in the area, there’s the Bent Creek Golf Course, Panther Creek Golf Club, and Hyde Park Golf Club.
7. And, Of Course, The Weather
Aside from the weather elevating your mood, it also helps your overall health. The Arthritis Foundation shared a study from Tufts University in 2007, where they discovered every 10-degree drop in temperature corresponded with an incremental increase in arthritis pain. Your kids and grandkids will want to visit all the time due to your warm and sunny location.
The long and short, Jacksonville is a great place to retire and we’re happy to call it home ourselves.
