Lake Forest, Jacksonville,FL

Lake Forest is a charming neighborhood in the southeast part of Jacksonville, FL, that offers a wonderful blend of suburban comfort and urban convenience. This area is known for its peaceful streets lined with mature trees, making it an inviting place for families and professionals alike. Residents love the close-knit community vibe, where neighbors often gather for local events and enjoy the abundance of parks nearby. If you're relocating to Jacksonville and looking for a neighborhood that balances tranquility with accessibility, Lake Forest is definitely worth considering.

One of the standout features of Lake Forest is its proximity to some great local attractions. The area boasts several recreational spots including the popular Lake Forest Park, which is perfect for picnics, jogging, and family outings. Nearby, you'll find the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, a fantastic destination for weekends with kids or friends. For those who enjoy shopping and dining, the nearby St. Johns Town Center offers a wide range of stores and restaurants to explore. Whether you’re into outdoor activities or prefer a leisurely day of shopping, Lake Forest’s location provides easy access to plenty of options.

Commuting from Lake Forest to Downtown Jacksonville is quite convenient, typically taking about 15 to 20 minutes by car without heavy traffic. This makes it easy for residents to enjoy the vibrant downtown scene, including the lively nightlife, theaters, and cultural events, while still retreating to a quieter neighborhood after work. Public transportation options are also available, though many locals prefer driving. Overall, Lake Forest offers a perfect mix of suburban charm and urban proximity, making it a great choice for anyone moving to the Jacksonville area.

About 33% of the Lake Forest population aged 16 and older are married, which is notably lower than average. This could suggest a community with a younger, more transient population—perhaps made up of students, professionals, or renters. It may also reflect a neighborhood that attracts singles or couples without children, contributing to a more independent, urban lifestyle.

With only 22% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Lake Forest demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 2,241 residents, Lake Forest is notably smaller than many other Jacksonville neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

Lake Forest has a population density of 2,818, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other Jacksonville neighborhoods. The area offers just the right mix of activity and breathing room, creating a community that’s lively yet comfortable, with easy access to amenities and everyday conveniences.

With an average age of 43, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

The Lake Forest crime map offers a clear, data-driven look at how crime is distributed throughout the neighborhood, using block group data to highlight both safer areas and potential hot spots. The color-coded map makes it easy to see where crime is more concentrated and where it occurs less frequently, helping residents and prospective buyers better understand local safety patterns. It’s important to note that darker or red zones on the map don’t necessarily mean those areas are unsafe — locations near busy transit hubs, shopping districts, or popular attractions often show higher activity simply due to larger crowds and increased foot traffic.

Housing trends offer valuable insight into the accessibility and character of a neighborhood. In Lake Forest, the median home price is $128,767, which is less than many surrounding areas. This affordability makes it an attractive option for first-time buyers, young families, or anyone looking to enter the housing market without a significant financial barrier. Looking at appreciation rates and past market trends in Lake Forest can offer valuable insight into the neighborhood’s investment potential. Understanding how home values have changed over time helps buyers gauge future growth, assess long-term stability, and make more informed real estate decisions.

The median rent is around $1,157, which is on par with many comparable neighborhoods. This balanced pricing offers a mix of affordability and value, making it a practical choice for a wide range of renters.

School quality plays an important role in shaping the overall appeal of a neighborhood like Lake Forest. Ratings based on student achievement, graduation rates, and standardized tests — supported by national benchmarks like the NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) — help paint a clearer picture of how local schools perform. Additionally, understanding the education levels of residents in Lake Forest offers valuable context about the community’s emphasis on learning and opportunity, helping families make confident decisions about where to settle and invest in their children’s future.