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, originally known as Cowford due to its cattle crossing site, was established in 1822 and quickly grew into a bustling port city. The city played a strategic role during the Civil War, serving as a major supply station for the Confederacy. Following the war, Jacksonville experienced a period of rapid growth and development, becoming a hub for both shipping and tourism. In the early 20th century, Jacksonville suffered setbacks from a devastating fire and the collapse of the Florida land boom. However, the city rebounded in the 1920s with the development of new industries and the establishment of the Jacksonville Naval Air Station. Throughout the 20th century, Jacksonville continued to grow and diversify its economy, attracting businesses and tourists alike. Today, Jacksonville is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage, beautiful beaches, and a thriving arts scene. It remains an important port city and a popular destination for visitors seeking a mix of southern charm and modern amenities.

1- The top 10 industries that are hiring locally:

  • Healthcare
  • Technology
  • Education
  • Hospitality
  • Finance
  • Retail
  • Construction
  • Manufacturing
  • Transportation
  • Real Estate

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

  • Hiking
  • Biking
  • Skiing
  • Fishing
  • Golfing
  • Boating
  • Horseback riding
  • Wine tasting
  • Camping
  • Shopping

3- Average low and high temperature for the month:

  • Low: 50°F
  • High: 75°F

4- Average precipitation for the month:

  • 3 inches

5- Elevation:

  • 3000 feet above sea level

6- Average home price:

  • $350,000

7- Average household income:

  • $60,000

8- The top 10 tourist points of interest:

  • National Park
  • Museum
  • Historical Landmark
  • Zoo
  • Botanical Garden
  • Shopping District
  • Amusement Park
  • Waterfront Promenade
  • Wineries
  • Farmers Market

The top 10 restaurants:

Orsay

Avondale

Orsay is a contemporary bistro offering creative renditions of French classics with Southern influences, all set in a stylish atmosphere.

Black Sheep Restaurant

Five Points

Black Sheep is known for its rooftop dining, serving innovative and upscale Southern-inspired dishes using the highest quality ingredients.

Restaurant Medure

Ponte Vedra Beach

Restaurant Medure combines American cuisine with an elegant atmosphere, showcasing steaks and seafood with an emphasis on seasonality and sustainability.

Taverna

San Marco

Taverna offers a modern approach to Italian cuisine, featuring seasonal ingredients and an extensive wine list in a cozy, sophisticated setting.

Town Hall

San Marco

Town Hall is a stylish eatery focusing on locally sourced ingredients, offering New American fare with a robust wine and craft cocktail menu.

Matthew’s Restaurant

San Marco

Matthew’s Restaurant is upscale dining at its finest, offering artfully presented New American dishes with a focus on fresh, local ingredients in an elegant setting.

Rue Saint-Marc

Riverside

Rue Saint-Marc blends French-inspired cuisine with modern American touches, providing a sleek yet casual dining experience complemented by a curated wine and cocktail selection.

Biscottis

Avondale

Biscottis is a cozy neighborhood cafe renowned for its eclectic, globally inspired menu and decadent desserts, served in a relaxed, art-filled space.

Marker 32

Intracoastal West

Marker 32 offers waterfront dining with a focus on fresh, regional seafood and an inviting ambiance, perfect for enjoying contemporary Florida cuisine.

Coop 303

Atlantic Beach

Coop 303 serves elevated Southern cuisine in a chic, yet casual setting, providing a unique culinary experience with its creative dishes and vibrant atmosphere.

Current Events:

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey presents The Greatest Show On Earth
Jan 19
Thu • 2:00pm

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

VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena

Gregory Alan Isakov
Jan 19
Thu • 8:00pm

Gregory Alan Isakov

Florida Theatre Jacksonville

GHOST: Skeletour World Tour 2026
Jan 22
Thu • 8:00pm

GHOST: Skeletour World Tour 2026

VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena

Blue Man Group BLUEVOLUTION WORLD TOUR
Jan 22
Thu • 7:30pm

Blue Man Group BLUEVOLUTION WORLD TOUR

Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts – Moran Theater

GHOST
Jan 22
Thu • 8:00pm

GHOST

VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena

Jax Symphony: Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back
Jan 23
Thu • 7:00pm

Jax Symphony: Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back

Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts – Jacoby Hall

Jacksonville Icemen v Savannah Ghost Pirates
Jan 23
Thu • 7:00pm

Jacksonville Icemen v Savannah Ghost Pirates

VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena

Blue Man Group BLUEVOLUTION WORLD TOUR
Jan 23
Thu • 8:00pm

Blue Man Group BLUEVOLUTION WORLD TOUR

Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts – Moran Theater

Yacht Rock Revue
Jan 23
Thu • 8:00pm

Yacht Rock Revue

Florida Theatre Jacksonville