Bridge Homes City Spotlights: Florida Edition

Nicknamed the Sunshine State for its balmy weather and beautiful beaches, Florida is more than just a hot vacation spot. With ample career opportunities, numerous entertainment options, and a rich culture, it’s increasingly a place people desire to call home. In particular, Jacksonville, Orlando, and Tampa populations have risen in recent years. If you’re considering a move to Florida in any of our Bridge Homes’ locations, here’s a rundown of the top features from these three incredible cities!

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The Benefits of Living in Jacksonville, FL

With approximately 997,000 residents, Jacksonville is the most populous city in Florida and the 10th most populous city in the United States. This steadily growing population is expected to reach 1 million in 2025, cementing Jacksonville, Florida, as one of the most desirable cities in the U.S. Here’s everything you need to know before moving to this vibrant city! 

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• Affordable Cost of Living

In Jacksonville, the cost of living is 5% lower than the state average and 7% lower than the national average, with housing, transportation, utilities, and food all being cheaper than in other parts of the state and country. With the addition of a booming job market, Jacksonville is the place to be if you want the big city life without paying big city prices. 

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• Outdoor Spaces Galore

Jacksonville boasts one of the largest urban park systems in the country, as well as 22 miles of beaches, including Jacksonville Beach, Atlantic Beach, and Neptune Beach, to name a few. If you love the great outdoors, any of Jacksonville’s scenic parks or beaches are ideal for exercise and to get some fresh air. 

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• Beautiful Weather Year-Round

If you love the heat, Jacksonville is the place for you! In the winter, temperatures typically stay within 45 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit, while spring and autumn temperatures tend to fall within the 70s and 80s. Due to the city’s northeastern location, Jacksonville's summers are less scorching than in other Florida cities, but you’ll still see plenty of 90-degree days. 

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‍The Benefits of Living in Orlando, FL

‍Orlando is Florida's 4th most populous city, with about 325,000 residents. Known as “The City Beautiful” and “The Theme Park Capital of the World,” Orlando, Florida, is a premier destination for vacationers looking to soak in the summer sun. Here’s everything you need to know before moving to this fun-filled city!

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• Attractions for All Ages

Orlando is the most visited city in the U.S., with over 51 million tourists annually—and for good reason! From the Walt Disney World Resort to Universal Studios to Gatorland, Seaworld, and so much more, there’s plenty for both locals and visitors to do. And if theme parks aren’t your thing, check out Orlando’s many museums or historical sites instead!

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• Thriving Job Market

Over the last decade, Orlando’s job market has increased by over 30%, offering careers in various industries, including manufacturing, hospitality, dining, aerospace, tech, entertainment, and more. Major corporations like JetBlue, Amazon, Tupperware, and Oracle are all headquartered in Orlando. Plus the city is also home to the Central Florida Research Park, which houses more than 120 companies. 

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• Abundant Public Transportation

Orlando has plenty of public transit options to accommodate the many tourists who pass through the city. Take the LYNX bus to destinations like Disney and SeaWorld, get around downtown Orlando with the free LYMMO bus rapid transit (BRT) service, navigate neighboring counties with the SunRail, call a Lyft or Uber, or try out HOPR bike share. Whichever method you prefer is sure to be convenient and affordable!

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‍The Benefits of Living in Tampa, FL

‍With approximately 408,000 residents, Tampa is the third most populous city in Florida. The city is part of the Tampa Bay area, a large metropolitan area with tons of culture and recreational activities fit for the whole family to explore. Here’s everything you need to know before moving to the lively city of Tampa, Florida!

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• Haven for Sports Fans

Tampa Bay is the proud home of many professional sports teams, such as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NFL), the Tampa Bay Lightning (NHL), the Tampa Bay Rays (MLB), the Tampa Bay Rowdies (USL), and the Tampa Bay Sun (USL). Head to the stadium to catch a local game or cheer on Tampa Bay from your favorite sports bar!

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• Delectable Food Scene

Tampa’s food scene is vast and diverse, featuring everything from Michelin-star restaurants to multi-course dinner cruises to rooftop bars with picturesque views of the Tampa landscape. Taste Tampa’s iconic food halls by heading to Sparkman Wharf or Armature Works, where you can try a mix of cuisines, including savory barbecue, refreshing cocktails, and sweet desserts.

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• Never-Ending Entertainment

Tampa has a plethora of entertainment options available for all ages. Families can enjoy attractions like Adventure Island, the Florida Aquarium, the Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI), and Busch Gardens, while adults can partake in Tampa’s exciting nightlife scene. Plus, experience live EDM music at the annual Sunset Music Festival, meet your favorite artists at the Tampa Bay Comic Convention, and channel your inner buccaneer at the Gasparilla Pirate Fest. That’s a wrap on everything you need to know about Jacksonville, Orlando, and Tampa—find your next rental home in Florida or plenty of other desirable cities across the U.S. with Bridge Homes!

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‍A Better Living Experience

‍At Bridge Homes, we believe everyone deserves a quality home. With thousands of new or renovated home rentals in desirable neighborhoods across the United States, our dedicated team ensures each property adheres to our standards of quality, cleanliness, and safety. Explore our listings and take the first step towards a well-maintained and fulfilling living experience.

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‍Other Sources:

‍14 Things to Know About Living in Tampa

‍15 Things To Know About Moving to and Living in Jacksonville, Florida

‍Living in Tampa: 14 Things to Know From a Local