The 50 best places to live in America

45. Jacksonville, Florida

Population: 1,401,600

Average annual salary: $43,460

Quality of life: 6.7

Value: 6.1

Jacksonville’s beach-adjacent location makes it ideal for outdoor activities. In addition to spending lazy days in the sand, residents can also visit the area’s prime golf courses or go hiking, camping, and kayaking in the nearby parks. Jacksonville also continues to grow, with burgeoning art and music scenes, as well as new business development, according to a local expert.