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Jacksonville and Tampa LDS Real Estate Guide

Two of Florida’s largest cities are building LDS temples simultaneously. Jacksonville and Tampa, both with temples under construction, represent the most significant dual LDS community investment in the Southeast. Florida’s no state income tax, warm climate, and growing LDS communities create a compelling case for LDS families considering the Sunshine State.

Jacksonville Florida Temple

The Jacksonville Florida Temple is under construction in Jacksonville, Florida’s largest city by land area. Approximately 29,000 square feet. Jacksonville’s LDS community has been served by the now-closed-for-renovation Orlando Florida Temple and before that by the Atlanta Georgia Temple — long drives for a growing population. The Jacksonville temple will dramatically improve temple access for communities across Northeast Florida. Real estate: Jacksonville median $280,000-$340,000 (2025) — significantly more affordable than Tampa or Orlando. For LDS families: Jacksonville’s strong military community (NAS Jacksonville, NAS Mayport, Marine Corps Blount Island Command) overlaps meaningfully with LDS membership demographics.

Tampa Florida Temple

The Tampa Florida Temple groundbreaking was held August 23, 2025 (presided over by Elder Neil L. Andersen). Located in Riverview, southeast of Tampa. Approximately 29,000 square feet. The Tampa Bay area LDS community spans Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, and Hernando counties. Real estate: Tampa Bay median home prices $380,000-$450,000 (2025, off pandemic peaks). Riverview specifically, where the temple is located, is a rapidly growing suburb with newer construction and active LDS ward communities. Note: Elder Neil L. Andersen and his wife Sister Kathy Andersen have personal connection to Tampa as the city where she grew up and where they raised their family.

Florida LDS Community Character

Florida LDS communities have mission field character: smaller wards than Utah, longer pre-temple drive times historically, but growing in active membership and community infrastructure. The dual temple construction in Jacksonville and Tampa transforms two significant Florida metros from long-drive temple communities to local temple communities. This is a rare and meaningful shift. LDS families in Jacksonville and Tampa who have made the 3-4 hour round trip to the Fort Lauderdale or Atlanta temple will soon have a temple within 20 minutes. The community cohesion impact of that shift is significant.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an LDS temple in Tampa or Jacksonville?

Both are under construction. Tampa Florida Temple: groundbreaking August 23, 2025, located in Riverview. Jacksonville Florida Temple: under construction. Before dedication, members attend Fort Lauderdale Florida Temple or nearby alternatives.

What are home prices in Jacksonville for LDS families?

Jacksonville median $280,000-$340,000 (2025) — one of the most affordable major Florida metro markets. More affordable than Tampa, Orlando, or South Florida, with a growing LDS community and temple under construction.

What is the Florida state income tax advantage?

Florida has no state income tax. On $300,000 household income, this saves approximately $13,950/year vs Utah (4.65%) and $30,000-$40,000/year vs California (top rate 13.3%). Significant long-term financial advantage for high-income LDS professionals.