Jacksonville

Jacksonville is referred to as Florida's First Coast, the hub of Northeast Florida and one of the fastest growing cities in the Sun Belt. Ideal location, moderate climate and a high-quality lifestyle coupled with a low cost of living allows Jacksonville to easily attract new residents, businesses and investments. As Jacksonville is blossoming into a major-league city, the rest of the world is taking notice; Jacksonville was chosen to be the XXXIX Super Bowl Host in 2004.

Jacksonville is the largest city in the United States in land area. Jacksonville's Metropolitan area consists of Duval, Clay, St. John's, Nassau and Baker counties with a population of more than 1 million residents. There are miles of uncrowded beaches, ecological and nature excursions, world class golf courses and tennis facilities, historical sites, sporting events, a renowned symphony, excellent art museums, festivals, events, river cruises and a riverfront marketplace.

Proximity

Jacksonville is approximately:

• 120 miles from Orlando's theme parks
• 95 miles from Daytona Beach
• 60 miles from Tallahassee
• 30 miles from St. Augustine

Climate

Jacksonville's climate is considered to be ideal: mild in the winter, cool in the spring and fall, and warm in the summer with plenty of sunshine all year long. The average annual temperature is 78.4 degrees, with an average in the upper 80s and mid 90s during the warmest months - June, July and August, and an average in the 50s during the coolest months - December, January and February.

Housing

Even though Jacksonville encompasses more than 841 square acres of land, it is easy to find a niche within one of the many neighborhoods. Housing options include single family subdivisions, gated communities, condos and apartments. The average price of a home is $120,000 within the First Coast's five counties.

Education

Jacksonville's educational system offers parents and students a number of choices. Several magnet schools in the Duval County Public School System have received national recognition. Florida Community College in Jacksonville, which includes many convenient neighborhood campuses, is the 10th largest community college system in the United States. There are a variety of secondary and post-secondary educational options available at institutions in Jacksonville including Florida Coastal School of Law, Edward Waters College, University of North Florida, Jacksonville University and the University of Phoenix.

Recreation

First Coast residents have several entertainment and recreation choices. Moderate year round temperatures make it easy to enjoy outdoor activities. The St. Johns River surrounds Jacksonville with its many waterways and inlets, and with the Atlantic Ocean just minutes away there are plenty of "fun-in-the water" activities. Jacksonville attracts many nationally known performers and hosts several festivals. Sports enthusiasts enjoy the NFL's Jacksonville Jaguar Fever, a Suns baseball game at Jacksonville's new world-class ballpark, or play golf at one of more than 40 golf courses.