Let the numbers do the talking.
Jacksonville, FL vs Lake Mary, FL
Jacksonville, FL vs Lake Mary, FL: What the data shows
Jacksonville, FL is in Jacksonville, FL while Lake Mary, FL is in Lake Mary, FL — both in the same state. On home prices, Jacksonville, FL is the more affordable option at $230,200 median — $147,900 less than Lake Mary, FL's $378,100. WYLT rates Jacksonville, FL as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Lake Mary, FL as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Lake Mary, FL has the stronger safety profile of the two. Jacksonville, FL has High violent crime and Moderate property crime. Lake Mary, FL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Jacksonville, FL has Low flood risk and Lake Mary, FL has Low flood risk.
Lake Mary, FL is the more walkable neighborhood. Jacksonville, FL scores N/A/100 versus Lake Mary, FL's 42/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Jacksonville, FL has the higher school rating — Jacksonville, FL rates 7.1/10 and Lake Mary, FL rates 6.2/10.
| Category | Jacksonville, FL | Lake Mary, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $230K ✓ Lower price | $378K |
| Median Rent | $935 ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $38K | $104K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | 42/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 3/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 2/100 | 25/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 2 min ✓ Shorter commute | 25 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | F | D+ ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | High | Moderate ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.1/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.2/10 |
| Best for | young professionalsstudentsshort‑term renters | Families with kidsCommuters to OrlandoSuburban lifestyle seekers |
Bottom line
For young professionals, students, or those seeking short-term rentals, Jacksonville might be a more affordable option, but it comes with the trade-off of safety concerns and lack of walkability. For families with kids or those prioritizing a quiet suburban lifestyle with decent schools, Lake Mary is a more suitable choice. Ultimately, if you value affordability over safety, Jacksonville might work, but for most others, Lake Mary is a better bet.
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