Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Fernandina, FL
Thinking of moving to Fernandina, FL? With a friendly population of about 13,500, Fernandina offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle, moderate cost of living, and a thriving housing market with median home prices near $520,000. Residents enjoy mild winters, plenty of sunny days, and shorter average commutes around 21 minutes. The community boasts quality schools, low violent crime rates, and easy access to local healthcare, making it a welcoming spot for families and retirees alike.
Demographics - Fernandina, FL
Demographics - Fernandina, FL
Fernandina is home to about 13,500 residents, with a median age of 55.3, reflecting a mature and relaxed community. The city is predominantly White, with a small but diverse mix of other backgrounds, and around 7.5% of residents speak a language other than English at home. The population density is moderate, offering a comfortable blend of small-town atmosphere and accessible amenities.
Population:
13,500
Density:
1,110 per sq mi
Median Age:
55.3
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
86.3%
Black:
7.2%
Asian:
1.2%
Others:
5.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Fernandina, FL?
Fernandina's cost of living is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 112 and median home values around $520,000. Housing and transportation tend to be more expensive, while Florida’s lack of state income tax benefits residents. Monthly rents and utilities are moderate for the region, making the city appealing for those seeking a desirable coastal lifestyle.
Median House Value:
$520,000
Gross Rent:
$1,650
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$140
Auto Insurance:
$2,100
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,210
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$690
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
112.0
Grocery:
106.5
Housing:
120.8
Utilities:
102.4
Transportation:
109.1
Health Care:
105.7
Miscellaneous:
102.0
Crime
Is Fernandina, FL a safe place to live?
Fernandina experiences relatively low violent crime, with a rate of 168 incidents per 100,000 people and a 1 in 595 chance of being affected. Property crime is more common but still manageable, at 1,420 incidents per 100,000 residents. Overall, the city is considered a safe and welcoming environment for families and retirees.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
168
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,420
Crime Index:
1,588
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 595
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 70
Weather
What is the weather like in Fernandina, FL year-round?
Fernandina enjoys a pleasant coastal climate, with mild winters averaging from 46°F to 66°F and warm summers between 74°F and 89°F. Residents benefit from about 65% sunny days and nearly 49 inches of rainfall annually, making outdoor activities enjoyable year-round. The comfortable temperatures and abundant sunshine contribute to the area’s appeal.
Winter
Min:
46°F
Max:
66°F
Spring
Min:
58°F
Max:
79°F
Summer
Min:
74°F
Max:
89°F
Fall
Min:
62°F
Max:
80°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
49.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
65%
Neighbors
The community features a healthy median household income of $73,800 and a low poverty rate of 7.1%. Most adults have completed high school, and over 40% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. With average commute times of just over 21 minutes and a very low unemployment rate, Fernandina offers a stable and well-educated population.
Median Income:
$41,500
Household Income:
$73,800
Family Income:
$87,000
Per Capita Income:
$51,300
Income Male:
$54,200
Income Female:
$41,800
Poverty Rate:
7.1%
Non English Speakers:
7.5%
Rent:
$1,650
Unemployment Rate:
3.4%
Public Transport Usage:
0.8%
Commute Time:
21.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
94.0%
Bachelors or More:
41.4%
Education
How are the schools in Fernandina, FL?
Fernandina offers quality education options, including well-rated public schools like Fernandina Beach High and Middle Schools, as well as private choices such as St. Michael Academy. The student-to-teacher ratios are around 18–19:1, supporting personalized learning. For higher education, the Florida State College at Jacksonville's Nassau Center is just 7 miles away, providing accessible college opportunities.
Public Schools
Name:
Fernandina Beach High School
Street:
435 Citrona Dr
Phone:
904-261-5713
Students:
900
Student Teacher Ratio:
19:1
Name:
Fernandina Beach Middle School
Street:
315 Citrona Dr
Phone:
904-491-7938
Students:
800
Student Teacher Ratio:
18:1
Private Schools
Name:
St. Michael Academy
Street:
228 N 4th St
Phone:
904-321-2102
Students:
300
Colleges
Name:
Florida State College at Jacksonville - Nassau Center
City:
Yulee
State:
FL
Distance:
7 miles
Students:
1,100
Healthcare
Healthcare in Fernandina is readily accessible, anchored by Baptist Medical Center Nassau and supported by a strong ratio of 2.3 physicians per 1,000 residents. Over 91% of the population has health insurance, and the city boasts a healthcare index score of 77.4, providing peace of mind for families and retirees. Emergency services and comprehensive care are available locally.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Baptist Medical Center Nassau
Address:
1250 S 18th St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
Phone:
(904) 321-3500
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.5%
Health Care Index:
77.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Fernandina, FL?
The Fernandina housing market is robust, with a median home price of $520,000 and a home appreciation rate of 7.4% over the past year. The majority of homes are owner-occupied, and rental options are available with average two-bedroom rents at $1,650. The area offers a stable investment with low foreclosure and vacancy rates.
Median Home Price:
$520,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,650
Owner Occupied Rate:
72.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.4%
New Construction Rate:
2.0%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Residents of Fernandina are served by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles at a convenient local office. The DMV provides essential services such as licensing and vehicle registration, with helpful resources available online and by phone. This ensures easy access to motor vehicle and driving needs.
State:
Florida
Department:
Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Address:
86051 License Rd, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
Phone:
(904) 491-7400
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.