So you’re thinking about buying some real estate in Jacksonville, Florida, but you’re unsure of exactly which area would be the best choice for you to settle down into. Rest assured that you’re not alone, and there are several different areas to choose from- each offering something completely different than its neighbors.

Jacksonville is the most populous city in the state of Florida, and holds the “lucky” thirteenth spot for city population for the entire country. The city is located in the northeastern corner of the state at the junction of two major interstates, and is fostered by the St. John’s River. Many US Naval bases call Jacksonville their home, as do the National Football League’s Jacksonville Jaguars. In fact, Superbowl XXXIX was played in this hospitable city between the Philadelphia Eagles and the triumphant New England Patriots.

If you’re into the city scene, it’s no surprise that Jacksonville offers lots for you. But if you’d rather play all day in the city and head home to a more quiet retreat, there are lots of options for you as well. To help you in your endeavor, here are just four of many options for buying real estate in Jacksonville, Florida:

1. Downtown. If you’re not from the greater Jacksonville area and want to meet new people, there’s no better place to meet them than downtown. Such companies as the Miami-based American Land Ventures are building riverfront condominium towers like The Strand and The Peninsula, leading the up-and-coming condo market into the new millennium.

2. South Hampton. If you want to live in the midst of paradise, South Hampton is the area for you. Although this part of town has a name that’s synonymous with luxury, real estate is very reasonably priced, especially when you consider nearby golf courses and shopping malls nearby for taking your mind off of the daily grind.

3. Victoria Lakes. Thirteen lakes and a nature preserve are the perfect backdrop for this family-based area of wonderful single-family homes. Since it’s centrally located between the sandy beaches of the coast and the excitement of the city, there’s something for everyone to do and enjoy without straying too far away from home.

4. Dawson’s Creek. Large, traditional-style homes are surrounded by natural woodlands and nature preserves- all with nearby access to quite a few major interstates to bring you into the city quickly for that all-important meeting, and home just as fast for a relaxing evening with the family. If your ideal residence includes both the hustle and bustle of city life and the relaxing atmosphere of the suburbs, Dawson’s Creek may just be the answer to your real estate needs.