While car inventory is tightening across much of the country, Jacksonville and the broader Northeast Florida region are seeing an increase in available vehicles, a welcome shift for local buyers. But according to a new analysis by Cars.com, more choices don’t always translate to smoother deals.
We spoke to car expert Aaron Bragman, Detroit Bureau Chief at Cars.com. Here’s what you need to know before shopping for a car in the Jacksonville market, and how to increase your chances of getting the best deal.
“Dealers in Jacksonville are betting on a different mix of vehicles — more luxury, higher-end inventory — and so far, it’s selling well,” Bragman said.
The end of the month and the end of the year are generally good times to find deals, as dealers aim to meet quotas and clear out older models as 2026 models enter the market.
But in Jacksonville, prices are holding steady, Bragman said. “If you buy now or you buy later, the prices are not coming down right now, so waiting is a possibility, but you’re not guaranteed that you’re going to get a better price on this, unless you’re really holding out for something special.”
Right now, local dealers aren’t offering major discounts or incentives, adding that customers’ best shot at a deal is to shop around, comparing different vehicles and offers from multiple dealerships.
Dealers in Jacksonville currently have a strong mix of vehicles that local buyers are actively looking for. According to Bragman, this is evident in how quickly used cars are selling in the area. “While new and used car inventory is up locally, used vehicles tend to sell 11 days faster than the national average.”
That means if you’re hunting for a bargain, success will likely come down to the customer doing the research —comparing prices, checking multiple dealerships, and putting in the legwork to find the best offer.
Whether you’re ready to buy now or planning, here are some key strategies for car buyers in Jacksonville based on expert advice from Cars.com‘s Aaron Bragman.
Here’s some things to keep in mind while scouting for your next car:
The most in-demand brands locally are Honda, Lexus, and Ford, according to the Cars.com analysis. One model stands above the rest: the Lexus RX 350, which is the only vehicle to appear on both the fastest-selling new and used lists.
That crossover appeal highlights the city’s mix of practical and luxury preferences, and shows that shoppers are willing to pay for reliability and comfort.
According to the Cars.com survey, while Florida ranks second in the nation for electric vehicle (EV) registrations, Jacksonville is lagging. EV adoption in the city is noticeably lower than in other major metro areas across the state.
The exact reason isn’t clear, but limited charging infrastructure and the city’s sprawling size — which often means longer driving distances — could be contributing factors.
Jacksonville’s car market is unusual but stable. Prices are not spiking, and inventory is strong, especially for luxury vehicles. If you’re looking for a specific model or trim, there’s a good chance it’s available locally, but finding a deal will require effort.
So, should you buy a car now? If you need a car now, experts say it’s a decent time to buy. However, if you can wait, keep an eye on local deals through the end of the year, especially as 2025 model-year vehicles begin to get discounted to make way for 2026 inventory.

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