Looking for the Perfect Place? Top Neighborhoods to Rent Near major Employers in Jacksonville

I’m Allaire, your ApartmentHomeLiving.com Local Expert for Jacksonville, Florida. After living in the River City for over 8 years, I’ve seen this town transform from a sleepy Southern port into one of the Southeast’s most dynamic job markets. You’ll find the best balance of livability and affordability based on local expertise, and choosing the right neighborhood near your employer can completely change your experience.

Well, my experience is that Jacksonville is huge. Originally from Miami, I'm used to large areas and fully understand that in large cities, where you live matters. I’ve also helped friends move from Miami who were shocked to discover that a commute that used to be 45 minutes could be cut to 15 by picking the right spot. When you add in where you’ll be grabbing lunch, shopping, and unwinding after work, location becomes everything.

A friend who works downtown can't stop talking about her lunch routine, where she has a short walk to Chart House on the Southbank for their incredible seafood and stunning river views. That’s the kind of quality-of-life upgrade I’m talking about when you’re deciding the best neighborhood to live in.

Current Rental Pricing for Apartments in Jacksonville

Current Rental Pricing for Homes for Rent in Jacksonville

Amazon - Northeast Florida’s Largest Private Employer

Amazon has multiple fulfillment and delivery stations. It’s the largest nongovernmental employer in the region with massive distribution centers, which helped turn North Jacksonville into a logistics hub. Since they’ve come to the area, this quiet, industrial zone is booming. With so many job opportunities growing across their operations in the warehouse, management, and tech roles, finding a safe space to call home is key.

Arlington – The Established Favorite

I have a few relatives living in Arlington for over three years, and they swear it’s the perfect balance of suburban comfort and urban convenience. If you love mid-century modern architecture and oak-lined streets, then Arlington is one of the best places in Jacksonville to live. This neighborhood is a perfect match between Amazon’s facilities and downtown, creating the perfect space for people wanting flexibility.

I love Arlington because of its walkability. You’ve got everything from the University Boulevard corridor with solid shopping and dining options, to the quieter residential streets lined with gorgeous, mid-century homes. The apartments near Amazon offer everything from affordable garden-style complexes to upscale waterfront communities. The complexes I’ve toured are impressive, with great amenities, including pools, fitness centers, and dog parks, which all seem to be standard.

For those working the morning shift at Amazon or nearby employers, the breakfast burritos at Maple Street Biscuit Company can be a great way to start the day. 

Mandarin – A Family-Forward Option

This established southside neighborhood is named for the mandarin oranges shipped from Jacksonville’s riverport in the 1800s. Known for its great schools and large oak trees dripping in Spanish moss (I love this foliage), this area is a little further from Amazon’s facilities. The community is manageable, the quality of life is great, and it holds a strong family-friendly residential reputation.

The apartments in Mandarin near Amazon are newer and more spacious, which is perfect for families or those wanting extra room. This neighborhood offers larger living spaces and family amenities that I've found appeal to Amazon employees with families. The waterfront dining here is great as well. Julington Creek Fish Camp is an amazing waterfront spot where Amazon employees love to unwind on weekends. You can even arrive by boat! The fresh seafood and scenic creek views make it a perfect spot after a long week.

Baptist Health – Healthcare Excellence Across the City

After Amazon, Baptist Health is second in line, with 12,400 jobs, with six hospitals and additional facilities throughout Florida. As someone who knows several Baptist Health employees, I can say that proximity to your assigned facility makes all the difference in work-life balance. Healthcare schedules can be intense, so being able to get home quickly or grab a decent meal nearby is important.

San Marco – Historic Charm Meets Medical Convenience

Just south of downtown Jacksonville, you’ll find San Marco, which is modeled after the Piazza San Marco in Venice, Italy. The historic square and tree-lined streets in this neighborhood create a unique, European-inspired atmosphere that makes you feel as if you're someplace else. For Baptist Health employees, San Marco has the perfect blend of culture and convenience.

San Marco apartments near Baptist Health have easy access to multiple hospital campuses, and the neighborhood has an amazing charm that makes coming home feel special. There are diverse rental options, ranging from historic apartments with character to modern complexes with updated amenities. The dining scene has good local options, too, with several cafes and restaurants that work well for different shifts and schedules that medical professionals usually have to manage.

Riverside – The Creative Professional’s Dream

Listed in the National Registry of Historic Places, Riverside is one of Jacksonville’s oldest and coolest neighborhoods. My experience is that healthcare professionals love this area because it offers such a rich after-work lifestyle. When you’re dealing with the stress of medical work, having places like the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens or the Saturday Riverside Arts Market becomes a priority for mental health.

The riverside apartments near Baptist Health are really popular with nurses and medical professionals who appreciate the walkable neighborhood and vibrant arts scene. It’s a peaceful environment with tree-lined streets and historic homes. Bold Bean Coffee Roasters is a popular spot in the area for medical professionals before, during, and after their shifts, while the Five Points area also has lots of dining options.

Avondale – Upscale Urban Living

With its hip population and trendy atmosphere, Avondale is one of the best neighborhoods in Jacksonville and is known for its million-dollar colonial revival riverfront mansions and upscale apartment buildings. There’s a sophisticated vibe while still being welcoming and community-oriented.

The apartments in Avondale near Baptist Health attract medical professionals who want luxury amenities and don’t mind paying premium rent for the lifestyle. People in this neighborhood usually bike or walk to work at one of the facilities, with the Shoppes of Historic Avondale right there for everything you need.

Mayo Clinic – World-Class Medicine in Northeast Florida

The clinical practice, education, and healthcare research campus is on San Pablo Road. With about 6,400 employees, the Mayo Clinic continues to be a major draw for medical professionals all over the world. The Southside campus has transformed this area into a medical district, with dining and shopping options growing to match the demand.

Southside – Modern Living at Its Best

The Southside near Mayo Clinic is where modern Jacksonville really shines. There are many apartment complexes in this area, and the amenities include rooftop pools, state-of-the-art fitness centers, and concierge services. What makes it truly special is the proximity to St. Johns Town Center.

St. Johns Town Center has become incredibly convenient for Mayo Clinic employees. This destination has over 175 stores like Nordstrom, Apple, and Dillard’s, along with restaurants like The Cheesecake Factory, PF Chang’s, The Capital Grille, and True Food Kitchen. All of these options are within walking distance of many of the apartment complexes in the area. From affordable garden-style complexes to luxury high-rises with resort-style amenities, there are many options based on budget and lifestyle preferences.

San Jose – The Best-Kept Secret

San Jose Boulevard runs right past Mayo Clinic, making it very convenient for employees. While this area doesn’t get as much attention as some neighborhoods, you’ll find affordable rent with an easy commute to one of the world’s most prestigious medical institutions.

Apartments in this area are more affordable than Southside options but still offer modern amenities and quick access to the clinic. There have been significant developments in recent years, with new shopping centers and restaurants catering to the growing professional population.

Mandarin – Suburban Serenity for Medical Families

This neighborhood was named for the Mandarin orange in 1830 and used to be described as “a tropic paradise” by Harriet Beecher Stowe. For Mayo Clinic families, Mandarin offers the perfect escape from the intensity of medical careers.

The apartments near the facility provide larger living spaces and family-friendly amenities that medical professionals with children appreciate. Alongside the great schools and quiet neighborhoods, they are all a great balance to demanding careers.

Bank of America – Financial Services Hub

The banking and financial services company has multiple branches and an operations center. It employs over 7,000 people all over Jacksonville. With so many locations, the neighborhood choices are endless.

Downtown Jacksonville – Urban Professional Paradise

For Bank of America employees working in the financial district, living downtown means walking to work and being in the heart of the Jacksonville business scene. The apartments in downtown near Bank of America provide the ultimate urban lifestyle. The views of the St. Johns River are stunning from every view, and people easily walk to work, grab lunch at a variety of restaurants, and never worry about parking.

Southbank – River Views and Financial District Access

The Southbank area is great for employees who want to be close to downtown but want a more residential feel to their surroundings. The accessibility to downtown from the bridges, or even the water taxi service, when it’s operational.

The apartments in this area have river views and are the perfect choice for professionals who want downtown convenience without living in the urban part of the city. Chart House is a popular spot for eating, with amazing views of the river and its architectural design, which was voted one of the top 100 buildings in Florida.

San Marco – Historic Elegance for Finance Professionals

San Marco’s proximity to downtown makes it convenient for Bank of America employees who want a more neighborhood feel. It’s a direct contrast to the corporate world, with tree-lined streets and historic charm. With a walkable historic architectural backdrop, people walk along the Riverwalk during lunch, after work, or enjoy weekend activities in the historic square area.

Florida Blue – Healthcare Insurance Leader

This health insurance provider has multiple offices and a campus in South Jacksonville. With over 5,000 employees, this location is right in the heart of a dynamic growth area, with access to entertainment, shopping, and dining.

Southside – Corporate Campus Convenience

This area is popular with employees of this location. There are newer apartment complexes and lots of amenities, especially for working professionals who work from home or have flexible schedules.

St. Johns Town Center is right in the backyard of multiple apartments, with affordable garden-style options, as well as luxury high-rises. I’ve found that it’s something for every budget and lifestyle preference in this area.

The Mandarin and San Jose neighborhoods are also in this area and have excellent proximity to Florida Blue’s facilities.

Making the Right Decision

After many years in Jacksonville, my advice is to visit each neighborhood at different times of the day, factor in your commute during rush hour, and consider what matters most to your lifestyle. I’ve featured some of Jacksonville’s most desired areas, but you have to think about your daily routine.

The apartments I’ve featured near these major employers offer something for everyone, including urban luxury to suburban tranquility. The beauty of this city is how each neighborhood has its own personality and amenities. Whether you’re drawn to the waterfront dining options or the shopping convenience of St. Johns Town Center for Southside residents, there’s a perfect spot for your lifestyle.

People in different neighborhoods tend to develop their own routines and favorite spots. This guide should help you find that perfect balance of livability and affordability that makes Jacksonville an incredible place to call home. Whether you’re a healthcare professional who needs easy access to multiple hospital campuses, a financial expert who wants to walk to work downtown, or someone who wants to be near premium shopping and dining, your ideal Jacksonville neighborhood is here.