JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A proposed development in downtown Jacksonville could bring new affordable housing options to the Northbank — and now, for the first time, there’s a clearer picture of what some of those units could cost.
The project, known as Duval 212, is planned for the Cathedral Hill neighborhood and is expected to go before the Downtown Investment Authority (DIA) as part of the approval process.
If approved, the development would include about 85 apartment units, with most set aside for what’s considered affordable and workforce housing, along with a smaller number of market-rate units.
According to project documents, rent for some units would be based on income — not just market demand.
That means:
- Some of the lowest-cost units could rent for roughly $500 to $700 a month
- Other units could range closer to $1,100 to $1,300 a month
- A smaller number of market-rate units could be priced higher
The rent ranges are tied to what’s known as area median income (AMI) — meaning how much a household earns helps determine what they would pay.
In simple terms, some units are designed for people earning well below Jacksonville’s average income. In contrast, others are aimed at what’s often called workforce housing — including jobs like teachers, healthcare workers, and service industry employees.
Plans show the development would also include:
- About 1,200 square feet of commercial space
- A mix of residential options aimed at increasing downtown living
The total cost of the project is estimated at more than $36 million.
Part of the proposal includes about $610,000 in support from the Downtown Investment Authority, which would help developers secure additional funding.
Even if the resolution is approved, the project is still in the early stages.
Developers would still need to:
- Secure additional funding, including low-income housing tax credits
- Finalize financing
- Obtain permits
Construction would not begin until those steps are complete.
As Jacksonville continues to grow, housing — especially affordable housing — remains a key concern for many residents.
Projects like Duval 212 are part of a broader effort to bring more people into downtown while offering options at different price points.