Jacksonville, FL

What’s it like buying a home in Jacksonville?

Jacksonville is a military town with Naval Station Mayport and NAS Jacksonville. It is also one of the more affordable Florida metros. You get a lot of house for the money compared to Tampa or Orlando. The market is competitive but not as heated as South Florida. If you are military or just want Florida without the premium, Jax is worth a close look. Get pre-approved and know your numbers before you shop.

What’s the average home price in Jacksonville?

The median home price in Jacksonville is around $310,000. That is lower than Tampa and Orlando. You can find solid homes in the $250s and up. New construction and nicer suburbs push into the $400s and beyond. Prices have been trending up but are still reasonable for Florida. Set your budget and get your financing in place so you can move when you find the right place.

What are the best neighborhoods in Jacksonville for families?

Nocatee and St. Johns are popular with families and have strong schools. Mandarin and Southside offer good value and solid neighborhoods. Fleming Island is a bit south with good schools and a suburban feel. Riverside and San Marco are more urban and walkable. Compare schools, commute to base or work, and flood zones. Insurance and taxes vary by area.

What mortgage rates are available in Jacksonville?

Rates are national. Your rate in Jacksonville is the same as anywhere else for the same loan type. What is local is your price range and how much house you can get for your payment. We shop 100+ lenders so you get a competitive rate. In a military-heavy market, we also make sure VA and other programs are priced right.

What loan programs work best in Jacksonville?

VA loans are huge here. Naval Station Mayport and NAS Jacksonville mean a lot of active-duty and veterans. Zero down and no PMI with VA can make a big difference. FHA and conventional are also common for first-timers and relocations. We work with many VA-friendly lenders and can walk you through eligibility and the best options for your situation.

How much do you need for a down payment in Jacksonville?

At a $310,000 median, 3% down is about $9,300 (conventional first-time). FHA at 3.5% is about $10,850. VA can be zero down. 20% down would be $62,000. Add closing costs and reserves. Do not forget insurance. Even at lower price points, flood and wind can add to your monthly payment. We will show you the full picture.

What are property taxes like in Jacksonville?

Florida property taxes are often lower than in many other states. In the Jacksonville area you might see effective rates around 0.96% or so of assessed value. Homestead exemption can lower your taxable value for a primary home. On a $310,000 home you could pay roughly $3,000 or more per year before exemptions. Check the county for exact numbers.

Jacksonville vs Orlando: which is better for homebuyers?

Jacksonville is more affordable and has a strong military presence. Orlando has theme parks and a bigger tourism economy. Both have no state income tax. If budget and value matter most, Jacksonville often wins. If you want to be near the parks and that economy, Orlando has more of that. Commute and job location should drive your choice.

Is Jacksonville a good real estate investment?

Jacksonville has seen steady demand and growth. It is a popular market for investors looking for lower entry prices than South Florida. Rental demand is solid, especially near the bases. Run your numbers including insurance and reserves. We can help you see what loan options work for an investment or second home.

Who’s the best mortgage lender in Jacksonville?

We think a broker beats one bank. Mpire Direct shops your loan across 100+ lenders so you get the best rate and terms. We know the Jacksonville market and we work with a lot of military families and VA loans. Take our 60-second quiz to see what you qualify for. No credit pull, no commitment.