Is Jacksonville, Florida Safe?
Jacksonville is relatively safe for a large city. However, Jacksonville has a crime rate that is higher than the national average. The city of Jacksonville is home to 954,614 people and has a crime rate that is 66% higher than the US average, which is somewhat lower than other major cities. Residents have a 1 in 29 chance of becoming the victim of any type of crime. Jacksonville encompasses a large area, and of course, there are many safe neighborhoods. As with any large city, residents should exercise caution and use common sense when traveling.
10 Safest Neighborhoods in Jacksonville
- Eagle Bend
- Ortega Forest
- East Arlington
- Girvin Pointe
- Jacksonville Beach
- Neptune Beach
- Mandarin
- Black Hammock Island
- North Beach
- Sandalwood
1. Eagle Bend
The safest neighborhood in Jacksonville is Eagle Bend. This safe and relaxed suburban community has a population of 4,671 and is the perfect place for families. Eagle Bend is a commuter neighborhood that offers plenty of greenery and local parks while still being close to downtown Jacksonville. The total crime rate in Eagles Bend is 205 per 100,000, which is 91% lower than the national average.
2. Ortega Forest
Ortega Forest is a safe and affluent neighborhood that has plenty of old Southern charm. This charming neighborhood has shady streets lined with oak trees and southern-style mansions, making it perfect for families and commuters. Ortega Forest is one of the safest places in Florida, with a crime rate that is 68% below the state average. The only downside to Ortega Forest is the home price, which averages around $580,634.
3. East Arlington
East Arlington is also one of the safest neighborhoods in Jacksonville. For those looking for a quiet suburban experience near downtown, East Arlington is the perfect place. Much of the town is surrounded by wetlands which make for excellent fishing spots. East Arlington has plenty of recreational options, including the Regency Square Mall and the Jacksonville Arboretum and Gardens. With a total crime rate that is 53% lower than the national average, crime is almost unheard of in East Arlington.
4. Girvin Pointe
Located in northern Jacksonville, Girvin Pointe is a safe residential community that is perfect for families and commuters. Girvin Pointe is an incredibly safe neighborhood with a crime rate that is 52% below the national average. The neighborhood has plenty of recreational activities, such as nearby water sports and parks. The median home price in Girvin Pointe currently stands at $430,632.
5. Jacksonville Beach
Another one of the safest neighborhoods in Jacksonville is Jacksonville Beach. This waterfront neighborhood is a popular tourist destination with bright, sunny beaches and a fishing pier that extends into the ocean. With a population of around 19,692, Jacksonville Beach has a total crime rate of 1,428 per 100,000 which is 39% lower than the US average. One of Jacksonville Beach’s top destinations of the Casa Marina Hotel, which has been a top destination for decades. The current median home price in Jacksonville Beach currently stands at $589,006.
6. Neptune Beach
Neptune Beach is also one of the safest neighborhoods in Jacksonville. Neptune Beach places to live in Jacksonville. is a laid-back community with great ocean views and palm tree-lined streets. With a population of 7,217, the total crime rate of Neptune Beach is 1,448 per 100,000, which is 38% lower than the US average. Residents and visitors enjoy a wide variety of highly-rated seafood and prohibition-era bars. The median home price in Neptune Beach is $703,801.
7. Mandarin
Mandarin is located in southern Jacksonville near the St. Johns River and Orange Park. Mandarin is known for its tropical views, ancient oak trees draped with Spanish moss, marinas, and parks. Mandarin is the perfect spot for nature enthusiasts and bicyclists who can take advantage of the amount of green space the town has to offer. The median home price in Mandarin is currently $496,171.
8. Black Hammock Island
Black Hammock Island is a seven-mile island surrounded by lush marshlands and trails. Black Hammock Island is home to the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve, which is a 46,000-acre national park filled with lush swamps and wetlands. The town’s total crime rate is 1,591 per 100,000 people, which is 26% lower than the Florida average. Not only is Black Hammock Island a great getaway, but it’s also still a short drive to downtown Jacksonville.
9. North Beach
North Beach is a sunny beachside community that is also one of the safest places to live in Jacksonville. North Beach has a population of around 12,949 and a very low violent crime rate. North Beach is a clean, well-maintained community with great beach access and proximity to downtown Jacksonville. The total crime rate of North Beach is 1,722 per 100,000 people, which is 20% lower than the Florida average. Despite North Beach’s prime location, the area is still relatively affordable, with a median home price of $325,193.
10. Sandalwood
Sandalwood is a safe and peaceful suburban community that benefits from being a short drive from Jacksonville and the surrounding beaches. Sandalwood has fantastic amenities, parks, and a well-ranked school system. The median home price in Sandalwood is currently $344,475, with most homes being single detached or condos.