We Asked 6 Real Estate Agents to Pick the Best Place to Live in Florida—They All Picked This City With its abundant sunshine, thousands of miles of coastline, and communities blending coastal charm with urban amenities, Florida welcomed the most out-of-state newcomers in 2024, according to U.S. Census data. Yet finding a place that balances affordability, safety, employment, and outdoor access remains a challenge in a state ranging from the most expensive ZIP code to hidden affordable gems. To identify the best place to live in Florida, six real estate agents with decades of experience were consulted, and they all independently selected the Jacksonville area along the state’s northern Atlantic coastline as the top choice. Shelby Holmes of Watson Realty Corp./Luxury Portfolio International highlighted Jacksonville’s appeal, noting its large land mass often leads to underestimation. “When you break down the individual areas and lifestyles within the market, there’s tremendous diversity and opportunity here,” she said. The city’s unemployment rate remains below five percent, and its median home value of less than $287,000 makes it attractive to young professionals and retirees seeking Florida’s laid-back coastal lifestyle without exorbitant costs. Jacksonville’s population has grown by over 20 percent since 2010, reaching more than one million residents. A WalletHub study ranked it third-best in the U.S. for starting a small business, citing its active startup environment and low corporate taxes. Sharon Alters of One Sotheby’s International Realty emphasized the city’s diversified economy, which includes finance, military, education, and shipping, reducing reliance on second-home buyers or tourism. “Jacksonville is the most affordable large city in Florida,” she added.#jacksonville #ponte_vedra_beach #shelby_holmes #watson_realty_corp #one_sothbys_international_realty
