Welcome to the Newto News for January of 2026. My name is Zack Cockfield, and my team and I created Newtomedia as a way for visitors or new residents to get information about a city. Each month we bring together resources that will update you on the history, amenities, culture, future opportunities and all other things inside a city that make it unique. We also hope to be a resource for connecting you with people and businesses that can help you live a better life. If you find our efforts useful, please click on the links to get more information!

For more information, Go to newtomedia.com

Jacksonville, Florida, is a city with a rich and diverse history dating back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by the Timucua people before it was colonized by the French in the 16th century. In 1822, the United States acquired Florida from Spain and Jacksonville was established as a settlement along the St. Johns River. Throughout the 19th century, Jacksonville grew rapidly due to its strategic location as a major port and transportation hub. It played a key role in the Civil War and was occupied by Union forces for much of the conflict. After the war, the city experienced a period of reconstruction and growth, becoming a popular destination for tourists and winter visitors. In the 20th century, Jacksonville continued to expand and develop, becoming a leading center for finance, industry, and tourism in the Southeast. Today, the city is known for its vibrant cultural scene, beautiful beaches, and thriving economy.

1- the top 10 industries that are hiring locally:

  • Healthcare
  • Technology
  • Education
  • Hospitality
  • Finance
  • Manufacturing
  • Retail
  • Construction
  • Transportation
  • Government

2- the top 10 recreational activities the area is known for:

  • Hiking
  • Biking
  • Fishing
  • Boating
  • Skiing
  • Golfing
  • Wine tasting
  • Camping
  • Art galleries
  • Live music events

3- average low and high temperature for the month:

  • Average Low: 50°F
  • Average High: 75°F

4- average precipitation for the month:

  • Average Precipitation: 2 inches

5- elevation:

  • Elevation: 500 feet

6- average home price:

  • Average Home Price: $300,000

7- average household income:

  • Average Household Income: $60,000

8- the top 10 tourist points of interest:

  • National Park
  • Historic Downtown Area
  • Museum
  • Botanical Garden
  • Zoo
  • Wineries
  • Scenic Overlook
  • Waterfalls
  • Lighthouse
  • Amusement Park

The top 10 restaurants:

Restaurant Orsay

Avondale

Restaurant Orsay offers an elegant blend of French cuisine with Southern influences, featuring a warm and inviting ambiance perfect for special occasions or a delightful night out.

Bistro Aix

San Marco

Bistro Aix delivers a French and Mediterranean-inspired menu in a stylish, contemporary setting, known for its wood-fired pizzas and a bustling open kitchen.

Black Sheep Restaurant

Riverside

Black Sheep is a modern American restaurant focused on utilizing local ingredients and offers beautiful rooftop views, making it great for brunch or dinner.

Taverna

San Marco

Taverna provides an authentic and modern take on rustic Italian cuisine in an inviting European-style setting, with an emphasis on handmade pastas and a curated wine selection.

Marker 32

Intercoastal West

Marker 32 offers sophisticated seafood-driven dishes with a waterfront view, providing a refined yet relaxed dining experience that’s been a staple in Jacksonville for years.

Town Hall

San Marco

Town Hall features a community-focused dining experience with a seasonal menu highlighting American cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients.

Matthews Restaurant

San Marco

Matthews is an upscale destination known for its refined New American cuisine and innovative dishes, along with an extensive wine list expertly curated by a knowledgeable staff.

Blue Fish Restaurant and Oyster Bar

Avondale

The Blue Fish Restaurant presents a casual yet gourmet seafood dining experience featuring a raw oyster bar, fresh catches, and Southern-inspired dishes.

Rue Saint Marc

San Marco

Rue Saint Marc is a chic bistro providing a creative menu with French-inspired cuisine and craft cocktails, set in an elegant and modern space.

Eleven South Bistro & Bar

South Jacksonville Beach

Eleven South offers an intimate dining atmosphere with a menu that highlights contemporary American fare, fresh seafood, and prime meats, alongside a sophisticated wine and cocktail selection.

Current Events:

Jax Symphony: Bruckner's Majestic Eighth
Jan 16
Thu • 7:30pm

Jax Symphony: Bruckner’s Majestic Eighth

Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts – Jacoby Hall

Cancelled - Kim Waters
Jan 16
Thu • 8:00pm

Cancelled – Kim Waters

Ritz Theatre

The Purple Xperience, A Tribute to Prince
Jan 16
Thu • 8:00pm

The Purple Xperience, A Tribute to Prince

Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts – Moran Theater

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey presents The Greatest Show On Earth
Jan 16
Thu • 7:00pm

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey presents The Greatest Show On Earth

VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena

Bored Teachers
Jan 16
Thu • 7:30pm

Bored Teachers

Florida Theatre Jacksonville

Ringling Bros. Circus Fri
Jan 16
Thu • 7:00pm

Ringling Bros. Circus Fri

VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena

Jax Symphony: Bruckner's Majestic Eighth
Jan 17
Thu • 7:30pm

Jax Symphony: Bruckner’s Majestic Eighth

Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts – Jacoby Hall

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey presents The Greatest Show On Earth
Jan 17
Thu • 11:00am

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey presents The Greatest Show On Earth

VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey presents The Greatest Show On Earth
Jan 17
Thu • 7:00pm

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey presents The Greatest Show On Earth

VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena