Palm Beach

Welcome to Palm Beach, FL

Palm Beach stands as one of America's most storied and exclusive residential enclaves, where Gilded Age grandeur meets modern luxury living. This barrier island community has served as a winter retreat for the nation's wealthiest families since railroad magnate Henry Flagler first transformed its tropical landscape in the 1890s.

Today, Palm Beach maintains its position as the "Gold Standard" of Florida's Gold Coast. The town's strict building regulations, immaculate streetscapes swept daily at dawn, and towering Ficus hedges protecting palatial estates create an atmosphere of refined elegance that has attracted captains of industry, international royalty, and cultural luminaries for over a century.

With a year-round population of approximately 9,200 residents and a median age near 70, Palm Beach offers a distinctive blend of old-money sophistication and contemporary coastal living. The community's character is defined by its Mediterranean Revival architecture—largely influenced by legendary architect Addison Mizner—world-class shopping on Worth Avenue, and an active social calendar anchored by charity galas and club memberships.

At least 58 billionaires currently own property on the island, according to Forbes data, making Palm Beach one of the highest concentrations of ultra-high-net-worth individuals anywhere in the world.

Location & Geography

Palm Beach occupies an 18-mile-long barrier island positioned between the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Lake Worth Lagoon (part of the Intracoastal Waterway) to the west. The island measures approximately 4.2 square miles of land area, never exceeding three-quarters of a mile in width and narrowing to just 500 feet in some sections.

Geologically, the island sits atop a sand-covered ridge of coquina and coral reef limestone—the dominant topographical feature that acts as a natural seaward barrier. This Atlantic ridge provides the elevated foundation for the town's most prestigious estates.

Key Geographic Features

• Northern Boundary: Lake Worth Inlet separating Palm Beach from Singer Island
• Southern Boundary: Lake Worth Beach and South Palm Beach
• Distance from Miami: Approximately 65 miles north
• Distance from Fort Lauderdale: 45 miles north

Three bridges connect Palm Beach to the mainland: the Flagler Memorial Bridge (north), Royal Park Bridge (central), and Southern Boulevard Bridge (south). These crossings provide access to West Palm Beach's urban amenities while maintaining the island's secluded character.

The entire island falls within Evacuation Zone B, with hurricane evacuations ordered when storms threaten the area. The coastal location experiences 93% flood risk over a 30-year period, a critical consideration for property owners and insurers alike.

Real Estate Market Snapshot

The Town of Palm Beach operates in an entirely different stratosphere from broader Palm Beach County metrics. While the county's median home price hovers around $615,000-$647,000, Palm Beach proper commands a median sale price near $5.5 million, with typical home values around $2 million.

Current Market Conditions (2025)

The luxury segment continues to thrive, driven by ongoing tax migration from high-tax states like New York, New Jersey, and California. Nearly 90,000 high-net-worth residents have relocated to the Palm Beach area since 2020, frequently making seven-figure, all-cash offers. Properties on Billionaire's Row along South Ocean Boulevard regularly trade in the $50-200+ million range, with Ken Griffin's estate reportedly valued at $450 million.

The market has shifted toward balance in 2025, with increased inventory giving buyers more negotiating leverage. However, turnkey waterfront properties and move-in-ready estates continue to command premium prices and often sell at or above asking price.

Relocation Tips

Moving to Palm Beach requires thoughtful preparation beyond typical relocation logistics. The island's unique character, seasonal rhythms, and social infrastructure demand advance planning.

1. Establish Florida Residency Early: File for homestead exemption before March 1 to maximize property tax savings. Florida's lack of state income tax is a primary draw, but residency must be properly documented.
2. Secure Club Memberships: Waitlists for prestigious clubs like the Everglades Club, Bath and Tennis Club, Sailfish Club, and Palm Beach Country Club can extend for years. Begin the application process well before your move.
3. Engage Local Specialists: Work with real estate professionals who specialize in Palm Beach Island. Many properties trade privately without public listing, and relationships matter significantly in this market.
4. Plan for Seasonal Dynamics: "The Season" runs from Thanksgiving through Easter, when the population swells and social calendars fill with charity galas. Summer months are quieter, with many residents departing for cooler climates.
5. Budget for Insurance: Florida homeowners insurance averages $5,700+ annually—among the nation's highest. Flood insurance is essential given the coastal location and updated FEMA flood maps placing over 16,000 Palm Beach County properties in high-risk zones.
6. Research School Options: If relocating with children, apply to private schools like Palm Beach Day Academy early—demand far exceeds available slots.

Factors to Consider When Buying

Purchasing property in Palm Beach requires due diligence beyond standard real estate considerations. The island's unique characteristics create both opportunities and obligations for buyers.

1. Flood Zone Classification: Verify your property's FEMA flood zone designation. New flood maps effective in 2025 have reclassified thousands of properties into higher-risk zones, potentially requiring mandatory flood insurance and increased premiums.
2. Hurricane Preparedness: Evaluate wind mitigation features including impact-resistant windows, reinforced roofing, and storm shutters. These features provide premium discounts up to 45% and genuine protection.
3. Building Restrictions: Palm Beach maintains strict architectural guidelines and no manufacturing operations. Renovation and new construction require town approval, preserving the community's aesthetic character but adding time to improvement projects.
4. Seawall and Dock Conditions: For waterfront properties, inspect seawall integrity and permitting for dock structures. Erosion is an ongoing concern along certain stretches of coastline.
5. Private Sale Opportunities: Many of Palm Beach's finest properties never appear on public listings. Building relationships with established local agents provides access to off-market opportunities.
6. Cash Position Advantages: Cash dominates the luxury segment, shielding buyers from mortgage rate volatility and strengthening negotiating positions.
7. Insurance Availability: Secure insurance quotes before finalizing purchase. Some insurers have reduced coastal exposure, limiting options for certain properties.

Factors to Consider When Selling

Selling in Palm Beach's current market requires strategic positioning. With inventory up 24-30% year-over-year across Palm Beach County and days on market extending, presentation and pricing are paramount.

1. Price Precisely: The market has shifted toward balance. Overpriced properties linger for months while competitively priced homes attract serious buyers. Review recent comparable sales and price to current market conditions, not peak pandemic valuations.
2. Modernize Strategic Elements: Affluent buyers pay premiums for move-in-ready homes but skip dated properties. Focus improvements on kitchens, primary suites, and outdoor living spaces. Newly renovated homes sell within weeks while outdated properties sit for 200+ days.
3. Stage Professionally: Palm Beach buyers expect presentation matching the island's elegance. Professional staging, photography, and videography are essential investments.
4. Time Your Listing: November historically sees the fastest sales and highest prices. Listing during "The Season" (December-April) captures peak buyer traffic from seasonal residents and relocating northerners.
5. Consider Incentives: In a slower market, rate buydowns and closing cost contributions can differentiate your property without headline price reductions.
6. Document Hurricane Resilience: Provide wind mitigation inspection reports highlighting protective features. These documents reassure buyers about ongoing insurance costs and property durability.
7. Expect Longer Timelines: Average days on market in Palm Beach proper has extended to 186 days. Plan accordingly and maintain patience through the selling process.

Dining and Entertainment

Palm Beach's culinary scene blends old-guard institutions with contemporary culinary excellence. The island supports an impressive concentration of upscale dining given its compact size, with several establishments earning national recognition.

• Café Boulud: Located within the historic Brazilian Court Hotel at 301 Australian Avenue, this Forbes four-star restaurant showcases Michelin-starred Chef Daniel Boulud's French-American cuisine. The courtyard terrace remains a longtime favorite for locals.
• Buccan: James Beard-nominated Chef Clay Conley's progressive American grill at 350 South County Road features inventive small plates in a casually sophisticated setting. Featured in the 2025 Florida Michelin Guide, Buccan defines contemporary Palm Beach dining.
• Ta-boo: A Palm Beach institution since 1941 at 221 Worth Avenue. As locals say, "if you were not seen at Ta-boo, you were not seen in town." This American bistro anchors Worth Avenue's social scene.
• The Breakers Restaurants: The iconic resort houses 10 dining venues ranging from oceanfront casual to black-tie elegance. HMF holds one of only three Wine Spectator Grand Awards given since the program's inception.
• Pizza al Fresco: A beloved Italian spot in Via Mizner since 1987, known for its lobster salad and charming courtyard setting. A more relaxed option along Worth Avenue.
• The Leopard Lounge: At The Chesterfield Palm Beach (363 Cocoanut Row), this popular bar and restaurant features live music nightly, drawing a sophisticated crowd.

Cultural Entertainment

The Society of the Four Arts offers an art gallery, concert hall, botanical garden, and public libraries. Worth Avenue galleries include DTR Modern, Evey Fine Art, and the John H. Surovek Gallery. The Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts sits just across the bridge in West Palm Beach, hosting Broadway tours, symphony performances, and world-class entertainment.

Parks and Recreation

Despite its compact size, Palm Beach offers diverse recreational opportunities from pristine beaches to championship golf courses. The island's outdoor amenities complement its cultural sophistication.

Beaches and Parks

• Phipps Ocean Park: A local gem featuring mature shade trees, grassy picnic areas, tiki huts with ocean views, and boardwalk beach access. Ideal for shell hunting and snorkeling in quieter conditions than crowded neighboring beaches.
• Mid-Town Municipal Beach: Steps from Worth Avenue, this popular beach offers pristine sand, clear Gulf Stream waters, and convenient access to shopping and dining.
• G. Kreusler Park: A smaller park with boardwalk beach access, perfect for swimming or searching for sea glass.
• Lake Trail: A 5.2-mile waterfront path hugging the Intracoastal Waterway, offering spectacular views of mega-yachts, historic estates, and the West Palm Beach skyline. Popular for walking, jogging, and cycling.

Golf and Recreation

• Palm Beach Par 3 Golf Course: 18 holes nestled between the ocean and Intracoastal Waterway in a stunning tropical setting. The Key West-style clubhouse and Al Fresco restaurant offer spectacular water views.
• The Ocean Course at The Breakers: A championship course offering members and resort guests an exclusive golfing experience.
• Private Club Recreation: The Everglades Club, Bath and Tennis Club, and Palm Beach Country Club offer tennis, swimming, and social facilities for members.

Wellness and Spa

The Spa at The Breakers ranks among North America's top 25 spas, featuring luxe indoor-outdoor treatment suites. Eau Spa at Eau Palm Beach Resort offers an indulgent retreat with champagne service in swinging chairs over reflecting pools.

Annual Events and Festivals

Palm Beach's social calendar peaks during "The Season" from December through April, when a steady stream of charity galas, cultural events, and sporting competitions draw residents and visitors alike.

Signature Events

• Palm Beach Food & Wine Festival (December): This 18-year tradition in partnership with Wine Spectator features 22+ culinary events across four days. Celebrity chefs including Daniel Boulud, Robert Irvine, and Clay Conley showcase their talents. The Grand Tasting presents 50+ restaurants and 100+ wineries—all wines rated 90+ points.
• Palm Beach Polo Season (January-April): The National Polo Center in nearby Wellington hosts the nation's premier polo tournaments including the U.S. Open Polo Championship. Sunday matches draw spectators for high-goal competition and elegant tailgating.
• Winter Equestrian Festival (January-April): Wellington International hosts 13 weeks of world-class show jumping, drawing riders from 52 countries. Saturday Night Lights Grand Prix features competition, entertainment, and 100+ vendors before 10,000 spectators.
• Charity Gala Season: From November through April, dozens of black-tie fundraising events fill the calendar, supporting causes from healthcare to the arts. The Palm Beach Charity Register chronicles the season's social highlights.
• Race of Hope 5K: Annual run/walk benefiting the Hope for Depression Research Foundation, raising approximately $400,000 for depression research.
• Worth Avenue Events: Historical walking tours operate year-round, with seasonal celebrations and community gatherings along the iconic shopping street.

Schools and Education

Palm Beach families have access to Florida's oldest and most prestigious independent schools, though demand far exceeds available enrollment. Early application and established community connections significantly improve admission prospects.

On-Island Education

• Palm Beach Day Academy: Established in 1921 as Florida's first independent school, PBDA operates a Lower Campus (Pre-K through 3rd grade) on the Intracoastal in West Palm Beach and an Upper Campus (4th-9th grade) on the island—the only top-tier private school on Palm Beach. The school received an $18 million gift in 2022 from Tiger Global co-founder Scott Shleifer, reflecting its prestige among the area's wealthiest families.
• Palm Beach Public Elementary: The town's public school serving kindergarten through fifth grade.

Nearby Private Schools

• Rosarian Academy: Founded in 1925 by the Adrian Dominican Sisters, this independent Catholic school in West Palm Beach serves students from 18 months through 8th grade. Located on the Intracoastal Waterway, Rosarian offers Montessori early childhood programs, rigorous academics, and complimentary bus service throughout Palm Beach County.
• The Greene School: Founded in 2016 by real estate entrepreneur Jeff Greene, this newer addition offers Pre-K through 10th grade with modern facilities including aeronautics programs and chef-prepared lunches.
• Oxbridge Academy: Founded by William Koch in 2011, this West Palm Beach school serves grades 6-12 and has rapidly grown into an educational powerhouse.
• The Benjamin School: Serving Pre-K through 12th grade in nearby Palm Beach Gardens with strong academics and athletics.

Competition for enrollment at elite schools has intensified as population growth continues. Parents are advised to begin the application process 12-18 months before desired enrollment, cultivate community relationships, and explore multiple options simultaneously.

Commute and Accessibility

Palm Beach's island location creates unique transportation dynamics. Three bridges connect to the mainland, and proximity to Palm Beach International Airport provides convenient air access.

Air Travel

• Palm Beach International Airport (PBI): Located just 4 miles from Palm Beach, PBI welcomes 8+ million travelers annually with 200+ daily flights on 12 major airlines. Direct exits from I-95 provide immediate access. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International (FLL) and Miami International (MIA) offer additional options.
• Private Aviation: PBI accommodates private jet traffic, and several FBOs serve the area's substantial private aviation demand.

Ground Transportation

• Bridge Access: The Flagler Memorial Bridge, Royal Park Bridge, and Southern Boulevard Bridge connect Palm Beach to West Palm Beach. Traffic flows smoothly except during peak season events.
• Brightline: High-speed rail service from downtown West Palm Beach connects to Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, and Orlando in climate-controlled comfort with premium amenities.
• Tri-Rail: Commuter rail connecting West Palm Beach to Miami with 18 stations. Free shuttle service links the West Palm Beach station to PBI.
• On-Island Mobility: Palm Beach's compact size makes walking and cycling practical. The Lake Trail provides car-free routes, and many residents navigate the island by golf cart.

Typical Commute Times

Why People Love Palm Beach

Palm Beach captivates residents through a combination of natural beauty, refined culture, and uncompromising quality that few communities can match.

• Timeless Elegance: The Mediterranean Revival architecture, manicured landscapes, and strict aesthetic standards preserve a sense of old-world sophistication. Streets swept daily at dawn, towering Ficus hedges, and royal palm-lined boulevards create an atmosphere of permanent elegance.
• Exceptional Climate: Year-round tropical weather, Gulf Stream-warmed waters, and abundant sunshine make outdoor living a daily pleasure. The island averages 230+ days of sunshine annually.
• Privacy and Security: The island's exclusive character, gated estates, and small-town atmosphere provide privacy rarely found in major metropolitan areas. Residents include business titans, celebrities, and prominent families who value discretion.
• World-Class Amenities: From Worth Avenue's designer boutiques to The Breakers' legendary hospitality, Palm Beach delivers exceptional quality in every experience. Dining, shopping, and recreation meet the highest standards.
• Active Social Scene: The charity gala circuit, private club life, and seasonal events create abundant opportunities for meaningful social connection among like-minded residents.
• Tax Advantages: Florida's lack of state income tax, combined with homestead exemption benefits, provides significant financial advantages for relocated residents.
• Walkable Character: Despite its exclusivity, Palm Beach maintains a walkable, small-town feel. Residents stroll Worth Avenue, bike the Lake Trail, and wave to neighbors—a genuine community within a privileged setting.

Most Coveted Streets and Estates

Palm Beach real estate reaches its apex along several legendary addresses where historic estates and contemporary mega-mansions command the world's highest prices.

Billionaire's Row – South Ocean Boulevard

The stretch of South Ocean Boulevard known as "Billionaire's Row" represents the ultimate in American residential real estate. This ultra-exclusive corridor of oceanfront properties features estates ranging from $50 million to over $200 million, with private beach access, expansive grounds, and state-of-the-art security.

Notable recent listings include a $205 million compound at 1491 N. Ocean Boulevard—a 14,469-square-foot Mediterranean palace on 4 acres with 230 feet of ocean frontage—and an $88 million estate at 1540 South Ocean Boulevard featuring a private tunnel to the beach.

Premier Addresses

• South Ocean Boulevard: The crown jewel of Palm Beach addresses. Oceanfront estates here routinely trade for eight figures, with the most exceptional properties exceeding $100 million. Ken Griffin's compound reportedly anchors valuations near $450 million.
• North Ocean Boulevard: The northern extension continues the oceanfront prestige with equally impressive estates and slightly more proximity to the Lake Worth Inlet.
• Worth Avenue: Beyond its shopping fame, Worth Avenue addresses carry tremendous cachet. Properties here blend residential luxury with the island's commercial heart.
• El Bravo Way: Located in the prestigious Estate Section, this quintessential Palm Beach street epitomizes the island's architectural heritage with grand Mediterranean estates.
• The Sea Streets: A collection of streets in the Estate Section offering seaside proximity, architectural diversity, and a close-knit community feel moments from the Atlantic.
• Everglades Island: An exclusive enclave within Palm Beach featuring grand waterfront homes with Intracoastal access, lush tropical landscaping, and panoramic water views.

Historic Landmarks

Whitehall (the Flagler Museum), Mar-a-Lago, and numerous Addison Mizner-designed estates anchor Palm Beach's architectural heritage. These properties—and their private neighbors—define the island's identity as America's premier winter resort community.

Who is Palm Beach, FL For?

Palm Beach isn't simply a place to live—it's a lifestyle choice that suits certain individuals and families exceptionally well. Understanding whether Palm Beach aligns with your priorities helps ensure a successful transition. Palm Beach, FL is ideal for:

• Ultra-High-Net-Worth Individuals: With median home prices exceeding $5 million and a luxury-focused lifestyle, Palm Beach caters to those with significant financial resources. The concentration of billionaires creates a peer community for the exceptionally wealthy.
• Tax-Conscious Relocators: Residents fleeing high-tax states like New York, California, and New Jersey find Florida's zero state income tax particularly compelling. Palm Beach offers lifestyle quality matching their former homes.
• Seasonal Residents: The traditional "snowbird" pattern remains strong. Many maintain primary residences elsewhere while escaping to Palm Beach during the winter social season (December-April).
• Privacy-Seeking Families: Those desiring elite education options, a safe environment, and discretion find Palm Beach's combination of prestigious schools, low crime, and privacy-respecting culture appealing.
• Philanthropically-Minded Residents: The charity gala circuit and culture of giving attract those who want to engage socially while supporting meaningful causes.
• Active Retirees: With a median resident age near 70, Palm Beach supports an active senior lifestyle featuring golf, tennis, cultural programming, and an engaged social scene.
• Those Valuing Tradition: Palm Beach rewards those who appreciate established social structures, dress codes, club memberships, and the rhythms of seasonal society.

The Bottom Line

Palm Beach remains America's quintessential luxury enclave—a place where Gilded Age traditions blend with contemporary wealth, where exceptional quality is simply expected, and where a rare combination of beauty, privacy, and privilege creates an unmatched residential experience. For those who belong, Palm Beach offers not just a home, but membership in one of the world's most exclusive communities.