Jacksonville vs Atlanta: Which City is Right for You? Comparing Real Estate, Cost of Living, Culture, and More

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.

• Median home cost: The median home sale price in Jacksonville is around $310,000, with a range of options near the beach and inland.
• 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.

• Median home cost: The median home sale price in Atlanta is around $419,750, with a range of affordable options in suburban areas.
• Average rental cost: Renting an apartment in Atlanta averages around $1,812 per month, with popular neighborhoods commanding premium prices.

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.

• Walk Score: 26
• Bike Score: 41
• Transit Score: 21

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.

• Walk Score: 48
• Bike Score: 42
• Transit Score: 44

Travel in and out of Jacksonville vs Atlanta

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.

Top things to do in Jacksonville:

• Explore the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
• Visit the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens
• Spend a day at Jacksonville Beach
• Attend live shows at the Florida Theatre
• Wander through Riverside Arts Market

Google Street View of  Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve

Jacksonville parks and outdoor activities:

• Swim or surf at Jacksonville Beach
• Hike through Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve
• Picnic at Memorial Park along the St. Johns River
• Bike through Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park
• Paddle on the Intracoastal Waterway

Google Street View of Jacksonville Beach

Jacksonville tourist attractions:

• Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
• Jacksonville Beach
• MOSH (Museum of Science & History)
• Amelia Island
• Fort Caroline National Memorial

A day in the life of an Atlantan

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.

Top things to do in Atlanta:

• Visit the Atlanta Botanical Garden
• Tour the Georgia Aquarium
• Explore the High Museum of Art
• Catch a concert at the Fox Theatre
• Stroll through Ponce City Market

Google Street View of Atlanta Botanical Garden

Atlanta parks and outdoor activities:

• Walk or bike the Atlanta BeltLine
• Picnic at Piedmont Park
• Hike at Stone Mountain Park
• Kayak on the Chattahoochee River
• Explore Grant Park

Google Street View of Stone Mountain Park

Atlanta tourist attractions:

• Georgia Aquarium
• World of Coca-Cola
• Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park
• Atlanta History Center
• CNN Center

Food and culture in Jacksonville and Atlanta

Jacksonville: Coastal cuisine and Southern charm

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.

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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