Let the numbers do the talking.
Clearwater, FL vs Jacksonville, FL
Clearwater, FL vs Jacksonville, FL: What the data shows
Clearwater, FL is in Clearwater, FL while Jacksonville, FL is in Jacksonville, FL — both in the same state. On home prices, Jacksonville, FL is the more affordable option at $230,000 median — $32,800 less than Clearwater, FL's $262,800. WYLT rates Clearwater, FL as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Jacksonville, FL as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Jacksonville, FL has the stronger safety profile of the two. Clearwater, FL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Jacksonville, FL has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Clearwater, FL has Low flood risk and Jacksonville, FL has Low flood risk.
Clearwater, FL is the more walkable neighborhood. Clearwater, FL scores 5/100 (car-dependent) versus Jacksonville, FL's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Clearwater, FL has the higher school rating — Clearwater, FL rates 8.6/10 and Jacksonville, FL rates 7.5/10.
| Category | Clearwater, FL | Jacksonville, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Settle here |
| Median Price | $263K | $230K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $51K | $56K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 5/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 42/100 ✓ Better transit | 2/100 |
| Bike Score | N/A | 60/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 37 min | 27 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | A ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8.6/10 ✓ Better schools | 7.5/10 |
| Best for | Young professionalsTampa commutersFamilies looking for good schools | Families with young childrenYoung professionals who value a strong communityRemote workers who need a stable internet connection and a productive workspace |
Bottom line
If you prioritize excellent schools and a low crime rate, Jacksonville is the better choice, despite its lack of walkability. For those who need to commute to Tampa, Clearwater's slightly higher median home price and longer commute time may be worth it for its slightly better school rating and access to Tampa's job market. Overall, Jacksonville offers a better quality of life and more affordable housing, making it a more attractive option for families and remote workers.
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