How Safe is Jacksonville, Florida in 2023?

If you’re planning to visit or move to Jacksonville, Florida, you may be curious about the city’s safety. Fortunately, Jacksonville is a thriving city with beautiful beaches, delightful weather, and a robust local economy. In this regard, we have compiled everything you need to know about crime rates in Jacksonville, as well as the safest neighborhoods in the city.

Is Jacksonville, Florida Safe?

Jacksonville is a sizeable city that is relatively safe. However, compared to the national average, the city has a higher crime rate. With a population of 954,614 people, Jacksonville’s crime rate is 66% higher than the US average, which is still lower than other major cities. While there are many safe neighborhoods throughout the city’s vast area, residents should take precautions and exercise common sense when traveling, as they have a 1 in 29 chance of becoming a victim of any crime type.

10 Safest Neighborhoods in Jacksonville

1. 1. Eagle Bend
   2. Ortega Forest
   3. East Arlington 
   4. Girvin Pointe 
   5. Jacksonville Beach
   6. Neptune Beach
   7. Mandarin
   8. Black Hammock Island
   9. North Beach
   10. Sandalwood

1. Eagle Bend

Eagle Bend, located in Jacksonville, is known to be the safest neighborhood in the city. It is a suburban community that is perfect for families who are looking for peace and security. With a population of 4,671, Eagle Bend offers a relaxed atmosphere with plenty of greenery and local parks. Despite being a commuter neighborhood, it is still conveniently close to downtown Jacksonville. The crime rate in Eagle Bend is impressively low, with only 205 incidents per 100,000, which is 91% lower than the national average.

2. Ortega Forest

Ortega Forest is a beautiful and prosperous community that exudes the quintessential Southern vibe. The neighborhood boasts of tree-lined streets adorned with oak trees and stately mansions, making it an ideal place for families and professionals alike. Safety is a top priority in Ortega Forest, which has a crime rate that is significantly lower than the state average by 68%. However, one possible drawback is the average home price, which comes in at around $580,634.

3. East Arlington 

If you’re seeking a tranquil suburban atmosphere in proximity to downtown, East Arlington is an ideal location. This neighborhood is not only peaceful, but it’s also one of the safest in Jacksonville. The town is encompassed by wetlands, which provide fantastic fishing opportunities. In addition, East Arlington offers an array of recreational activities, such as the Regency Square Mall and the Jacksonville Arboretum and Gardens. Moreover, East Arlington boasts a crime rate that is 53% lower than the national average, making it an incredibly secure place to reside.

4. Girvin Pointe 

Girvin Pointe, situated in the northern part of Jacksonville, is an ideal residential community for both families and commuters. Safety is a top priority in Girvin Pointe, as the crime rate is 52% below the national average. The neighborhood offers various recreational activities, including water sports and parks, making it an excellent place to live. The current median home price in this community is $430,632.

5. Jacksonville Beach

Jacksonville Beach is a highly sought-after neighborhood in Jacksonville, boasting of its pristine beaches and a fishing pier that extends into the ocean. This waterfront neighborhood attracts a lot of tourists and is considered one of the safest neighborhoods in the city. With a population of approximately 19,692, Jacksonville Beach has a total crime rate of 1,428 per 100,000, which is 39% lower than the US average. A popular landmark in this neighborhood is the historic Casa Marina Hotel, which has been attracting tourists for decades. The current median home price in Jacksonville Beach is $589,006.

6. Neptune Beach 

Neptune Beach, situated in Jacksonville, is renowned for being one of the safest neighborhoods in the area. It’s a serene community with breathtaking ocean views and picturesque palm tree-lined streets. The population of Neptune Beach is 7,217, and the overall crime rate is 1,448 per 100,000, which is 38% lower than the national average. Visitors and residents of this area can indulge in a diverse range of highly-rated seafood and prohibition-era bars. Additionally, the median price of a home in Neptune Beach is $703,801.

7. Mandarin 

Nestled in southern Jacksonville, Mandarin boasts breathtaking tropical scenery, dotted with ancient oak trees swathed in Spanish moss, marinas, and parks. Nature enthusiasts and bicyclists can indulge in the vast green space that the town has to offer, making it an ideal destination for those who seek tranquility amidst nature’s bounty. At present, the median price of a home in Mandarin stands at $496,171.

8. Black Hammock Island

Black Hammock Island, surrounded by seven miles of lush marshlands and trails, boasts the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve, a national park sprawling over 46,000 acres and featuring lush swamps and wetlands. With a total crime rate of 1,591 per 100,000 people, the town is 26% safer than the Florida average. Aside from being a perfect getaway, Black Hammock Island offers easy access to downtown Jacksonville, just a short drive away.

9. North Beach

With its sunny beachside community, North Beach is not only a desirable place to live but also one of the safest in Jacksonville. Its population of 12,949 enjoys a low violent crime rate and a clean and well-maintained community. North Beach boasts excellent beach access and is conveniently located close to downtown Jacksonville. The total crime rate of North Beach is 20% lower than the Florida average, at 1,722 per 100,000 people. Even with its prime location, North Beach remains relatively affordable with a median home price of $325,193.

10. Sandalwood

Sandalwood, a tranquil suburban community, is conveniently located just a short drive away from Jacksonville and the beautiful beaches surrounding it. In addition to its prime location, Sandalwood boasts of excellent amenities, parks, and a highly-rated school system. The majority of homes in Sandalwood are either single detached or condos, with a median price of $344,475. Living in Sandalwood offers a safe and comfortable lifestyle that is truly worth experiencing.

Also Read:

• List of the Top 9 Safest Places to Live in Long Island (2023)
• List of Top 10 Safest Cities in South Carolina with the Lowest Crime Rates in 2023
• List Of Top10 Safest Cities in Alabama (2023)