Earlier this week WalletHub announced their 2023 Best & Worst Cities for Recreation. Florida holds the distinction of being the only state with two cities included in the Top 10 (Orlando & Tampa). Jacksonville comes in at #33 with an overall score of 46.97. The Bold City follows Portland, OR and comes in just ahead of Austin, TX.
With health, wellness and longevity atop many peoples minds – this survey is a great tool in helping analyze cities if you’re thinking about a move. At the same time – if you’re already local, it can serve as a great way to look at your home city with new eyes.
How was the list scored?
WalletHub assessed parks, recreation opportunities independent of weather, overall recreational friendliness with an overarching focus on the 100 largest US cities across a total of 48 metrics. They looked to cost of living, park quality, entertainment and recreational facility accessibility and the weather.
How Did Jacksonville Score on the 2023 Best & Worst Cities for Recreation?
Overall, Jacksonville came in 33rd. It was slightly lower when looking to entertainment and recreational facilities (scoring 35th). Costs showed an improvement for the city coming in at 25th. The quality of Jacksonville parks was rated 36th. Lastly, the weather put Jacksonville in a (surprising) 67th position.
Aside from stated methodology – Jacksonville would be prime for consideration in this type of award given its 22 miles of Atlantic coastline and being home to the largest urban park system in America. The weather also helps immensely with ability for residents to be outdoors year-round. Additionally, many communities host amenities that are prime for getting people outside and moving. Even basic considerations like parks and sidewalks will help with encouraging outdoor activities (from walking to running).
The article goes on to mention that neighborhood parks are one of the best types of recreation. Further, having parks within 500-600 feet of a home can have significant impact on property values. This aligns with some of the findings in the NAR National Community and Transportation Preferences Survey from April 2023 which indicates “Living in a walkable community is correlated with higher quality of life, with half of those who live in a highly walkable community saying they are very satisfied with their quality of life.” The NAR report also offers “about six-in-ten residents would spend at least a little more for a house in a walkable community.”
Congrats Jacksonville and residents on being named to the 2023 Best & Worst Cities for Recreation! Let’s keep getting out and about and moving!