Uncover the Cost of Living in Jacksonville, FL

One significant factor in this city’s appeal for homebuyers is that the cost of living in Jacksonville, FL, is about 10% lower than the national average, according to Payscale® as of March 2026. Payscale also finds that housing costs are particularly attractive, being around 20% lower than the national benchmark, with transportation and utilities easier on your wallet as well. 

In this guide, we explore the Jacksonville cost of living, from housing and utilities to taxes, groceries, and recreation costs. Having a clear picture of Jacksonville living expenses, in addition to average salaries and the income needed to live comfortably here, can be beneficial if you’re considering a move to this coastal city in Northeast Florida.

Summary:

• Housing Costs in Jacksonville, Florida

• Other Living Expenses in Jacksonville, Florida

  • Grocery Shopping and Dining Out in Jacksonville

  • Transportation Options and Fuel Costs in Jacksonville

  • Healthcare and Insurance Costs in Jacksonville

  • Utilities, Internet, and Phone Expenses in Jacksonville

  • Tax Rates in the Jacksonville Area

  • Recreation Costs in Jacksonville, Florida

• Average Salary in Jacksonville, FL

• Jacksonville Cost of Living Comparison

• Average Cost of New Construction Homes in Jacksonville by Neighborhood

• Cost of Living in Jacksonville, Florida: Conclusion

Housing Costs in Jacksonville, Florida

Housing expenses are typically the biggest factor in any Jacksonville, FL, living costs budget, and reasonable home prices are where the city really stands out. According to Redfin®, as of March 2026, the Jacksonville housing market can be rather competitive, with a median home sale price of around $300K and houses selling in an average of 84 days. That average price point may appeal to homebuyers considering a move to the city.

Renting in Jacksonville is also relatively affordable compared to national averages. As of March 2026, Apartments.com™ reports the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is about $1,300 per month, roughly 20% lower than the national average of $1,600. Studio apartments average $1K per month, while two-bedroom units average $1,500 monthly. Larger rentals, such as three-bedroom living spaces, can average $1,800 or more, depending on location and amenities.

To offer a broader perspective on housing costs in Jacksonville, February 2026 data from MIT’s Living Wage Calculator finds annual housing costs to be approximately $16.2K for a single adult, $16.5K for two working adults, and $19.8K for a household of two working adults with two children. Overall, the reasonable Jacksonville, Florida, cost of living for housing tends to be one of the city’s strongest advantages for residents.

Other Living Expenses in Jacksonville, Florida

While housing is a prominent piece of the financial puzzle, the average cost of living in Jacksonville, FL, also depends on everyday expenses like food, transportation, healthcare, and utilities. These living costs tend to align with or land slightly below national averages, which can help you keep your Jacksonville cost of living manageable.

Grocery Shopping and Dining Out in Jacksonville

From a broader budgeting perspective, the MIT Living Wage Calculator’s February 2026 data estimates that a single adult spends about $4.5K annually on food, while two working adults spend around $8.2K, and larger households of two working adults with two children spend roughly $13.2K. Here are a few examples of the costs that make up those totals: 

• Average grocery basket prices: Payscale offers a good snapshot of what a typical grocery basket looks like for residents shopping week to week as of March 2026. A loaf of bread is around $4.30, a gallon of milk is about $4.98, a dozen eggs averages $4.92, and a quick meal like a hamburger runs approximately $6.08.

• Sample restaurant meal costs: At TacoLu, a casual Mexican restaurant in Jacksonville, specialty tacos run about $4–$6 each, and burritos range from $13–$16. For a more upscale waterfront dining experience, Marker 32 offers entrées that cost between $30–$50. 

• Cost comparison vs. national averages: Overall, Payscale’s March 2026 data finds that grocery prices in Jacksonville are about 5% higher than the national average. 

Transportation Options and Fuel Costs in Jacksonville

Transportation costs can add up when evaluating the cost of living in Jacksonville, Florida. That’s because the city is fairly spread out, and most residents rely on their cars for commuting and everyday errands. AAA® reports that for Jacksonville drivers, regular gas averages $4.08 per gallon as of April 2026. Public transportation options exist, but aren’t as widely used.

Overall, according to the February 2026 data from the MIT Living Wage Calculator, annual transportation costs average about $8.8K for a single adult, $10.2K for two working adults, and $14.8K for households with two working adults and two children. These costs include fuel, maintenance, insurance, and other vehicle-related expenses.

Healthcare and Insurance Costs in Jacksonville

Healthcare expenses tend to vary from person to person, but are an essential factor in the Jacksonville cost of living. The good news is that, according to Payscale, healthcare expenses in Jacksonville are 17% lower than the national average as of March 2026. That level of affordability can make a noticeable difference when budgeting for routine care and unexpected medical needs. On a day-to-day level, Payscale’s data finds that a typical doctor’s visit averages around $127, a dental appointment is about $102, and a trip to the optometrist is approximately $115.

Insurance premiums vary depending on your plan selection. For Florida residents who pay for their own insurance, premiums average $859 per month for a 40-year-old, according to ValuePenguin® as of January 2026, though lower-cost plans are available that range from $554–$641.

MIT’s Living Wage Calculator, as of February 2026, offers a big-picture perspective on annual healthcare expenses in Jacksonville, with a single adult averaging about $3.2K in costs and two working adults with two children averaging $11.2K. These figures include insurance premiums, out-of-pocket costs, and routine medical spending.

Utilities, Internet, and Phone Expenses in Jacksonville

Utility costs in Jacksonville are 9% lower than the national average (Payscale, March 2026), though costs can fluctuate depending on your home size and seasonal energy use. Florida’s heat and humidity, especially during the summer, may lead to higher electricity bills when air conditioning runs more consistently.

Payscale’s March 2026 data also reports that monthly energy bills can average $200, while phone bills run about $178 per month. For annual internet and mobile expenses, the MIT Living Wage Calculator estimates that these combined costs total about $1.6K for a single adult and up to $2.2K for larger households with two adults and children.

Tax Rates in the Jacksonville Area

Based on its February 2026 data, MIT’s Living Wage Calculator finds that a single adult pays approximately $6.9K in annual taxes, two working adults pay around $7.2K, and a household of two working adults with two children pays about $11.3K. Here are a few more helpful benchmarks for how taxes in Jacksonville, Florida, fit into overall living costs:

• Income tax: One of the biggest tax advantages of living in Florida is the lack of a state income tax, which may make a noticeable difference in overall take-home income, according to the Florida Department of Revenue as of March 2026.

• Property tax: Per the Tax Foundation, the 2026 effective property tax rate in Florida is 0.74%. However, rates vary depending on home value and county assessments. According to SmartAsset®, as of March 2026, a $300K home in Jacksonville (as part of Duval County) would incur a 0.779% property tax rate. 

• Sales tax: According to Avalara®, the minimum combined sales tax rate in Jacksonville is 7.5% as of March 2026. That figure includes a 6.0% Florida state sales tax and a 1.5% county tax, with no additional city tax applied.

Recreation Costs in Jacksonville, Florida

Living in Jacksonville means you can find plenty of ways to stay active and social without spending a ton. Whether you’re into outdoor adventure, fitness, or casual entertainment, there’s a diverse mix of free and paid options to fit different lifestyles and budgets. Here are a few examples:

• Jacksonville Beach: One of the biggest perks of living in Jacksonville is enjoying direct access to the coast. Jacksonville Beach is open to the public year-round with free beach access, ideal for sunny weekends, workouts, or outings with loved ones. 

• Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park: This 450-acre park offers hiking and biking trails, kayaking, camping, and beach access, all in one spot. Entrance fees are $5 per vehicle, a low-cost option for a full day of outdoor activity. 

• Cinemark Tinseltown & XD: A go-to spot for movie nights, standard tickets at this theatre typically cost $12–$15 per person, depending on the showtime and format. 

• Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens: One of the top attractions in Jacksonville, the zoo features over 2,000 animals and themed exhibits. General admission ranges from $21–$51, depending on the day you visit and whether you purchase tickets in advance.

Average Salary in Jacksonville, FL

As of March 2026, ZipRecruiter® reports the average annual salary in Jacksonville is about $58,545, or roughly $28.15 per hour, with most workers earning between $39,718 and $75,860 per year depending on experience and industry. 

Given that wage range, the average salary needed to live in Jacksonville, FL, tends to line up nicely with the overall cost of living, which is likely a significant reason the city feels attainable for a wide range of homebuyers. Specifically, the MIT Living Wage Calculator’s February 2026 data finds that a single adult needs to earn $41,056 (after taxes) annually to cover basic expenses, while a household with two working adults and two children requires a combined income of $98,659 per year.

Jacksonville Cost of Living Comparison

A Jacksonville, FL, cost of living comparison with other cities in the South can help you better understand how this city’s living expenses stack up against similar metro areas. The following comparisons are based on the Forbes® Cost of Living Calculator as of March 2026. Overall, Jacksonville often comes in slightly lower or more balanced than other cities across key categories like housing and everyday expenses:

• Jacksonville, FL vs. Atlanta, GA: The cost of living in Atlanta is roughly 5% higher than in Jacksonville. Housing costs in Atlanta are about 4% higher, transportation expenses jump significantly to 20% higher, and healthcare costs trend higher as well. To maintain the same lifestyle that a $70K annual salary would offer you in Jacksonville, you’d need to earn $73.6K in Atlanta.

• Jacksonville, FL vs. Orlando, FL: The overall cost of living in Orlando is only 1% higher than in Jacksonville. Home prices are 3% higher in Orlando, but rent is lower than in Jacksonville. Overall, you’d only require a slight bump of $70.5K in salary in Orlando to enjoy the same lifestyle that a $70K salary gives you in Jacksonville.

• Jacksonville, FL vs. Houston, TX: Houston is slightly more expensive, with an overall cost of living that’s about 3% higher than in Jacksonville. However, while housing costs are around 1% higher in Houston, transportation and healthcare expenses tend to be more expensive in Jacksonville, which may offset some of those savings. You would need an annual salary of $72.3K in Houston to live a similar lifestyle to a $70K salary in Jacksonville. 

Average Cost of New Construction Homes in Jacksonville by Neighborhood

The cost of new construction homes in Jacksonville can vary depending on location. Factors like land availability, proximity to the coast or major business hubs, and overall demand all play a role in pricing, along with neighborhood amenities such as pools, parks, and other features. Areas closer to St. Johns County or the beaches tend to have a higher price point, while inland communities often offer greater affordability. Overall, Jacksonville offers homebuyers a range of options, whether you’re prioritizing location, lifestyle, or maximizing your home’s value.

North Jacksonville

North Jacksonville is one of the fastest-growing and most sought-after areas in Jacksonville. Residents benefit from access to top-rated St. Johns County schools, per GreatSchools.org (March 2026), and proximity to major roadways like I-95, for a more straightforward commute to Downtown Jacksonville. The area offers a quieter, suburban feel while still being within close proximity of shopping centers, dining, and everyday essentials. Nearby attractions include the St. Johns Town Center and historic attractions in St. Augustine, for a mix of convenience and weekend activities. According to NewHomeSource™, the average cost to build a new home in this area typically ranges from the mid $200Ks to the mid $800Ks as of March 2026. Pulte new construction homes in Jacksonville, FL, start in the low $400Ks.

St. Augustine

St. Augustine offers coastal living and a deep-rooted history, helping make it one of the most unique places to live in Northeast Florida. Known as the nation’s oldest city, it features landmarks like Castillo de San Marcos, St. George Street, and miles of nearby beaches. Residents enjoy access to highly rated schools (GreatSchools.org, March 2026), healthcare facilities, and a growing number of retail and dining options. The area is also well connected via I-95 and U.S. 1, offering convenient commutes to Jacksonville while maintaining a more laid-back coastal lifestyle. As of March 2026, NewHomeSource finds the average cost to build a new home in St. Augustine ranges from the mid $200Ks to $2.1M, depending on location and proximity to the coast. Our new construction homes in St. Augustine, FL, start in the mid $300Ks.

Wildlight

Wildlight is a thoughtfully planned community located north of Jacksonville near the Florida-Georgia border, offering a more modern living experience. The area is anchored by amenities such as Wildlight Elementary School, UF Health North campus, and nearby YMCA facilities. Residents also enjoy access to parks, trails, and outdoor recreation, including proximity to the Timucuan Ecological Preserve and Amelia Island beaches. With easy access to I-95 and the Jacksonville International Airport, Wildlight is well-positioned for both commuting and travel. Per NewHomeSource, the cost of new construction homes in Wildlight generally ranges from the low $200Ks to $1M as of March 2026. Our new construction homes in Wildlight, FL, start in the upper $300Ks.

Middleburg

Middleburg is located in Clay County, an area known for its more relaxed pace and lower overall cost of living compared to coastal neighborhoods. The community offers convenient access to the First Coast Expressway, helping streamline commutes into Jacksonville and surrounding areas. Residents benefit from nearby shopping, dining, and outdoor recreation, including Black Creek and Jennings State Forest. The average cost to build a new home in Middleburg, according to NewHomeSource as of March 2026, ranges from the low $200Ks to $1.3M. Our new construction homes in Middleburg, FL, start in the low $300Ks.

Green Cove Springs

Green Cove Springs is a growing area in Clay County known for its small-town feel, lower cost of living, and easy access to Jacksonville via the First Coast Expressway. Located along the St. Johns River, the area offers scenic waterfront views, outdoor recreation at places like Spring Park and the Clay County Fairgrounds, and a quieter pace compared to more urban parts of the Jacksonville metro area. Residents benefit from nearby shopping and dining in Fleming Island, along with access to Clay County District schools. According to NewHomeSource, the average cost to build a new home in Green Cove Springs typically falls within the low $200Ks to $2.1M as of March 2026. Pulte new construction homes in Green Cove Springs, FL, start in the mid $300Ks.

Cost of Living in Jacksonville, Florida: Conclusion

The cost of living in Jacksonville, FL, strikes a nice balance, especially in a coastal market. Housing costs remain relatively affordable, and while some everyday living expenses like groceries may run slightly higher, lower costs in areas like transportation, utilities, and taxes help even things out. When you factor in solid average salaries and no state income tax, Jacksonville stands out as a place where your money can go further without sacrificing lifestyle.

For many homebuyers, Jacksonville offers access to beaches, major employers, established healthcare systems, and a range of neighborhoods that fit different lifestyles and budgets. If you’re considering moving to Jacksonville, this city can deliver both value and livability. It’s a place where you can find space to grow, enjoy a laid-back coastal lifestyle, and still feel confident that your budget aligns with your long-term goals.

Explore new construction homes in Jacksonville, Florida, today, or browse more Pulte blogs. You may also enjoy our new home communities in Jacksonville by Centex®.

Written By: Jordan Thomson, Freelance Writer