Jacksonville vs Atlanta: Which City is Right for You? Comparing Real Estate, Cost of Living, Culture, and More
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Choosing between an apartment in Jacksonville, FL, and a house in Atlanta, GA, may come down to the lifestyle you’re after. Jacksonville boasts warm weather and beach access with a laid-back vibe, while Atlanta is a bustling metropolis known for its entertainment industry and Southern hospitality. If you’re drawn to Jacksonville’s coastal lifestyle or Atlanta’s thriving urban scene, this decision is worth careful consideration.
This article will help you break down the differences, from housing costs and job markets to cultural and recreational opportunities, so you can make an informed choice about where to plant your roots.
Housing in Jacksonville vs Atlanta
Jacksonville and Atlanta offer contrasting housing markets, with Jacksonville’s beachside appeal and suburban feel versus Atlanta’s bustling urban landscape and strong real estate market. Here’s what to know about housing in each city.
Housing in Jacksonville
Jacksonville’s housing market provides a blend of coastal and suburban living with generally more affordable pricing than Atlanta. Buyers and renters can find everything from ocean-view condos to single-family homes in spacious neighborhoods in Jacksonville. The city’s location and relatively low housing costs make it attractive to those looking for a slower-paced lifestyle without sacrificing space and amenities.
Average rental cost: The average rent for an apartment in Jacksonville is approximately $1,334 per month, offering affordable options for those looking to enjoy the city’s coastal lifestyle.
Housing in Atlanta
Atlanta’s real estate market is more competitive, with a variety of housing options spanning luxury condos in Midtown to suburban homes in Atlanta neighborhoods like Buckhead and Sandy Springs. Known for its neighborhoods and dynamic growth, Atlanta offers a bustling city atmosphere with access to surrounding suburbs. The housing market is diverse and appeals to both young professionals and families looking for urban amenities and Southern hospitality.
Average rental cost: Renting an apartment in Atlanta averages around $1,812 per month, with popular neighborhoods commanding premium prices.
Deciding between renting or buying your next home? Explore your options.
Compare the costs of renting vs buying and find a lender to secure your mortgage.
Deciding between renting or buying your next home?
Compare the costs of renting vs buying and find a lender to secure your mortgage.
Cost of living in Jacksonville vs Atlanta
Overall, the cost of living in Atlanta is 4% higher than in Jacksonville, with notable differences in utilities, transportation, and lifestyle expenses. Jacksonville remains a popular choice for those seeking a more budget-friendly lifestyle in the Southeast.
1. Utilities
Utilities in Jacksonville are about 5% less expensive than in Atlanta. Jacksonville’s mild winters and newer infrastructure help keep utility costs manageable, whereas Atlanta’s seasonal temperature swings contribute to higher energy expenses.
2. Groceries
Groceries in Jacksonville are approximately 2% more expensive than in Atlanta. Jacksonville’s proximity to agricultural areas helps maintain reasonable food prices, while Atlanta’s urban density and transportation logistics can increase costs slightly.
3. Transportation
Transportation costs are 16% higher in Atlanta compared to Jacksonville. Atlanta’s traffic congestion and extensive public transit network add to commuting expenses, while Jacksonville’s more car-friendly and less congested layout offers lower transportation costs overall.
4. Healthcare
Healthcare in Jacksonville is about 25% more affordable than in Atlanta. Jacksonville’s lower demand for specialized care and reduced facility costs contribute to accessible healthcare, while Atlanta’s larger population and extensive medical facilities elevate healthcare costs.
5. Lifestyle
Lifestyle expenses in Atlanta are around 3% higher than in Jacksonville. Atlanta’s dynamic arts and entertainment scene, along with diverse dining options, adds to entertainment costs, while Jacksonville offers similar activities at a more budget-friendly rate.
Jacksonville vs Atlanta in size and population
Jacksonville and Atlanta are notable Southern cities with contrasting sizes and populations. Jacksonville, covering a vast 874 square miles with around 950,000 residents, is the largest U.S. city by land area, providing a more suburban, open feel, especially with its coastal access. Atlanta, by comparison, spans about 137 square miles with a population of roughly 500,000, making it more densely populated and filled with high-rises and vibrant neighborhoods. This difference in density gives Jacksonville a laid-back, spacious vibe, while Atlanta’s compact, lively core offers a true urban energy.
Weather and climate in Jacksonville vs Atlanta
Jacksonville’s climate and Atlanta’s climate have generally warm climates, though Jacksonville’s coastal location creates a humid, subtropical environment with mild winters and hot, humid summers. In contrast, Atlanta experiences more seasonal variation, with colder winters and occasional light snow. Jacksonville is more exposed to hurricanes and tropical storms in late summer and fall, while Atlanta, further inland, faces occasional severe thunderstorms and tornadoes. Both cities enjoy long, warm seasons with mild, pleasant spring and fall weather, making outdoor activities popular.
The job market in Jacksonville vs Atlanta
Jacksonville: Expanding healthcare and finance sectors
Jacksonville’s job market is anchored by its healthcare and finance industries, with an employment rate of about 60% and a median household income of approximately $68,000. The average hourly wage in Jacksonville is around $28.55, reflective of the city’s lower cost of living. Major employers like Bank of America and Baptist Health support the job market, while the logistics industry is also significant due to the city’s large port. Jacksonville’s economy provides steady opportunities across healthcare, finance, and logistics, making it a balanced job market.
Atlanta: Diverse industries from film to finance
Atlanta boasts a diverse economy, with finance, entertainment, and tech as key drivers, resulting in a robust employment rate of about 66% and a median household income of $85,000. The average hourly wage is $32.17, competitive for the Southeast and supported by a lower cost of living than many coastal cities. Major companies like Coca-Cola, Delta Air Lines, and CNN offer abundant career opportunities, while the city’s thriving film industry attracts professionals in media and production. Atlanta’s expanding job market provides career options across multiple sectors, appealing to a wide range of professionals.
Transportation in Jacksonville vs Atlanta
Jacksonville: Car-dependent with limited transit
Jacksonville’s sprawling area and suburban layout make it a car-centric city, with most residents relying on personal vehicles. The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) offers buses and a Skyway monorail in the downtown area, but public transit options are limited. Biking and walking are less common due to the city’s spread-out neighborhoods, though bike lanes are available in some areas. Overall, Jacksonville’s transportation system favors car travel, with ample parking and roadways designed for vehicles.
Atlanta: Growing public transit and walkable neighborhoods
Atlanta’s transportation system is a blend of car reliance and expanding public transit options. MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) offers buses and rail lines that connect downtown to outlying areas, though car travel remains popular due to Atlanta’s spread. Some neighborhoods, like Midtown and Buckhead, are walkable, and biking is on the rise with new bike lanes and the Atlanta BeltLine trail. Atlanta’s transit options are growing, making it easier to navigate the city without a car.
Jacksonville: Jacksonville International Airport and coastal connections
Jacksonville International Airport is the main air travel hub, offering domestic flights and a few international destinations. Amtrak connects Jacksonville to major East Coast cities, and Greyhound provides bus travel across the region. Jacksonville’s St. Johns River offers scenic river cruises and ferry services, adding coastal travel options for residents and visitors. While less extensive than Atlanta, Jacksonville’s travel infrastructure provides accessible connections.
Atlanta: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and major transit routes
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, one of the busiest in the world, provides extensive domestic and international flight options, making Atlanta a major travel hub. Amtrak’s Crescent line connects Atlanta to cities from New Orleans to New York, while Greyhound and Megabus offer bus services throughout the Southeast. MARTA buses and rail lines make local travel convenient, and scenic cruises on the Chattahoochee River provide a unique view of Atlanta’s surroundings. Atlanta’s central location and major airport make it ideal for cross-country and international travel.
Lifestyle and things to do in Jacksonville, FL and Atlanta
A day in the life of a Jacksonvillian
Life in Jacksonville is marked by beach days, riverfront parks, and a relaxed pace. Mornings often start with coffee at a local café or a beachside walk before heading to work in industries like healthcare, finance, or logistics. Weekends are spent enjoying outdoor activities like fishing, kayaking on the St. Johns River, or attending local festivals. Jacksonville’s beaches, parks, and live music venues create a laid-back lifestyle for residents.
Living in Atlanta is a mix of Southern charm and urban energy, with a thriving arts and entertainment scene. Residents might start their day with a walk through Piedmont Park before heading to work in finance, media, or tech. On weekends, Atlantans enjoy dining in vibrant neighborhoods like Buckhead, exploring art galleries, or hiking the nearby mountains. The city’s music and film industries add to its cultural richness, offering something for everyone.
Jacksonville’s food scene is a blend of Southern comfort and coastal flavors, with seafood taking center stage. Dishes like shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, and freshly caught fish are staples. The Riverside and San Marco neighborhoods feature eclectic restaurants, while food festivals like the Jacksonville Taco and Tequila Festival highlight local flavor and community spirit. Jacksonville’s cultural scene includes live music venues, art galleries, and theaters, with the annual Jacksonville Jazz Festival drawing crowds for food, music, and entertainment. The city’s blend of Southern charm and beach-town vibe make it a unique spot for food lovers and culture seekers alike.
Atlanta: Southern hospitality with a modern twist
Atlanta’s food scene combines Southern tradition with modern flair, from iconic fried chicken and biscuits to cutting-edge fusion cuisine. Neighborhoods like Midtown and Little Five Points offer everything from BBQ joints to high-end eateries, making Atlanta a true food destination. Festivals like Taste of Atlanta celebrate local chefs and cuisine, while the city’s film, art, and music scenes contribute to its vibrant culture. Atlanta is also home to a rich history in civil rights and a growing theater and arts community, with venues like the Fox Theatre and the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra anchoring the city’s artistic landscape.
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Sports scene in Jacksonville and Atlanta
Jacksonville: Football fandom and coastal sports spirit
Jacksonville’s sports culture revolves around the Jacksonville Jaguars, with football season drawing enthusiastic fans to TIAA Bank Field. College football also has a strong presence, with the annual Florida-Georgia game bringing fans from both states to Jacksonville’s shores. The city’s coastal location lends itself to water sports and outdoor activities, making it a haven for those who enjoy both traditional sports and beachside recreation. Jacksonville’s sports culture is a mix of hometown pride and Southern hospitality.
Atlanta: Southern sports hub and fan dedication
Atlanta’s sports scene is diverse, with major teams like the Falcons in football and the Braves in baseball creating a dedicated fan base. Truist Park, home of the Braves, and Mercedes-Benz Stadium draw large crowds and foster a spirited sports atmosphere. Basketball and soccer are also popular, with the Hawks and Atlanta United FC adding to the city’s dynamic sports culture. Atlanta’s fans are known for their loyalty, filling stadiums across the city and celebrating the unique Southern flair that characterizes Atlanta’s sports identity.
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