Moving to Fernandina Beach, FL — Cost, Timing, Best-For

What to know before you move: cost, market timing, who it fits.

66
Momentum score
$609,043
Median home value
-2.1%
Home YoY
13,672
Population

If you're considering a move to Fernandina Beach, FL, the most important variables are the local housing market, the cost structure (taxes, insurance, utilities), and how well the city fits your day-to-day life. This page summarizes the housing market read; pair it with the cost of living page for the full picture.

Fernandina Beach is a city in Nassau County, Florida, with an estimated population of 13,672. It anchors the Jacksonville metro area. The population grew 1.2% annually from 2020 to 2024, a moderate gain. The median home value in Fernandina Beach is $609,043 as of 2026-04, down 2.1% over the last 12 months. Over the last five years, home values have averaged +6.8% annual growth (-3.1% from the 5-year peak). Rents in Fernandina Beach average $2,383 per month, up 11.0% year-over-year. The composite momentum score is 66 of 100 (Rising). The market is healthy with prices supported by underlying demand.

Quiet strength: prices near or at all-time highs (-3.1% from 5-year peak). Solid market for owner-occupiers; investors should underwrite conservatively given the elevated entry point.

Reasons people move here

  • Healthy 5-year run: +6.8% annualized over 5 years, outpacing US inflation.
  • Net positive migration: population up 1.2% per year — demand fundamentals are intact.
  • Hot rental market: rents up 11.0% YoY — landlords have pricing power, supports new investment math.

Things to know first

  • Cooling: -2.1% over the trailing year — momentum has stalled.
  • Rental squeeze: rents up 11.0% YoY — tenants face tough renewals. Affordability deteriorating fast.

More about Fernandina Beach

Sources: Zillow ZHVI (home values), Zillow ZORI (rents), US Census ACS + place population. Updated when source agencies publish revisions.