Cost of Living in Jacksonville, FL

How far does a $70,000 salary go in Jacksonville? Estimated income taxes on that gross salary total approximately $7,241 per year — Florida levies no state income tax, so that figure covers federal tax only. Subtract rent for a 2-bedroom apartment ($1,658/month based on HUD Fair Market Rents for the Jacksonville metro area) and the estimated annual take-home is $42,863, or roughly $3,572 per month for everything else: food, transportation, savings, and discretionary spending.

The Jacksonville metro has a cost of living index of 108.1 according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (national average = 100). This puts Jacksonville modestly above the national average on everyday expenses beyond rent.

At a $70,000 salary, the estimated 2-bedroom rent in Jacksonville represents approximately 28% of gross income. That approaches the 30% threshold commonly used to define affordability. A smaller unit or a higher salary would improve the picture. Florida's zero income tax helps offset the rent burden compared to otherwise similar cities that also levy state income tax.