Palm Beach County is one of the most popular relocation destinations in the country, with 47 miles of Atlantic coastline, 39 municipalities and a wide range of lifestyles, from quiet beach towns to vibrant downtowns. This guide gives you the big picture, with a focus on northern Palm Beach County, where I work every day.
Palm Beach County at a Glance
- Population: 1,492,191 (2020 Census), the third-most populous county in Florida
- Land area: about 1,970 square miles, the second-largest county in Florida by land area
- Municipalities: 39
- County seat: West Palm Beach
- Coastline: about 47 miles of Atlantic beaches
- Airport: Palm Beach International
Why People Move to Palm Beach County
- No state income tax and homestead benefits for primary residences.
- Coastal lifestyle: beaches, inlets, the Intracoastal and year-round boating and golf.
- Variety: 39 municipalities offer everything from small villages to larger cities.
- Growing economy: the School District of Palm Beach County is the largest employer, alongside healthcare, aerospace, finance and professional services.
Homes and Neighborhoods
Northern Palm Beach County is a favorite with relocating buyers. Explore my guides to Jupiter, Tequesta, Abacoa, Juno Beach, North Palm Beach and Palm Beach Gardens, plus my relocation guides for Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, Tequesta, North Palm Beach and Juno Beach.
The Palm Beach County Real Estate Market
For a countywide view of jobs, real estate and capital, read my State of the County 2026 recap, and see my market updates for town-level numbers.
Costs of Owning a Home
- No state income tax: Florida does not tax personal income.
- Homestead exemption: if the home is your permanent residence as of January 1, apply with the Palm Beach County Property Appraiser by March 1. Homestead properties also receive the Save Our Homes cap, which limits annual assessment increases to 3% or the change in the Consumer Price Index, whichever is lower.
- Second homes and investment property: no homestead exemption, with annual assessment increases capped at 10% for non-school taxes.
- Insurance: rates depend on location, flood zone, elevation, roof age and construction, so get quotes before you are under contract.
New Resident Checklist
- Get a Florida driver license within 30 days of establishing residency.
- Title and register your vehicle with Florida insurance; the state motor vehicle agency sets a 10-day window after establishing residency.
- File for homestead exemption by March 1.
- Check school assignments for your address with the School District of Palm Beach County.
- Plan for hurricane season, June 1 through November 30.
For more detail, see the full checklist in my Moving to Jupiter, Florida guide.
Getting Around
I-95 and Florida’s Turnpike run the length of the county, with US-1 and A1A along the coast. Palm Beach International Airport is in West Palm Beach.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many cities are in Palm Beach County? The county has 39 municipalities.
What is the population of Palm Beach County? 1,492,191 residents in the 2020 Census, the third-most populous county in Florida.
Where should I live in Palm Beach County? It depends on your lifestyle and budget. Northern Palm Beach County, including Jupiter, Tequesta, Juno Beach, North Palm Beach and Palm Beach Gardens, is popular for its beaches, boating and golf. Start with my neighborhood guides.
Let’s Talk About Your Move
I help buyers relocating to Palm Beach County and northern Palm Beach County find the right home and understand the numbers before they buy. Call (561) 632-7705 or email slevine@ipre.com.
Explore the area: all neighborhood guides · Jupiter vs. Palm Beach Gardens
Sources
- Palm Beach County, Florida
- Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles: New Residents
- Palm Beach County Tax Collector: Welcome Guide
General information, not tax or legal advice. Stefan Levine, P.A. | Illustrated Properties LLC | License SL3228095
