One of the best things about living in Jacksonville is the balance between affordability and quality it offers its residents. Combine that with the city’s rich history, proximity to the beach, and riverside views and it’s a win all-around! With so much to offer, it’s hard to make a definitive list of the absolute best neighborhoods in Jacksonville. So, we focused this list on our favorite up-and-coming Jacksonville neighborhoods.
Up-and-Coming Jacksonville Neighborhoods We Love
Arlington
Arlington currently holds the spot as Jacksonville’s most rapidly growing neighborhood. It’s located just east of downtown Jacksonville and has a rich history that dates to the 16th century when the French found Fort Caroline. As a result, Arlington’s streets are lined with older homes and many historical places to explore. These include Fort Caroline, Norman Silent Film Studios, Tree Hill Nature Preserve, and Strawberry Hills. The neighborhood is also home to the Jacksonville Arboretum and Gardens.
Riverview
Riverview is in northern Jacksonville between the Trout and Ribault Rivers. It’s an up-and-coming neighborhood that’s known for its rolling hills and diversity. In fact, it has more residents with Jamaican and Haitian ancestry than nearly any neighborhood in the United States. Its streets are lined with older, bungalow-style homes and it has a small-town feel, even though it’s only about a 15 to 30-minute drive into the heart of Jacksonville. Riverview is also home to Riverview Park located along the Trout River. The spacious park is considered one of the most secluded public green spaces in the city.
Brentwood
Brentwood is another north Jacksonville neighborhood that’s known for its many historically significant residential and commercial buildings. The streets are lined with trees and bungalows that give it a suburban feel. Main Street connects the neighborhood the rest of the city. It’s lined with many small, local businesses. Brentwood Park is just under 17-acres and includes a playground and Parthenon-style bandstand.
Mandarin
Mandarin is in the southernmost part of Jacksonville and is named after the mandarin orange. It’s located along the St. Johns River and was once an important shipping port for citrus fruits. Mandarin known for its history, large oak trees, and natural beauty. In fact, Harry Beecher Stowe once described it as a “tropical paradise.” The Mandarin Museum and Walter Jones Historical Park is a 10-acre riverfront site that’s home to an 1876 farm complex with picnic tables and a citrus grove. It’s a great spot to spend a Saturday afternoon. Mandarin offers the convenience of being in the city with a homier, suburban feel.
Highlands
Highlands is another north Jacksonville neighborhood known for its diversity. In fact, Spanish and Italian are the second most spoken languages in the neighborhood! It’s a walkable neighborhood with great public schools. Highlands is home to Ray Green Park and Menlo Park. It’s also close to the River City Marketplace and Pecan Park Flea Market.
Want to live in or near Jacksonville’s best areas? Living in these up-and-coming neighborhoods doesn’t have to break the bank. PadSplit is one of the most affordable ways to rent a room in Jacksonville. You’ll find great rooms at great prices without the commitment of a long-term lease or hefty security deposit. Browse our available rooms for rent in Jacksonville.
