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New Homes for Sale Near NAS Jacksonville Navy Base | Florida

NAS Jacksonville Navy Base is located in the heart of North Florida and has been an integral part of the U.S. Navy since 1940. Today, NAS Jacksonville is a hub for training, research & development, and fleet support operations.

NAS Jacksonville specializes in providing high-quality training and support services for Navy personnel and their families.

With over 17,000 personnel stationed here, NAS Jacksonville offers a wide range of services, including education and counseling programs, medical services, legal assistance programs, community outreach programs, and more.

The base also provides operational airlift capabilities through its fleet of cargo aircraft that transport people and materials worldwide.


History of the Base

The NAS Jacksonville Navy Base has a long and rich history dating back to the 19th century.

It was officially commissioned in 1940 as an aviation support facility to protect Florida's 1,200 miles of coastline during World War II. It served as a training ground for thousands of new pilots preparing to enter combat duty during the war.

After the war, NAS Jacksonville continued to serve as an important center for naval aviation activity until it was decommissioned.

However, due to increasing demands on naval operations during Operation Desert Storm in 1991, NAS Jacksonville was reactivated and has since served as a primary training site for all branches of military service.

Today, NAS Jax plays a significant role in providing fleet support services for America's military forces at home and abroad. The base has seen many changes and additions, but it remains an integral part of the Navy's operations.

The base serves as a homeport for several ships and guided missile cruisers. It is also home to the famous Blue Angels, who are the Navy's flight demonstration team.

The base is also home to the world-renowned Naval Hospital Jacksonville, which provides medical care to active-duty service members, their families, and retirees.

As NAS Jacksonville's activities and personnel have grown, the number of commands/activities has increased tremendously.

From its beginnings as an aviation support facility during World War II up through its current role providing fleet support services today - there's no denying that NAS Jacksonville is an essential part of America's defense infrastructure.


What Are Some Notable Events That Have Occurred at NAS Jacksonville Navy Base?

Over the years, many notable events have occurred at this base, including President John F. Kennedy, who stopped at NAS Jacksonville in 1962. He recognized their missions during the Cuban Missile Crisis and was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation to Photograph Reconnaissance Squadron (VFP) 62.

In addition to these events, NAS Jacksonville has hosted many air shows over the past few decades featuring some of the most impressive aircraft today, such as Blue Angels (station's 70th anniversary) and Centennial of Naval Aviation, among many others.


Life Off the Base

When it comes to life off the base at NAS Jacksonville Navy Base in Florida, there is no shortage of places to stay and things to do.

From outdoor activities such as fishing and boating to cultural attractions like museums and art galleries, as well as Jacksonville's vibrant housing market, you won't be bored living off base.


Outdoor Activities

NAS Jacksonville Naval Air Station is located on the St. Johns River, and this area offers many opportunities for outdoor recreation. McCaffrey Softball Complex, for instance, has a concession stand for those who wish to enjoy a snack while watching a game. There is an announcer booth on each of the three fields.

For those who want water sliding, there is NAS Jacksonville Outdoor Pool, a 150" waterslide. The service members and their families can enjoy the pool free of charge. You can also get swimming classes for individuals or groups.

There are also plenty of waterfront parks along the river with boat ramps, picnic areas, playgrounds, and more. For instance, you can enjoy a Southbank riverwalk along St. Johns River, where you can take in stunning sunset views and view various art installations such as the Alexander Brest Museum and Gallery and Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum.

Fishing is also popular in this region; anglers often come to St. Johns River searching for bass, catfish, and other freshwater species. However, Casa Linda Lake allows catch-and-release fishing only.


Cultural Attractions

Jacksonville is home to several interesting cultural attractions, including art galleries, museums, theaters, libraries, and performing arts centers. The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens features works from renowned painters such as Monet and Rembrandt. At the same time, the MOSH (Museum Of Science & History) offers interactive exhibits that children will love.

Other popular places include The Cathedral Arts Project (a community organization that provides free arts education) and The Ritz Theatre & LaVilla Museum (which showcases African American history).


Shopping & Dining Options

There are plenty of shopping options nearby. The two malls nearby include St. Johns Town Center and Orange Park Mall. You also find a variety of smaller stores throughout the city.

For dining out options, numerous restaurants serve everything from seafood dishes to Mexican fare. If you're looking for nightlife entertainment options, plenty of bars and pubs offer live music or comedy shows every week.


The Housing Market

The housing market around NAS Jacksonville is quite diverse; whether you're looking for a single-family home on a quiet street or an apartment complex close to all the action, you'll find something that meets your needs here.

A 22.1% increase over the past year has brought the median home value in Jacksonville to $314,708. There has been a 2.7% increase in median rent prices over the past year, up to $1,748.

The housing market around NAS Jacksonville is expected to grow in the coming years, thanks to the influx of military personnel and their families. This is an excellent time to start for those looking for new homes for sale near the NAS Jacksonville navy base.


Schools & Education Opportunities

The area around NAS Jacksonville has some excellent schools and educational opportunities available for families living off-base. The Duval County Public Schools system is highly rated by parents and students, offering excellent educational programs that prepare children for college and beyond.

There are also several private schools in the area and several universities within driving distance from NAS Jacksonville, making it easy for military personnel or their dependents to pursue higher education without having to relocate far away from home.


House key on wooden table


Reasons to Live Off Base

You may consider living on or off base if you're a military service member. While living on base has its perks, there are also benefits of living off base.

From increased freedom to added convenience, there are various reasons why off-base housing might be the better choice for your situation.


More Independence and Freedom

Living off-base allows you and your family more privacy and independence. You have control over who visits your home when it is cleaned and other household rules.

You don't need to worry about going through any approval process when it comes to having guests over or having people stay over for an extended period.


Additional Amenities

When you live off-base, you can access specific amenities unavailable on military bases, such as gyms, pools, and community centers.

These can provide great socialization and recreation opportunities in your backyard! Many communities also have great outdoor spaces perfect for bike riding or enjoying fresh air with friends and family.


Reduced costs

Depending on where you choose to live, rent prices may be lower when living off-base than if you lived in a base housing unit. This can help free up some extra money in your budget that could be used towards other expenses like groceries or entertainment activities with family members.

It may also allow you to save more money each month since rent prices will usually remain consistent from month to month rather than fluctuating depending on BAH rates like they do when living on base.


You Can Find Your Place

Whether it's an apartment or house, living off-base gives you the freedom to choose where you want to live.

Other considerations include whether you want roommates, how far away from work you want to be, how much space you need, and what kind of commute you're willing to deal with.


You'll Have More Freedom for a Better Social Life

Service members live off-base because it allows for more freedom and a better social life. Off-base housing allows service members to live in their own homes or apartments, which gives them more privacy and space than on-base housing.

Additionally, off-base housing is often located close to amenities like restaurants, shopping, and entertainment, making socializing easier and having fun on the weekends.


More Money in Your Pocket

If you live on base, you'll pay BAH (Basic Allowance for Housing) to help cover your housing expenses. This allowance can be substantial depending on where you live and how much money you make.

The money you spend on rent is more likely to be less than your BAH allowance, leaving some cash in your pocket.


Top 4 Neighborhoods Around NAS Jacksonville Navy Base

If you're looking for a place to live near NAS Jacksonville Navy Base, you're in for a treat. The area surrounding the base is full of great neighborhoods that offer everything from affordable housing to top-rated schools.

Whether looking for a family-friendly community off-base rental or a place to call your own, you will find the perfect fit.


San Jose Forest Neighborhood

The San Jose Forest Neighborhood is located along the banks of St. Johns River, just across NAS Jacksonville. It is a large suburban neighborhood with an established population. The homes in this area are primarily single-family homes with a few townhomes and condos mixed in. Many parks and recreational areas, including the Flight Fit N Fun amusement center, are steps away from the neighborhood.

The homes in this neighborhood offer a wide range of price points. Many of these houses are older and were built before the earthquake codes were put into place, and most of them give a historical flavor.

However, You can find new construction or remodeled homes that meet those codes; finding something that needs some work done or has been updated over time might be more accessible. However, if you're willing to put in some elbow grease, there are plenty of affordable options in this neighborhood that will fit your budget and give you plenty of space for your family.


Venetia Neighborhood

Housing in the Venetia neighborhood is a mix of single-family homes and townhouses. There are some apartments and condos, but they are not as prevalent as in other areas of Jacksonville.

The median home value in this area is $299,743, higher than the average home value for Jacksonville at $314,708. The median size for a home here is 2,800 square feet, which is about average for this city. Most homes here were built around the 1950s or later, so they are relatively new or improved constructions.

The average rental rate for apartments here is $1,224 per month, which is above the average rent rate for Jacksonville overall of $1,748 per month.


Beauclerc Gardens

Beauclerc Gardens is a neighborhood in Jacksonville, Florida. It is located within the Southside area of Jacksonville, an area that is known for its affluent residents and beautiful homes. The neighborhood offers excellent amenities such as a swimming pool, tennis courts, and more!

In addition to the great amenities offered by the community, Beauclerc Gardens also has easy access to I-295 for several other parts of the city. This makes commuting to work or school very convenient.

Homes in this area are typically older and smaller than homes in other areas of Jacksonville. Most homes were built before 1999, and most are two bedrooms with a living space of more than 1,000 square feet. The median home price in Beauclerc gardens is $375,240, but the properties fronting the river may cost way higher. The average monthly rent is $1,481 which also fluctuates depending on seasons.

If you're looking for new homes for sale near NAS Jacksonville Navy Base, it's hard to beat this neighborhood. The community borders the riverfront and offers beautiful views from many of its homes, attracting investors to build new constructions. There are plenty of golf courses nearby if you want to play 18 holes on your day off.

If you like cycling or jogging, head to Elizabeth' Betty" Wolfe Park for a refreshing picnic. The park is right at the neighborhood's core for easy access for families living off base to enjoy nature.


Ortega Neighborhoods

The Ortega Neighborhoods are located in Jacksonville, north of the naval base. The community is named after the Ortega River, which provides its boundary. It is a planned community that includes single-family homes, townhomes, and condominiums.

The Ortega Neighborhoods are bordered on the west by the Ortega river, on the east by St. Johns River, and on the north by the Ortega River. Public schools, such as Paxon School for Advanced Studies, Stanton College Preparatory, Douglas Anderson School of Arts, and River City Science Academy Middle, serve the area.

Houses in this neighborhood range from small cottages to large single-family homes. There are also some duplexes and condos available in this neighborhood, making it appealing to those looking for new homes for sale near the NAS Jacksonville navy base.

Buyers would buy new houses at around $520,177 and part with an average rent of $1,839 per month. Ortega Neighborhoods homeowners association fees are low by Jacksonville standards, ranging from $195 to $205 per month.

Several recreation facilities are located near this community, including Cummer Museum of Art and Stockton Park, and other small parks throughout the area. These parks provide residents access to walking trails and playgrounds where children can play safely.


Wrap Up

Moving to an off-base or military neighborhood can offer more space for your money. There are many new homes for sale near NAS Jacksonville Navy Base for those looking for a place to live off-base. The homes in this area are priced well and offer great value.

There are also many amenities nearby, making off-base life an excellent choice for service members and their families. Find a new home at NAS Jacksonville navy base and begin enjoying the benefits of living off-base.

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