Everything You Need to Know to Accurately Compare These Two Florida Cities

Have you made the decision to become a Floridian but aren’t sure which city is the right one for you? Two of the most popular locations for individuals to move to in Florida are Tampa and Jacksonville. So, how do you make the decision: Tampa or Jacksonville? Our guide can help you make your choice.

Depending on your personal preferences and your current circumstances, you may have certain needs and desires that will be met by one city or the other. It is important to remember that you are moving your entire life to this new location, so it is essential that you make the best choice between the two.

There are many cities in Florida, so it can be difficult to determine which option is the best for your individual needs and priorities. So, how do you determine which city is the one for you to call your new home?

Let us look at two of the most popular cities in Florida – Tampa and Jacksonville – so that you can see which is the right option for you.

Is Tampa or Jacksonville Less Expensive?

One of the most important factors to consider when moving to a new city is the cost of living in that location. Overall, Florida is going to have a higher cost of living than many other areas of the United States, but a benefit of living in Florida is the lack of personal income tax. So, within the state of Florida, is Tampa or Jacksonville less expensive for its residents?

• Tampa and Jacksonville both share 7.5% sales tax
• Jacksonville is slightly more affordable than Tampa (93.5 for Jacksonville, 100.1 for Tampa on a 100 scale)
• Housing costs are slightly lower in Jacksonville than Tampa
• Utility expenses are below the national average in Tampa while Jacksonville’s are slightly above

Winner: Jacksonville, but only slightly

How do Tampa and Jacksonville compare in size and population?

Population density and city size can make a big difference in an individual’s happiness in the location. Whether you want the hustle and bustle of the big city or the peace and tranquility of a small town, that will determine where you will be the happiest with your family. 

In Florida, Tampa and Jacksonville are quite different when it comes to size and population. Here’s an interesting comparison:

• Tampa has a population of 407,104 throughout a land area of 114 square miles
• Jacksonville’s population is 938,717 across 747.5 square miles

There are metropolitan areas and beach-side towns in both cities, and you are close to other major cities living in either Tampa or Jacksonville. If you want to live closer to Georgia, Jacksonville is your best option while Tampa will put you closer to the southwestern coastal region. 

Winner: Depends on your preference!

Where can you find better weather, Tampa or Jacksonville?

Anyone who has chosen to migrate to Florida will know that the weather is one of the best factors about living there. No matter where you live in the state, you will find great weather for most of the year. Deciding to live in either Tampa or Jacksonville is simply a matter of minute differences when it comes to weather.

Both cities experience subtropical climates with warm and pleasant weather all year round. You can always count on being able to enjoy outdoor recreational activities when you live in the Sunshine State. There are a few minor differences between Tampa and Jacksonville that might influence your decision:

• Tampa has a daily average high in the warmer months of 86 while Jacksonville’s is 85.
• Cold months can get to a low of 46 in Jacksonville and 52 in Tampa.
• Tampa experiences slightly more oppressive and consistent humidity during the summer months than Jacksonville.
• Jacksonville tends to have more distinct seasonal weather changes than Tampa because of its northern location

Given this information, you may want more consistent temperatures to be able to plan your many outdoor activities in Tampa.

Winner: Tampa

What is Tampa famous for?

If you are considering moving to Tampa, there are many great things you can do and see when you live there. First, you are in close proximity to many great theme parks, including Busch Gardens, Disney World, and Universal Studios. Be sure to drive over the ocean on the Sunshine Skyway and explore the Tampa Riverwalk downtown.

Another amazing aspect of Tampa is the area of the city known as Ybor City (a national historic landmark district) where you can find a vibrant arts and culture scene. You can also explore the Florida Aquarium (it’s huge so take a full day!) as well as many lush parks, the Manatee Viewing Center, contemporary museums, great restaurants, and more. You should certainly try the Cuban sandwich while in Tampa because it was invented there!

What is Jacksonville famous for?

When you decide to live in Jacksonville, or “Jax,” you will find yourself in the middle of a great mix of culture, music, coastline, hiking trails, and great architecture. There are more than 850 square miles of beaches and canals to explore, and you can find lots of activities on the St. John’s River. 

In Jacksonville alone, there are 3 national parks: Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve, Kingsley Plantation, and Castillo de San Marcos National Monument. For an immersion in culture and history, these locations are not to be missed. There are also 46,000 acres of state parks for kayaking, canoeing, camping, hiking, wildlife viewing, and more.

For indoor activities, be sure to check out the Cummer Museum of Arts and Gardens, the Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville, and the Museum of Science and History.

Your Home Sold Guaranteed Realty of Greater Florida Can Find a Great Home for You in Tampa

As you can see, living in either Tampa or Jacksonville is sure to provide you with plenty of fun and great memories for you and your family. It is a tough decision to make between the two, and our team at Your Home Sold Guaranteed Realty of Greater Florida can help to ensure you make the right choice. We can show you great homes in both locations, but you will be the one to ultimately decide which will be your new home.

Are you ready to buy a home? Give us a call at 239-880-3563. We will provide you with the resources, information, and tools you need to be fully informed to make the best decisions for you and your family. 

Our team is the best real estate team in the area, and we can’t wait to show you why. Call now or fill out the form below with the requested information. We look forward to hearing from you and getting started on the house hunt for you!