What to know when moving to Jacksonville, NC
Jacksonville at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 40.9% of residents rent and the median household income is $61,462.
- The Major Draw:
- Affordable living with median gross rent at $1,014.
- The Reality Check:
- 15.2% of residents live below the poverty line, indicating some economic challenges.
- Commute:
- Zero percent of commuters use public transit, so plan on a car.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for $1,014 in rent to secure a home here.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Jacksonville offers a mix of renters and homeowners, with about 40.9% of the population renting their homes. The median household income stands at $61,462, which supports a variety of lifestyles. However, the poverty rate is at 15.2%, highlighting some residents face economic difficulties. The area is also characterized by its lack of public transit usage, as only 0% commute via this method, which suggests that residents are primarily car-dependent.
Probably not your spot if you prefer urban centers with robust public transit options.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $1,014, making it relatively affordable compared to many other regions.
- Median owner-occupied home value is $201,700, indicating a stable housing market.
- 23% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, reflecting a moderate education level in the community.
- The poverty rate is 15.2%, affecting economic conditions locally.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
Crime data from North Carolina reveals some important trends. The state's property crime rate is 1,780.6 per 100,000 residents, which is higher than the national average of 1,546.9. However, property crime has decreased by 15.1% from 2022 to 2025. The violent crime rate stands at 321 per 100,000, slightly below the national rate of 325.3, with a notable decrease of 21.5% over the same period.
- Violent crime: 321 per 100k vs. national 325.3, down 21.5% since 2022.
- Property crime: 1,780.6 per 100k vs. national 1,546.9, down 15.1% since 2022.
- Homicide: 6.4 per 100k, up from national rate of 4.3, down 23.2% since 2022.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for North Carolina).
Schools & Higher Ed
In Jacksonville, there are 2 postsecondary institutions available, both located within Onslow County. This includes:
- Coastal Carolina Community College
- Miller-Motte College-Jacksonville
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations (NCES) + College Scorecard (ED).
Weather & Getting Outside
While specific climate data is unavailable, there are several parks and outdoor spots nearby that residents can enjoy:
- Onslow County Parks: Onslow Pines Park - 4.7 stars (1,107 reviews)
- Northeast Creek Park - 4.6 stars (1,018 reviews)
- Wilson Bay Park - 4.6 stars (833 reviews)
- Altitude Trampoline Park - 4.2 stars (1,400 reviews)
Source: Google Places API (New).