Jacksonville, FL

I described Jacksonville in my most recent book as an assortment of mini-cities nestled along the St. John’s River and the Atlantic Ocean. The Mandarin community is one of the most scenic neighborhoods, blending modern home styles with historical residences.

The Mandarin Museum and Historical Society describes the area’s genealogy:

In the 1800s, Mandarin was a small farming village that shipped oranges, grapefruit, lemons and other fruits and vegetables to Jacksonville and points north on the steamships that traveled the St. Johns River.

In the southern part of Duval County very close to the St. John’s County line, Mandarin is within half an hour of the beaches and St. Augustine. You can stroll along the St. John’s River at places like Mandarin Park. There are quality public schools and parochial schools to choose from. Mandarin schools are in Duval County public school region IV. Churches of different faiths are sprinkled throughout Mandarin in abundance. Encounters with wildlife like egrets, hawks, turtles, small game and even alligators are not uncommon.

San Jose Blvd. is a major artery running through the heart of Mandarin. We tell people, “If you can’t find it on San Jose, you don’t need it.” Many restaurants and small shopping centers are located along this boulevard, part of State Road 13.

City parks and river access provide lots of opportunities for outdoor recreation. Median sales price for a home is $300,000; average listing price is $638,000. In the five years we’ve lived here, home prices have risen dramatically, partly because of the great schools and partly because of the strategic location, convenient to both I-95 and I-295. You’re also minutes away from a great alternative route going north and south, US 1.

Many of the homes in the area have pools, and at the present time, you still get some yard with your house.

Mandarin is a great community for families, one of the many fine places to live in Jacksonville. (photos by Kay B. Day)

Word Press, Technorati, Tags, Jacksonville FL neighborhoods, Mandarin neighborhood, homes, relocate, Florida cities