Cost of Living in Jacksonville, FL

With a cost of living index of 98, Jacksonville, FL is right around the national average in cost. Living here is 2% cheaper than the national average and 12% below the Florida state average of 110. As a major city with a population of 961,739, Jacksonville offers a wide range of housing options, employment opportunities, and urban amenities.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Jacksonville's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $1,375 (4% above the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $266,100 (13% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 4x the median household income — a moderately affordable ratio by today's standards.

The median household income in Jacksonville is $66,981, which is 11% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 25% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Jacksonville. The area sees an average annual temperature of 71.4°F, with summers averaging 83°F and winters around 58°F. Annual rainfall totals 47.6 inches spread over roughly 120 days.

Everyday prices in the Jacksonville, FL (Metropolitan Statistical Area) metro area are generally below the national average. Out of 6 common items tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 6 are priced lower than the US average. These real-world prices — from groceries to electricity — add up and should be factored into any cost of living comparison.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.