Is Jacksonville a Safe City?
Go Back To Previous PageJacksonville is a rapidly growing city in Florida, known for its beautiful beaches, golf courses, excellent weather, and robust local economy. If you’re visiting or considering moving to Jacksonville, you might be concerned about safety. Here’s all the information you need regarding crime rates in Jacksonville, along with a list of the twelve safest neighborhoods in the city.
Is Jacksonville, Florida Safe?
Jacksonville is relatively safe for a large city, but its crime rate is higher than the national average. With a population of 954,614, Jacksonville’s crime rate is 66% higher than the U.S.
average, although this is somewhat lower than that of other major cities, according to law enforcement agencies.
According to FBI data, residents have a 1 in 29 chance of becoming victims of any crime. Jacksonville covers a large area, which means there are many safe neighborhoods to choose from. As with any large city, residents should exercise caution and use common sense when traveling.
1. Eagle Bend
Eagle Bend is considered the safest neighborhood in Jacksonville. This suburban community, with a population of 4,671, offers a relaxed atmosphere and ideal place for families. Eagle Bend is a commuter neighborhood with abundant greenery and local parks, and it is conveniently located near downtown Jacksonville.
The total crime rate in Eagle Bend is 205 incidents per 100,000 residents, making it 91% lower than the national average.
2. Ortega Forest
Ortega Forest is a safe and affluent neighborhood that exudes old Southern charm. This picturesque area features shady streets with oak trees and Southern-style mansions, making it ideal for families and commuters. Ortega Forest boasts one of Florida’s lowest crime data rates, 68% below the state average.
The only downside is the high home prices, which average around $580,634.
3. Isle of Palms
Isle of Palms is a safe and peaceful neighborhood in Jacksonville. Located along a series of canals on the Intracoastal Waterway, this city is family-friendly and offers stunning natural beauty with plenty of opportunities for watersports. The neighborhood features Isle of Palms Park, a 5-acre community park with sports courts, playgrounds, and various attractions.
Regarding safety, Isle of Palms has a low crime rate, with 1,080 incidents per 100,000 residents—61% lower than the average in Jacksonville and 53% lower than the national average. The violent and property crime rates are 59% lower than the rest of the country, and the property crime rate is 52% lower. Residents have a 1 in 92 chance of being a victim of a crime in the Isle of Palms, making it a secure place to live.
4. East Arlington
East Arlington is one of the safest neighborhoods in Jacksonville. It offers a quiet suburban experience close to downtown, making it ideal for those seeking tranquility. The area is primarily surrounded by wetlands, which provide excellent fishing opportunities.
East Arlington also boasts a variety of recreational options, including the Regency Square Mall and the Jacksonville Arboretum and Gardens. With a total crime rate that is 53% lower than the national average, crime is rare in East Arlington.
5. Saint John’s Bluff
St. Johns Bluff is one of the safest neighborhoods in Jacksonville. Located along the St. Johns River in East Jacksonville, this serene community offers breathtaking views and easy access to outdoor recreation. This city has historic attractions, including the Fort Caroline National Memorial and the St. John’s Bluff Battery.
The neighborhood boasts a low total crime rate of 1,090 crimes per 100,000 residents, 40% lower than the average for the rest of Florida and 53% lower than the national average. Additionally, violent crime rates are 60% lower than the average for Jacksonville. In St. Johns Bluff, your odds of becoming a victim of a crime are 1 in 92.
6. Girvin Pointe
In northern Jacksonville, Girvin Pointe is a secure residential community ideal for families and commuters. The neighborhood boasts an impressive safety record, with crime statistics 50% lower than the national average.
Residents can enjoy various recreational activities, including nearby water sports and parks. The median home price in Girvin Pointe is $430,632.
7. Jacksonville Beach
One of Jacksonville’s safest neighborhoods is Jacksonville Beach. This waterfront area is a popular tourist destination known for its bright, sunny beaches and fishing pier that extends into the ocean.
With a population of approximately 19,692, Jacksonville Beach has a total crime rate of 1,428 incidents per 100,000 residents, which is 39% lower than the national average. A top attraction in Jacksonville Beach is the Casa Marina Hotel, a favorite destination for many over the decades. The current median home price in Jacksonville Beach is $589,006.
8. Neptune Beach
Neptune Beach is one of the safest neighborhoods in Jacksonville. This laid-back community has beautiful ocean views and palm tree-lined streets. With a population of 7,217, Neptune Beach has a total crime rate of 1,448 per 100,000 residents, which is 38% lower than the national average.
Residents and visitors can enjoy a diverse selection of highly-rated seafood restaurants and prohibition-era bars. The median home price in Neptune Beach is $703,801.
9. Mandarin
Mandarin is a neighborhood located in southern Jacksonville, near the St. Johns River and Orange Park. This area is known for its tropical scenery, ancient oak trees draped with Spanish moss, marinas, and parks.
Mandarin is ideal for nature enthusiasts and cyclists, as it offers a wealth of green space. Currently, the median home price in Mandarin is $496,171.
10. Black Hammock Island
Black Hammock Island is a seven-mile island surrounded by lush marshlands and trails. This island is home to the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve, a 46,000-acre national park featuring vibrant swamps and wetlands.
The overall crime rate in the town is 1,591 incidents per 100,000 people, which is 26% lower than the Florida average. Black Hammock Island is a fantastic getaway conveniently located within a short drive of downtown Jacksonville.
11. North Beach
North Beach is a sunny beachside community and one of Jacksonville’s safest places to live. With a population of approximately 12,949, it boasts a low violent crime report. The clean and well-maintained area offers excellent beach access and convenient proximity to downtown Jacksonville.
The total crime rate in North Beach stands at 1,722 incidents per 100,000 people, which is 20% lower than the Florida average. Despite its prime location, North Beach remains relatively affordable, with a median home price of $325,193.
12. Sandalwood
Sandalwood is a safe, peaceful suburban community just a short drive from Jacksonville and nearby beaches. It offers fantastic amenities, state parks, and a highly regarded school system.
The current median home price in Sandalwood is $344,475. Most homes are single-family detached houses or condominiums.
Conclusion
Jacksonville is a beautiful North Florida city known for its pleasant weather, sandy beaches, and stable economy. While many Florida cities may have a reputation for being dangerous, Jacksonville is relatively safe for a city of size in the United States. It offers numerous peaceful neighborhoods for both residents and visitors.
However, like any major city, Jacksonville has good and bad areas, so it’s essential to know which neighborhoods to avoid if you’re considering moving to The River City. The homicide rate in Jacksonville is significantly higher than the national average, but it’s important to note that most violent crime tends to be concentrated in specific locations.
Georges has been working in Wall Street for the last 16 years trading derivatives with hedge funds. He has been an active real estate investor for over a decade. Georges graduated from HEC Business School in Paris and holds a master in Finance from ESADE Barcelona.
