Possible move to Jax (Jacksonville, Ocala: budget, jobs, cost of living)

[OcalaCitrus]

For the past couple months I've been strongly thinking of moving from Ocala to Jacksonville. I've done some research on jobs, cost of living, places to live and see, etc. It seems that the cost of living in roughly the same as it is here, but that they job market is much more robust. I'd also like the idea of being closer to the beaches and with more cultural and other attractions. I also have a son in middle school and am curious about the school system (can't brag about what we have down here). Any information for me out there?

[riveree]

Well, I don't think we brag about our public school systems here either...but I think that's a common issue in 1) Florida and 2) across the nation, so......

Private or Parochial school can be a very good option if the budget allows.

Middle schools in Jax tend to be fine, it's the high schools where things seem to really go downhill. We do have some very good high schools, but not enough (not enough good high schools and also just not enough high schools).

Someone is likely to post "move to St. John's county" as a solution, but it's just not that easy.

St. John's county, and Clay county, are experiencing tremendous growth largely due to the vast amounts of land being developed into these mega-developments. Yet, there are currently just a handful of high schools in St. Johns and Clay to handle all these new families moving in. Overcrowding issues are already happening. On top of that, there is the lifestyle issue to consider - living in St. John's or Clay is going to be very different than living in Duval (population, job opportunities, culture, etc.).

All three counties - Duval, St. John's and Clay - have their school issues. All three can cite A, B, C & D-rated schools. If schools are going to determine where you will live, I would suggest researching the most recent FCAT scores to start.

Hope that helps .