Jacksonville NC

Jacksonville, North Carolina – A coastal military town with small-town charm and strong community spirit. Home to Camp Lejeune, one of the largest Marine Corps bases in the world, Jacksonville blends patriotic pride with southern hospitality. From serene waterfront views along the New River to lively local festivals and outdoor adventures, this city invites you to slow down, connect, and explore all it has to offer.

• Population: ~72,000
• Weather: Mild winters and warm, humid summers (40-90°F); occasional thunderstorms and coastal breezes.
• Places To Visit: Lejeune Memorial Gardens, Lynnwood Park Zoo, Hammocks Beach State Park, Onslow Pines Park, Pelletier House.
• Top Activities: Kayaking on the New River, visiting historic military landmarks, exploring local trails, enjoying family-friendly events, and discovering nearby beaches.
• Famous Food: Carolina-style pulled pork, fresh shrimp from the Crystal Coast, Southern fried chicken, local seafood boils, and home-style biscuits with gravy.

Jacksonville, North Carolina, is known for its strong military presence and a growing economy supported by healthcare, retail, and public service. Home to Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, the city attracts both civilians and military families, offering steady employment opportunities in various sectors. Below are the top 5 most in-demand jobs in Jacksonville, NC.

Top 5 Jobs in Jacksonville, NC

Jacksonville, NC might not be as big or flashy as some major cities, but it definitely has its charm—especially for students looking to kick back, relax, and have a little fun. Whether you’re stationed at Camp Lejeune or attending Coastal Carolina Community College, there are plenty of cool spots to unwind and socialize without having to go far.

North Topsail Beach – Just a short drive away, this peaceful stretch of sand is perfect for weekend getaways or lazy afternoons. Pack a picnic, bring a beach towel, and let the sound of the waves wash your stress away.

ALT Music Scene & Coffee Lounge – Located downtown, this cozy coffee house transforms into a live music venue and chill-out space at night. From local acoustic sets to open-mic poetry nights, it’s a creative spot where students can vibe, study, or spark new friendships.

Altitudes Trampoline Park – Need to blow off some steam after exams? This indoor park has trampolines, dodgeball, foam pits, and obstacle courses. It’s fun, active, and the perfect way to laugh off a rough week with friends.

Coastal Paws Dog Park – Don’t have a dog? That’s fine—this place is still a great chill spot where friendly folks gather. Plus, watching happy pups play is a surprisingly great stress-reliever.

Sturgeon City Park – Nestled near the New River, this local gem offers scenic walking trails, waterfront views, and a wide-open space to catch your breath. Bring a hammock, set up under a tree, and enjoy the quiet side of Jacksonville.

Bowlarena Lanes – If retro bowling, arcade games, and casual hangs are your thing, Bowlarena is a solid go-to. It’s affordable, drama-free, and great for larger groups looking to unwind on the weekend.

Mission BBQ – Want a spot with good vibes and even better food? Mission BBQ is not just a popular local eatery, it’s also a laid-back place where you can grab smoked brisket or pulled pork with friends after class or work.

Pelletier House Grounds at Old Bridge Street – This historic spot offers a chill environment for studying outdoors or just catching up with friends in a relaxing, riverside setting.

Jack Amyette Recreation Center – From rec leagues to open gym time and movie nights, this center offers more than just sports. It’s a reliable hub for active students who want to stay engaged and meet new people.

Whether you’re catching sunsets at the beach, laughing over a game of bowling, or painting your thoughts in a creative coffee lounge, Jacksonville has more to offer than meets the eye. The best part? You don’t need a ton of money or time—just the right mindset and a good group of friends.

Jacksonville, North Carolina, is a vibrant and growing city known for its close-knit community and proximity to beautiful coastal areas. When it comes to higher education, Jacksonville offers access to an array of quality public and private colleges and universities, helping students build strong foundations for their future careers.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Jacksonville, NC

Coastal Carolina Community College (CCCC) – Located right in Jacksonville, CCCC is a cornerstone of the community. It provides affordable, diverse academic and technical programs, including healthcare, business, and transfer degrees for students looking to continue to four-year institutions.

University of North Carolina Wilmington (Onslow Extension Site) – While its main campus is in Wilmington, UNCW has a strong presence in Jacksonville through its Onslow Extension. This site allows local students to pursue bachelor’s and some graduate degrees without leaving the city, especially in education, nursing, and social work.

East Carolina University (Onslow County Partnership) – ECU partners with local institutions to offer flexible, accessible degree programs to Jacksonville residents, especially in fields like nursing, education, and business. Distance learning and hybrid options are popular with military-connected and adult students in the area.

Craven Community College (Havelock Campus) – Serving surrounding regions including Jacksonville, Craven Community College’s Havelock Campus is known for its technical, aviation, and healthcare programs, offering convenient pathways for local students to begin or advance their education.

Cape Fear Community College (CFCC – North Campus) – While the main campus is in Wilmington, CFCC’s presence in the wider region provides Jacksonville students with access to popular programs in health sciences, technical education, and university transfer opportunities.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Jacksonville, NC

Mount Olive University at Jacksonville – This highly respected, private university maintains a campus in Jacksonville, making its flexible bachelor’s and master’s programs available to local students. Mount Olive is known for its supportive atmosphere and focus on adult and military learners, offering degrees in business, human services, and criminal justice.

Miller-Motte College – Jacksonville – This private career college is a popular option for students interested in hands-on, career-focused training. Programs include medical assisting, business administration, dental assisting, and skilled trades, perfect for those looking for a quick path into the workforce.

Columbia College – Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune – With a campus located on the base, Columbia College serves military members, veterans, and their families, providing associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degree opportunities in various fields, including business, criminal justice, and general studies.

Webster University – Camp Lejeune – Webster University operates a campus at Camp Lejeune, focusing on graduate programs in management, business administration, and information technology. They provide flexible evening and online classes ideal for working professionals and active-duty service members.

Liberty University (Online Support Center – Jacksonville/Onslow) – Liberty University provides strong online support in the Jacksonville region, making its extensive online undergraduate and graduate degrees accessible to local students, especially those needing a flexible schedule due to work or military service.

These institutions, both public and private, create a robust higher education network in Jacksonville, NC. Whether you’re interested in a technical career, a traditional four-year degree, or advancing in your current field, Jacksonville’s colleges and universities offer something for everyone. Start your educational journey today and unlock new opportunities for personal and professional growth right in your own community.

Jacksonville, NC may be a small city, but it’s home to several excellent high schools that are helping shape the leaders of tomorrow. Whether you're searching for strong public education options or a more personalized private school experience, Jacksonville offers students a supportive environment and access to a variety of academic and extracurricular opportunities. Here's a closer look at the top public and private high schools in the area.

Top Public High Schools in Jacksonville, NC

• Jacksonville High School – Known for its International Baccalaureate (IB) program, Jacksonville High provides rigorous academics and a wide range of extracurricular activities. Students here are encouraged to excel both in and out of the classroom.
• White Oak High School – This school has built a strong reputation in academics, athletics, and the arts. With a focus on college and career readiness, White Oak offers Honors and Advanced Placement (AP) courses.
• Northside High School – Northside stands out for its supportive faculty, strong sports programs, and community involvement. It offers a variety of academic tracks to suit different learning styles and goals.
• Richlands High School – Located just outside Jacksonville, Richlands High is known for its welcoming environment, skilled teachers, and focus on student development. It’s a great choice for families looking for a smaller, community-oriented school.
• Southwest High School – With a commitment to building future-ready students, Southwest High offers a range of dual enrollment, honors, and career-tech education options. The school motto, "Success is our tradition," reflects its culture of achievement.

Top Private High Schools in Jacksonville, NC

• Jacksonville Christian Academy – This faith-based school offers a nurturing environment with small class sizes. Focused on academic excellence and Christian values, it serves students from pre-K through high school.
• Liberty Christian Academy – A college-preparatory Christian school that emphasizes strong academics, leadership skills, and spiritual growth. Liberty Christian is praised for its close-knit community and dedicated teachers.
• Grace Christian School – Known for its individualized approach to education, Grace Christian provides a well-rounded curriculum grounded in faith-based teaching. The school's partnership with families creates a strong support system for students.
• Living Word Christian School – Offering a Christ-centered education, this school places a strong emphasis on character development and academic success. It’s a great option for families seeking moral guidance alongside scholastic achievement.
• Covenant Christian Academy – Small in size but big on personalized learning, Covenant Christian focuses on developing critical thinkers in a faith-based setting. From the arts to STEM programs, students are encouraged to explore their talents and interests.

No matter which path your student takes—public or private—Jacksonville offers high school options designed to inspire growth, resilience, and lifelong learning. Each of these schools is committed to helping students prepare for college, careers, and beyond.

While Jacksonville, North Carolina, may not be home to any major league professional sports teams like in larger cities, residents and visitors still enjoy a passionate local sports scene and close proximity to state-wide professional teams that fuel a shared spirit of pride and excitement.

Jacksonville is deeply rooted in military history as the home of Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, and that identity extends into the community’s sporting culture with strong support for regional and state teams.

Football – Nearby Carolina Panthers (NFL)

• Carolina Panthers – Though based in Charlotte, North Carolina, around 4 hours from Jacksonville, the Panthers are widely supported throughout the state. Established in 1993, the team has appeared in two Super Bowls (2003, 2015). Quarterbacks like Cam Newton and stars like Luke Kuechly have brought excitement to fans across the Carolinas, including Jacksonville sports enthusiasts.

Basketball – Charlotte Hornets (NBA)

• Charlotte Hornets – The Hornets are the state’s only NBA team, and fans from Jacksonville frequently tune in to support them. Though the team has yet to win an NBA title, its history includes legendary NBA figure Michael Jordan as a former owner. Rising stars and exciting rebuild efforts keep fans hopeful each season.

Baseball – Down East Wood Ducks & Carolina Mudcats (MiLB)

• Down East Wood Ducks – Based just under 90 minutes from Jacksonville in Kinston, the Wood Ducks are a Minor League Baseball team affiliated with the Texas Rangers. They play in the Carolina League and offer affordable, family-friendly action with future MLB stars on the roster.
• Carolina Mudcats – Around a two-hour drive away in Zebulon, the Mudcats are another high-profile MiLB team connected to the Milwaukee Brewers. Their stadium experience is popular for Jacksonville families seeking summer baseball outings.

Hockey – Carolina Hurricanes (NHL)

• Carolina Hurricanes – Based in Raleigh, the Hurricanes are under two hours from Jacksonville. This NHL team won their first Stanley Cup in 2006 and remains competitive in the league. Their passionate fan base extends to eastern NC, including Jacksonville, where hockey is gaining more attention.

Soccer – North Carolina FC & Charlotte FC (MLS and USL)

• Charlotte FC – Founded in 2019 and playing their inaugural MLS season in 2022, Charlotte FC represents North Carolina on a national soccer stage. The club quickly built a strong fan following, and support stretches to Jacksonville and beyond.
• North Carolina FC – Located in Cary and playing in the USL League One, this long-standing club has cultivated a loyal following. They’re actively developing players and increasing soccer’s popularity throughout North Carolina.

While Jacksonville may not yet host a major league franchise, its strategic location and lively community spirit ensure that residents are never far from exciting professional sports action. With access to nearby teams across every major league, sports fans in Jacksonville have plenty to cheer for year-round.

Jacksonville, North Carolina, is a vibrant city full of military history, scenic nature, and plenty of Southern charm. Whether you're a longtime local or planning your first visit, this coastal gem has some fun surprises up its sleeve. Here are 10 fun facts about Jacksonville, NC:

1. Home to Camp Lejeune – Jacksonville is most famous for housing Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, one of the largest Marine bases in the world.
2. Youngest City in America – Thanks to the large military community, Jacksonville has one of the youngest populations in the United States, with an average age in the mid-20s.
3. Waterways Galore – The city sits on the New River, and you’ll find miles of water perfect for kayaking, fishing, and boating.
4. Resilience After the Storm – Jacksonville has bounced back multiple times from hurricanes like Florence, showing its strong community spirit.
5. Freedom Fountain – A stunning tribute to local veterans, the Freedom Fountain lights up downtown and honors those who serve—day or night.
6. Montford Point Marines Museum – This unique museum celebrates the first African Americans to serve in the U.S. Marine Corps during World War II.
7. Leap of Faith – The Mike’s Farm zipline, located just outside the city, lets you soar high and get a bird’s-eye view of the countryside.
8. Big on Barbecue – Eastern North Carolina barbecue is a local favorite, and Jacksonville has some of the best pulled pork and tangy sauces around!
9. Hammocks Beach State Park – Just a short drive away, this hidden gem features untouched beaches and wild horses nearby on Bear Island.
10. Surprisingly Green – Jacksonville has more trees and public parks than you'd expect—perfect for picnics, hikes, and outdoor family fun.