Wondering about moving to Jacksonville, Florida, but held back by stories of high crime rates, frequent violence, and comparisons to "rough neighborhoods"? Jacksonville's reputation as Florida's former "Murder Capital" definitely sparks concern, especially if you're relocating with family or prioritizing safety.
So, what's the reality behind "is Jacksonville Florida safe"? In this guide, we'll unpack the layered truth — from crime stats and neighborhood-by-neighborhood safety grades (like Deerwood vs. Moncrief Park) to honest pros/cons of living here (think beaches and affordability vs. property crime risks). We'll also share practical, local-backed security tips to help you feel confident whether you're visiting, renting, or putting down roots. Ready to see past the headlines? Keep reading.
Is Jacksonville Florida Safe: Crime Situation
"Is Jacksonville Florida a safe place to live?" We'll dig into two critical layers: the city's overall crime pulse (what trends actually say) and its neighborhood-by-neighborhood crime rates (where "safe" shifts block by block). Stats don't lie, but they also don't tell the full story alone—so let's crunch the numbers and context together.
Overview of Crime Condition
Let's look at the numbers head-on: Jacksonville's crime rate index sits at just 1 out of 100—meaning statistically, it's safer than only 1% of U.S. cities. Yeah, that sounds alarming, but here's critical context: most reported offenses here are property crimes, not violent attacks. Think car break-ins and package thefts rather than physical threats—a pattern actually common in many large metro areas like Tampa or Memphis with similar population density.
Crime Rate in Jacksonville Florida
Based on CrimeGrade's analysis, Jacksonville's overall crime situation presents a mixed but challenging picture:
- Overall Crime Rate: Jacksonville scores just 1 out of 100 on the safety index, meaning it ranks safer than only 1% of U.S. cities—placing it in the lowest percentile nationally.
- Violent Crime: While improving (with murders dropping sharply to 76 in 2024 and ~31 in H1 2025), violent crime remains high at "12.43 incidents per 1,000 residents". Your chance of being a victim here is 1 in 80—far worse than Florida's average (1 in 386).
- Property Crime: This dominates Jacksonville's offenses, occurring at 51.56 per 1,000 residents (1 in 19 chance). Car break-ins and package thefts are especially pervasive, with motor vehicle theft rates among the nation's highest.
Context: Though trends are improving, the data confirms Jacksonville's crime burden still heavily outpaces most U.S. cities—largely driven by property offenses rather than violence.
Is Jacksonville Florida Good Place to Live?
So, is Jacksonville Florida safe enough to call home—or does the crime rate overshadow its appeal? It's a trade-off. We won't dismiss your safety concerns, but let's weigh the real pros against the cons—from beach access, low-cost living to property theft risks.
Pros of Living in Jacksonville
- Living costs are refreshingly low here
Jacksonville's median home price sits at "$173,200" — significantly below Florida's statewide average and the U.S. median of $217,500, so you'll stretch your budget much further for housing compared to similar-sized metros like Austin or Nashville.
| City | Cost of Living |
|---|---|
| Jacksonville, FL | 93.5 |
| San Jose, CA | 214.5 |
| Austin, TX | 119.3 |
| San Francisco, CA | 269.3 |
| Dallas, TX | 101.6 |
Source: Data is compared by BestPlaces.net
- You'll soak up sunshine year-round
With summer highs averaging 90°F (32°C) and mild winters rarely dipping below freezing, Jacksonville delivers 234 sunny days annually. However, humidity can get swampy in July and August, so pack light clothes and AC patience.
- Nature and culture collide beautifully
You get 22 miles of beaches (like lively Jacksonville Beach and artsy Atlantic Beach) plus "80,000+ acres of parks", while museums like the Cummer's riverside gardens or MOCA's avant-garde exhibits mean you're never bored indoors.
Cons of Living in Jacksonville
- Crime rates remain stubbornly high in pockets
While improving, Jacksonville's overall safety still lags—you've got a 1 in 27 chance of becoming a victim in high-risk northern zones like Brentwood, and roughly 60% of neighborhoods statistically underperform national safety averages according to CrimeGrade.org's mapping.
- Incomes trend lower than national medians
According to Niche.com survey, the typical household here earns $54,701 yearly. That's 13% below the U.S. average of $62,843, partly because tourism/service jobs dominate over high-paying tech or finance roles, making budget stretches tighter than in peer cities.
- Traffic bottlenecks plague daily commutes
Weekday rush hours clog key arteries (thanks to 1960s-era road planning), and even weekends snarl near beaches.
Best Places to Live in Jacksonville Florida
After weighing those pros and cons, is Jacksonville Florida a safe place to live for you? Honestly, that answer hinges entirely on where you plant roots. Let's cut through the noise and spotlight five neighborhoods where safety, charm, and quality of life actually align.
Deerwood
Deerwood consistently ranks as Jacksonville's safest neighborhood—with a remarkably low crime rate hovering around 13-14 incidents per 1,000 residents (well below national averages). You'll notice why immediately: gated communities, private security patrols, and visible police presence create tangible peace of mind. Add top-rated schools and serene golf-course vistas, and it's easy to see why families prioritize living here.
Ortega Forest
Ortega Forest secures its spot as Jacksonville's second-safest enclave, with crime rates hovering around 17-18 incidents per 1,000 residents—driven largely by sporadic burglaries and car break-ins rather than violent acts. You'll rarely hear of assaults or robberies here. Instead, the buzz revolves around historic homes under moss-draped oaks and tight-knit neighborhood watches that keep risks low. It's where old-money charm meets modern peace of mind.
Avondale
Avondale ranks #3 for safety in Jacksonville—but its crime rate ("18-20 per 1,000 residents") reflects a trade-off: vibrant bars and nightlife bring occasional drunken scuffles and drug-related issues, while residents stay alert for car break-ins and petty theft. Still, its historic bungalows, walkable streets, and tight community watch keep it leagues safer than truly high-risk zones.
Sandalwood
Sandalwood's high-density community (roughly 21,800 residents) thrives with a practical, suburban vibe—ranked among Niche.com's "Best Places to Buy a House" in Jax for its affordability and highly walkable streets. Expect no frills, but solid schools and convenience make it a magnet for young families.
Riverside
Riverside carries a "medium" crime risk—its rate of 30-32 incidents per 1,000 residents skews higher than other recommended areas, driven largely by opportunistic property crimes like car break-ins near bustling cafés. Yet community vigilance and central location keep it popular with artists and young professionals.
Unsafe Areas to Avoid Living in Jacksonville Florida
Hogan's Creek, College Gardens, New Town, Moncrief Park, and Lackawanna consistently show violent crime rates hovering around 400-500 incidents per 100k people. While murders specifically aren't frequently reported here (a rare bright spot), these neighborhoods grapple with disproportionate assaults, robberies, and property crimes like car break-ins.
So is Jacksonville Florida a safe place to live? It absolutely can be—if you avoid these pockets. We'd strongly caution against settling in these zones, especially with families, as the hyperlocal risks outweigh Jacksonville's broader charms.
How to Keep Personal Security in Jacksonville Florida
Whether you already live in Jacksonville, are planning to move here, or just visiting, it's always wise to be prepared. Safety isn't about paranoia. It's about awareness. Here are four simple tips to help you protect yourself and enjoy the city with peace of mind.
Install Smart Secure System for Your Home
If you're living in Jacksonville, the fear of a break-in isn't just paranoia. It's a real concern given those property crime stats. For peace of mind whether you're at work, on vacation, or just asleep, eufy LocalSecure™ System delivers extra protection. Its advanced AI detection detect threats instantly and trigger audible alarms.
- Advanced BionicMind™ AI Detection: BionicMind™ detects, recognizes, determines, acts, and learns. It knows who's at the door, knows if they can be trusted, and acts accordingly, all with virtually no errors at up to 99.9% accuracy.
- Centralized Local Security with HomeBase S380: Use HomeBase S380 to link eufy Security devices and empower the entire ecosystem with BionicMind™ AI recognition. Advanced encryption and expandable local storage, up to 16 TB, keep data safe and costs down.
- Local Storage: eufy LocalSecure™ System operates locally at every possible stage, giving you control of your data and eliminating monthly fees.
- Long-Lasting Power: Advanced technology, efficient design, and intelligent processing enable extremely long-lasting battery life, taken even further with Forever Power solar charging.
Stay Alert All the Time
Always stay hyper-aware when walking in Jacksonville—scan your surroundings, avoid distractions like phones, and trust your gut if someone feels "off." If you sense trouble, pivot toward crowded shops, gas stations, or well-lit areas.
Keep Eyes on Your Belongings
Never let your guard down with belongings. And keep phones/wallets hidden and always wear backpacks in front of crowded streets or transit.
Stay at Crowded Places at Night
Skip solo walks after dark. If you must go out, stick to busy streets like Riverside Ave or beachfront boardwalks where crowds linger. Dark alleys and empty parking lots? That's where trouble thrives, so reroute toward lights and voices.
Conclusion
Is Jacksonville Florida safe? The raw truth: it's a city of extremes. We won't lie—crime rates here are high nationally, with property theft and sketchy pockets like Moncrief demanding vigilance. But neighborhoods like Deerwood and Ortega Forest prove safety is achievable street-by-street. Your peace of mind hinges on choosing the right zone, layering smart security, and trusting your street smarts.
FAQs about Jacksonville Florida Safety
Is Downtown Jacksonville, Florida Safe for Tourists?
Downtown Jacksonville is generally safe for tourists during daytime—explore museums, parks, and riverwalks confidently. After dark, stick to well-lit, busy zones like the Southbank Riverwalk or Bay Street dining areas, where crowds deter trouble. Avoid dim side streets near Hogan's Creek or vacant lots (property crimes, like car break-ins spike there.)
Which Part of Jacksonville is Safest?
Deerwood and Ortega Forest are widely regarded as the safest parts of Jacksonville. These neighborhoods offer low crime rates, well-maintained streets, active community watch programs, and a peaceful living environment. Residents appreciate their strong sense of community, making them ideal for families, retirees, and anyone seeking security.
Which Areas Should Be Avoided in Jacksonville?
Areas like parts of Northwest Jacksonville, Moncrief, and sections near the Westside are often noted for higher crime rates. While they have their own communities, visitors and newcomers are generally advised to be cautious or avoid them, especially at night. Staying in safer, well-lit, and busier neighborhoods is recommended.
