St Johns River tends to be the focal point of much of the Jacksonville lifestyle. And the Southside provides some of the most stunning views of the river you’ll find anywhere in the City. When relocating to Northeast Florida, Southside has a lot to offer.
Southside Jacksonville, FL
A Brief History
About 280 years ago, Spanish soldiers watched over what we now know as Southside Jacksonville from their perch at Fort St Nicholas. At the time, they laid claim Florida lands. So, the purpose of building the fort helped them protect their interests from smugglers and British troops. Meanwhile, they watched over settlers and Missionaries to keep them safe from attacks from Native American tribes.
For decades, the St Johns River provided transportation of goods up and down the interior of the state. By the mid to late 1800s, tourists began journeying to the Jacksonville area seeking refuge from winter cold elsewhere in the country. The St Johns River Bridge allowed access for vehicular traffic for the very first time in the area in 1921. Seventy years later, the newer Acosta Bridge replaced it.
In the late 1980s, the City constructed walkways along the north and south sides of the river, creating the Northbank and Southbank Riverwalks, respectively. Just before the turn of the 21st century, St Johns was declared an American Heritage River.
Demographics
Southside offers a great community for families to reside in. According to Niche.com, beautiful weather, short commute times, a plethora of outdoor activities, and the cost of living makes this a great place to live. The median home value in Southside is $246,043. More than twice as many people rent their homes as those that own them. Niche also ranked Southside #8 on its Best Neighborhoods for Young Professionals in Jacksonville list. With a vibrant urban scene, you can see why young professionals enjoy living here, too.
What to See and Do While in Southside
If you love to shop, you must visit the St Johns Town Centre. Avenues Mall also offers upscale retail shopping for clothing, accessories, jewelry, and much more. Dine on delicious surf and turf right on the river at Chart House. Then, take a stroll along the Riverwalk. Finally, go see a movie at Cinemark Tinseltown. Sound like the perfect date night to me.
When you decide to make Jacksonville your home, whether that be in Southside, Murray Hill, Brooklyn, or any other great community, contact the Welch Team. We’ll find you the perfect home for you and your loved ones to live in.
