If you’re considering a move to Jacksonville, you may be wondering Can You Live in Jacksonville Without a Car?
While the city is known for its car-centric culture, there are many options for sustainable transportation.
From walkable neighborhoods to public transit and ride-sharing, living car-free in Jacksonville is possible.
Join the conversation and learn more about the challenges and rewards of sustainable transportation in the River City.
Key Takeaways
- Jacksonville is a sprawling city, but it’s entirely possible to live there without a car.
- The city has an extensive public transit system, as well as bike-friendly neighborhoods and ride-sharing services.
- Choosing the right neighborhood is key to living in Jacksonville without a car, and it can be more affordable than you might think.
Living in Jacksonville without a Car
If you’re considering living in Jacksonville without a car, there are certainly benefits and challenges to be aware of. While it’s certainly possible to get around without a car, it may require some adjustments to your lifestyle. Here are some things to consider:
Benefits of Living without a Car
Living in Jacksonville without a car can have some major benefits. For one, you’ll save a lot of money on car payments, insurance, and gas. You’ll also get more exercise, which can be great for your health. Walking and biking are both great ways to stay active and get around the city.
Another benefit is that you’ll be doing your part to reduce traffic congestion and air pollution. By not driving a car, you’ll be helping to make Jacksonville a more sustainable and livable city.
Challenges of Living without a Car
Of course, there are also some challenges to living in Jacksonville without a car. For one, the city is quite spread out, which can make it difficult to get around on foot or bike. While there are some areas that are more walkable and bike-friendly than others, you may still find that you need to rely on public transportation to get to some places.
Speaking of public transportation, Jacksonville’s system is somewhat limited compared to some other cities. While there are buses and a monorail system called the Skyway, these options may not be as convenient or reliable as you’d like.
If you do choose to live in Jacksonville without a car, you’ll need to be prepared to plan your trips carefully and allow for extra time to get where you need to go. You may also need to invest in a good bike and some quality walking shoes.
Transportation Options in Jacksonville
If you are considering living in Jacksonville without a car, there are several transportation options available to you. Here are some of the most popular options:
Public Transportation
Jacksonville has a public transportation system called the Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA). JTA operates buses, trolleys, and a monorail system called the Skyway. The bus system is the most extensive and covers most of the city. The Skyway is a limited system that operates in downtown Jacksonville and has limited hours of operation. You can purchase a JTA pass for unlimited rides on the bus and trolley system.
Biking
Biking is a great way to get around Jacksonville. The city has several bike lanes and paths, and there are several bike rental companies in the area. If you own a bike, you can take advantage of the city’s bike racks on buses and the Skyway.
Walking
If you live in a walkable neighborhood or near your workplace, walking is a great option. However, Jacksonville is a large city, and many areas are not pedestrian-friendly. Be sure to check the walkability of your neighborhood before deciding to live without a car.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Jacksonville. These services are a great option if you need to get somewhere quickly or if you need a ride home after a night out.
Car Rental Services
If you need a car for a short period, car rental services like Enterprise, Hertz, and Avis are available in Jacksonville. These services offer daily, weekly, and monthly rentals.
| Transportation Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Public Transportation | Affordable, extensive coverage | Limited hours of operation, not always reliable |
| Biking | Environmentally friendly, good exercise | Limited bike lanes, not suitable for long distances |
| Walking | Free, good exercise | Limited walkability in some areas, not suitable for long distances |
| Ridesharing | Convenient, fast | Can be expensive, surge pricing |
| Car Rental Services | Flexible, convenient | Can be expensive, requires a valid driver’s license |
Overall, living in Jacksonville without a car is possible, but it requires careful planning and consideration of your transportation options. Be sure to research the transportation options available in your neighborhood before making a decision.
Neighborhoods in Jacksonville for Car-Free Living
If you’re considering living in Jacksonville without a car, you’ll want to choose a neighborhood that is walkable, bike-friendly, and has good public transportation options. Here are some neighborhoods to consider:
Downtown
Downtown Jacksonville is the city’s urban core and has a Walk Score of 74, making it a very walkable neighborhood. The area is home to many businesses, restaurants, and cultural attractions, including the Jacksonville Landing, the Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville, and the Florida Theatre. The Skyway, a free monorail system, connects Downtown with other parts of the city.
Riverside
Riverside is a historic neighborhood located just west of Downtown. It has a Walk Score of 81, making it one of the most walkable neighborhoods in Jacksonville. The area is known for its beautiful homes, tree-lined streets, and vibrant restaurant and bar scene. Riverside also has access to several bus routes that connect the neighborhood with other parts of the city.
Jacksonville Beach
Jacksonville Beach is a coastal neighborhood located about 20 miles east of Downtown. It has a Walk Score of 51, which is lower than some of the other neighborhoods on this list, but it is still possible to live here without a car. The area has plenty of shops, restaurants, and bars, and the beach is just a short walk away. The JTA also operates several bus routes that serve Jacksonville Beach.
Northside
Northside is a residential neighborhood located just north of Downtown. It has a Walk Score of 49, which is lower than some of the other neighborhoods on this list, but it is still possible to live here without a car. The area has several parks and green spaces, and the River City Marketplace, a large outdoor shopping center, is located nearby. The JTA operates several bus routes that serve Northside.
San Marco
San Marco is a historic neighborhood located just south of Downtown. It has a Walk Score of 72, making it a very walkable neighborhood. The area is known for its beautiful homes, tree-lined streets, and boutique shops and restaurants. The JTA operates several bus routes that serve San Marco.
Ponte Vedra
Ponte Vedra is a beachfront neighborhood located about 20 miles southeast of Downtown. It has a Walk Score of 10, which is very low, but it is still possible to live here without a car. The area is known for its beautiful homes, golf courses, and beaches. The JTA operates several bus routes that serve Ponte Vedra.
Atlantic Beach
Atlantic Beach is a coastal neighborhood located about 15 miles east of Downtown. It has a Walk Score of 44, which is lower than some of the other neighborhoods on this list, but it is still possible to live here without a car. The area has plenty of shops, restaurants, and bars, and the beach is just a short walk away. The JTA operates several bus routes that serve Atlantic Beach.
| Neighborhood | Walk Score | Public Transportation | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Downtown | 74 | Skyway, Bus | Urban core, Cultural attractions |
| Riverside | 81 | Bus | Historic homes, Restaurant scene |
| Jacksonville Beach | 51 | Bus | Beach access, Shops and restaurants |
| Northside | 49 | Bus | Parks, River City Marketplace |
| San Marco | 72 | Bus | Historic homes, Boutique shops and restaurants |
| Ponte Vedra | 10 | Bus | Beaches, Golf courses |
| Atlantic Beach | 44 | Bus | Beach access, Shops and restaurants |
Living in Jacksonville without a car is possible if you choose the right neighborhood. Consider the walkability, bike-friendliness, and public transportation options when choosing a place to live.
Cost of Living in Jacksonville without a Car
If you’re considering living in Jacksonville without a car, you’ll need to factor in the cost of living. Here are some of the expenses you’ll need to consider:
Housing Costs
Housing costs in Jacksonville are relatively affordable compared to other cities in the US. According to NerdWallet, the median home value in Jacksonville is $187,000. If you’re renting, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around $1,100 per month. However, if you want to live in a walkable neighborhood, you may need to pay more for housing.
Transportation Costs
Living in Jacksonville without a car means you’ll need to rely on public transportation, biking, or walking to get around. Fortunately, Jacksonville has a decent public transportation system, including buses and a limited skyway. According to Reddit, some neighborhoods like San Marco/Riverside and St. Nicholas/Spring Park are more walkable and bikeable than others.
The cost of a one-way bus fare in Jacksonville is $1.50, and a monthly bus pass costs $50. If you want to use a ride-hailing service like Uber or Lyft, the cost of a ride will depend on the distance and time of day.
Food and Entertainment Costs
The cost of food and entertainment in Jacksonville without a car will depend on where you live and your lifestyle. If you live in a walkable neighborhood, you may have access to more affordable restaurants and entertainment options. However, if you need to travel to other parts of the city for work or social activities, you may need to budget more for food and entertainment.
According to Forbes Advisor, the cost of living in Jacksonville is 29.72% lower than your current city. Housing costs are 41.32% lower, and utilities tend to cost 1.41% lower. However, you’ll need to factor in transportation costs and the cost of living in a walkable neighborhood if you want to live in Jacksonville without a car.
Environmental Impact of Living without a Car in Jacksonville
Living without a car in Jacksonville can have a positive impact on the environment. By reducing your carbon footprint, you can contribute to a healthier and more sustainable city. Here are some ways that living without a car can benefit the environment in Jacksonville.
Air Quality
Jacksonville has struggled with air pollution in the past, and reducing the number of cars on the road can help improve air quality. According to a study by the American Lung Association, Jacksonville ranked as the 25th most polluted city in the United States in 2021. By walking, biking, or taking public transportation instead of driving, you can help reduce the amount of air pollution in the city.
Green Space
Living without a car in Jacksonville can also allow you to enjoy the city’s many parks and green spaces. Jacksonville has over 400 parks and 80,000 acres of green space, making it one of the greenest cities in the United States. By walking or biking to these parks instead of driving, you can reduce your carbon footprint and enjoy the natural beauty of the city.
Environmental Protection
Living without a car in Jacksonville can also contribute to environmental protection efforts. By reducing the number of cars on the road, you can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. Additionally, by walking or biking instead of driving, you can help reduce noise pollution and improve the quality of life for yourself and your community.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Positive impact on the environment | Limited mobility |
| Enjoyment of green spaces | Inconvenience in bad weather |
| Contribution to environmental protection | Longer commute times |
| Reduced noise pollution | Limited access to certain areas |
In conclusion, living without a car in Jacksonville can have a positive impact on the environment. By reducing your carbon footprint, enjoying the city’s green spaces, and contributing to environmental protection efforts, you can help make Jacksonville a more sustainable and livable city.
However, it is important to consider the limitations and inconveniences of living without a car, such as limited mobility, longer commute times, and limited access to certain areas.
Weather in Jacksonville
If you’re considering living in Jacksonville without a car, it’s important to know what kind of weather you can expect. Jacksonville, FL, has a humid subtropical climate, which means that it has hot summers and mild winters. Here are some things to know about the weather in Jacksonville.
Temperature
Jacksonville has a warm climate, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-60s in the winter to the mid-90s in the summer. The warmest months are June through September, with average high temperatures in the 90s. If you’re not used to the heat, you may find the summers uncomfortable.
Humidity
One thing to keep in mind when considering living in Jacksonville without a car is the humidity. Jacksonville is a humid city, with average humidity levels around 70%. The high humidity can make the hot summer temperatures feel even hotter, and can make the winters feel colder than they are.
Rainfall
Jacksonville gets a fair amount of rainfall, with an average of 52 inches per year. The wettest months are June through September, with an average of 6-7 inches of rain per month. However, it’s important to note that rainfall can be unpredictable, and there can be periods of drought as well as periods of heavy rain.
Here is a table summarizing some key weather statistics for Jacksonville:
| Month | Average High | Average Low | Average Rainfall |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 64°F | 42°F | 2.8 inches |
| Feb | 67°F | 45°F | 3.2 inches |
| Mar | 74°F | 51°F | 4.1 inches |
| Apr | 80°F | 57°F | 2.9 inches |
| May | 86°F | 65°F | 3.9 inches |
| Jun | 91°F | 72°F | 6.3 inches |
| Jul | 92°F | 74°F | 6.5 inches |
| Aug | 92°F | 74°F | 6.7 inches |
| Sep | 89°F | 71°F | 5.7 inches |
| Oct | 82°F | 60°F | 3.0 inches |
| Nov | 74°F | 49°F | 2.4 inches |
| Dec | 66°F | 43°F | 2.6 inches |
Overall, the weather in Jacksonville is warm and humid, with plenty of rainfall throughout the year. If you’re considering living in Jacksonville without a car, be prepared for hot summers, high humidity, and occasional heavy rain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What Public Transportation Options Are Available in Jacksonville?
Jacksonville has a public transportation system called the Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA). The JTA operates buses, trolleys, and a Skyway monorail system that runs downtown. The JTA also offers paratransit services for people with disabilities.
Q: Are There Bike-Friendly Areas in Jacksonville?
Jacksonville has several bike-friendly areas, including the Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail Trail, which is a 14.5-mile paved trail that runs through scenic forests and wetlands. The city also has several bike lanes and bike-friendly streets.
Q: What Are the Average Commute Times in Jacksonville?
The average commute time in Jacksonville is around 25 minutes, which is slightly below the national average. However, commute times can vary depending on where you live and work in the city.
Q: What Is the Cost of Living in Jacksonville?
The cost of living in Jacksonville is generally lower than the national average. Housing costs are particularly affordable, with the median home price in Jacksonville being below the national median.
Q: What Are the Best Neighborhoods for Walking in Jacksonville?
Some of the best neighborhoods for walking in Jacksonville include Riverside, Avondale, San Marco, and Downtown. These neighborhoods have plenty of sidewalks, pedestrian-friendly streets, and local amenities within walking distance.
Q: Are There Car-Sharing Services Available in Jacksonville?
Yes, there are car-sharing services available in Jacksonville, including Zipcar and Enterprise CarShare. These services allow you to rent a car by the hour or day, making it easy to get around the city without owning a car.
| Public Transportation | Bike-Friendly Areas | Average Commute Times | Cost of Living | Best Walking Neighborhoods | Car-Sharing Services |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) | Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail Trail | 25 minutes | Generally Lower than National Average | Riverside, Avondale, San Marco, Downtown | Zipcar, Enterprise CarShare |
Q: Are There Mobile Home Parts in Jacksonville?
There are several mobile home parks located in and around Jacksonville, Florida. Some of these parks include Countryside Village, Ortega Village, and Country Roads. These parks offer affordable housing options for individuals and families seeking a more affordable living option.
| Can You Live In Florida Without A Car? | |
|---|---|
| Tampa | Jacksonville |
| Orlando |