Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Westside Branch, FL
Considering a move to Westside Branch, FL? With a population of about 14,350, this friendly community offers affordable living, with median home prices around $294,000 and average rents at $1,380. Residents enjoy a mild climate, 64% sunny days annually, and a reasonable average commute of 27 minutes. The area has a moderate crime rate, strong access to healthcare, and a variety of schools, making it a practical choice for families and individuals alike. Explore the details below to see if Westside Branch is your perfect Florida fit.
Demographics - Westside Branch, FL
Demographics - Westside Branch, FL
Westside Branch is home to roughly 14,350 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of 38 and a near-even gender balance. The area features a blend of backgrounds, with over 18% of the population speaking a language other than English at home. This diversity and moderate population density create a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers.
Population:
14,350
Density:
2,100 per sq mi
Median Age:
38.1
Gender Ratio:
94 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
18.3%

Ethnic Composition
White:
59.2%
Black:
23.5%
Asian:
2.8%
Others:
14.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Westside Branch, FL?
Living in Westside Branch is relatively affordable, with a median home value of $294,000 and typical rents around $1,380 per month. Florida’s absence of state income tax and a cost of living index just above the national average make it attractive for both homeowners and renters. Utilities, transportation, and healthcare costs are all close to or just above national norms, supporting a comfortable lifestyle.
Median House Value:
$294,000
Gross Rent:
$1,380
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$2,160
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,730
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$610
State Taxes:
Low:
0% (no state income tax)
|
High:
0% (no state income tax)
Cost Of Living Index:
101.7
Grocery:
99.2
Housing:
99.7
Utilities:
103.1
Transportation:
105.5
Health Care:
98.3
Miscellaneous:
97.8
Crime
Is Westside Branch, FL a safe place to live?
Westside Branch has a moderate crime rate for Florida, with a 1 in 280 chance of experiencing violent crime and property crimes being more common at 1 in 46. While these figures are not unusually high for the region, residents are encouraged to stay aware and take normal precautions. The overall safety profile supports a family-friendly environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
357
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,190
Crime Index:
2,547
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 280
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 46
Weather
What is the weather like in Westside Branch, FL year-round?
Residents enjoy a mild, subtropical climate with winter lows averaging 49°F and summer highs reaching 92°F. The area receives about 51 inches of rainfall annually and experiences sunny weather 64% of the year, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Seasonal changes are gentle, making it comfortable year-round.

Winter
Min:
49°F
Max:
70°F

Spring
Min:
58°F
Max:
82°F

Summer
Min:
72°F
Max:
92°F

Fall
Min:
60°F
Max:
83°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
51.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
64%
Neighbors
The community features a median household income of $56,900 and a family income of $64,200, with about 13.7% of residents living below the poverty line. Most neighbors have at least a high school diploma, and commute times average just over 27 minutes. The area is family-oriented and diverse, fostering a sense of community among residents.
Median Income:
$42,700
Household Income:
$56,900
Family Income:
$64,200
Per Capita Income:
$28,900
Income Male:
$39,200
Income Female:
$32,800
Poverty Rate:
13.7%
Non English Speakers:
18.3%
Rent:
$1,380
Unemployment Rate:
4.8%
Public Transport Usage:
1.8%
Commute Time:
27.3 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
87.1%
Bachelors or More:
23.4%
Education
How are the schools in Westside Branch, FL?
Westside Branch is served by several public and private schools, including Westside High School and Chimney Lakes Elementary, offering a range of educational opportunities. The area also benefits from nearby higher education options like Florida State College at Jacksonville, just seven miles away. With reasonable student-teacher ratios and access to both K-12 and college-level institutions, families have strong educational support.

Public Schools
Name:
Westside High School
Street:
5530 Firestone Rd
Phone:
904-573-1170
Students:
1,800
Student Teacher Ratio:
20.1
Name:
Chimney Lakes Elementary School
Street:
9353 Staples Mill Dr
Phone:
904-573-1100
Students:
850
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.4

Private Schools
Name:
St. Matthew Catholic School
Street:
1773 Blanding Blvd
Phone:
904-387-4401
Students:
400

Colleges
Name:
Florida State College at Jacksonville
City:
Jacksonville
State:
FL
Distance:
7 miles
Students:
22,000
Healthcare
Westside Branch offers strong access to healthcare, with major hospitals like UF Health Jacksonville and Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside nearby. With 2.5 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 87% health insurance coverage, medical services are both accessible and comprehensive. The area's healthcare index reflects reliable and quality care.

Major Hospitals
Name:
UF Health Jacksonville
Address:
655 W 8th St, Jacksonville, FL 32209
Phone:
(904) 244-0411
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside Hospital
Address:
1 Shircliff Way, Jacksonville, FL 32204
Phone:
(904) 308-7300
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
86.7%
Health Care Index:
69.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Westside Branch, FL?
The local housing market is stable, with a median home price of $294,000 and a 61.8% owner-occupancy rate, making it attractive for buyers and investors alike. Rental options are available, with typical two-bedroom rents at $1,380 and a modest vacancy rate. Home values have appreciated by 5.1% in the past year, reflecting steady growth.
Median Home Price:
$294,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,380
Owner Occupied Rate:
61.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.1%
New Construction Rate:
2.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Residents handle vehicle registration and licensing through the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, headquartered in Tallahassee. The DMV provides convenient online resources and statewide support for all motor vehicle and licensing needs. For detailed information or to complete transactions, visit their website or call their main office.
State:
Florida
Department:
Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Address:
2900 Apalachee Pkwy, Tallahassee, FL 32399
Phone:
1-850-617-2000
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.