Thinking About Moving To Palm Beach?
If you’re considering moving to Palm Beach in 2025, you’re not alone. Thousands of people each year—from New York, California, and Canada—are packing their bags and heading for Florida’s Gold Coast.
But here’s the big question: Should you move to Palm Beach or to Boca Raton, Palm Beach’s southern gem?
In this complete relocation guide, we’ll cover:
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Why people are moving to Palm Beach County right now
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Cost of living, taxes, and housing comparisons
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The lifestyle differences between Palm Beach, West Palm Beach, and Boca Raton
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The hidden costs buyers often miss
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Insider tips to make your move smooth
Why People Are Moving to Palm Beach County
Palm Beach County has become a magnet for relocation buyers. The main reasons?
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Tax Savings → Florida has no state income tax and strong homestead protections.
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Lifestyle → Beaches, boating, golf, luxury shopping, and A-rated schools.
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Work Flexibility → Remote work means more buyers can relocate without job restrictions.
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Climate → Year-round sunshine is pulling people from colder states.
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Value → For many, Florida real estate is more affordable per square foot than NYC, LA, or Toronto.
📊 Pro Tip: The Florida Chamber of Commerce reported that 1,200 people per day moved to Florida in 2024, with Palm Beach County among the top destinations.
Palm Beach vs. Boca Raton – Which Is Better for Relocation?
Palm Beach Island
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Ultra-luxury (mansions $20M–$100M+)
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Seasonal residents (“snowbirds”)
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Exclusive clubs (The Breakers, Bath & Tennis Club)
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Limited year-round community feel
West Palm Beach
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More affordable, urban vibe
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Growing financial & tech hub
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Walkable downtown, nightlife, Brightline train to Miami/Orlando
Boca Raton (the sweet spot ✅)
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Luxury meets livability → From gated communities like Boca Bridges, Lotus Palm, St. Andrews CC to waterfront estates in Royal Palm Yacht & CC
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Top schools: Addison Mizner, Calusa, Boca High
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Lifestyle balance → Beaches, Mizner Park shopping, golf, country clubs, family-friendly
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Proximity → Close to Palm Beach AND Fort Lauderdale/Miami airports
👉 For buyers relocating full-time, Boca Raton offers the most balance of value, community, and lifestyle.
Cost of Living & Housing in Palm Beach County
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Palm Beach Island median home price: $9M+
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Boca Raton median single-family home price: ~$795K
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West Palm Beach median home price: ~$475K
Hidden Costs When Moving to Palm Beach
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Insurance Costs
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Flood + hurricane insurance can be high, especially east of Federal Highway.
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Property Taxes
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Out-of-state buyers often underestimate Florida’s property tax recalculation after purchase.
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HOA Fees
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Gated communities and condos often come with $500–$2,000+ monthly dues.
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Special Assessments
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Florida’s new condo inspection laws are pushing HOA fees higher.
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👉 These are not deal-breakers, but you need a local real estate expert to navigate them.
Moving to Palm Beach From New York, California, and Canada
From New York
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Tax savings: Huge difference in income tax burden.
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Cost of living: More space and larger homes for less money.
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Direct flights: Easy access to JFK/LGA to Palm Beach International (PBI).
From California
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Lower taxes, fewer wildfires, and better cost-per-square-foot.
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Lifestyle swap: trading LA traffic for Boca beaches & golf courses.
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Popular among families + retirees leaving LA, SF, and San Diego.
From Canada
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Popular with Ontario & Quebec snowbirds.
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Canadians can buy property, but financing is stricter.
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Must understand visa/residency time limits (typically 6 months).
Best Neighborhoods for Relocation Buyers in Boca Raton
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Royal Palm Yacht & Country Club → Luxury waterfront estates
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Lotus Palm, Lotus Edge, Meravita & Boca Bridges → Modern new-construction gated homes
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St. Andrews Country Club → Premier golf community
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Golden Harbour → Walk-to-beach waterfront homes
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The Golden Triangle (East Boca) → Walkable to Mizner Park
How to Make Your Move Smooth
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Visit first (rent short-term, tour neighborhoods).
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Get an insurance + tax estimate before making offers.
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Work with a relocation-focused realtor (who knows HOA, flood zones, local lenders).
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Time your move → avoid peak hurricane season closings (July–Sept).
FAQ – Moving to Palm Beach
Q: Is Palm Beach good for families?
A: Yes—especially Boca Raton, with top-rated public/private schools and family-friendly neighborhoods.
Q: Can Canadians buy property in Palm Beach?
A: Yes, but financing may require higher down payments and tax planning.
Q: Is Boca Raton cheaper than Palm Beach Island?
A: Absolutely. Boca has homes at every price point, while Palm Beach Island is ultra-luxury only.
Final Thoughts – Moving to Palm Beach in 2025
Palm Beach County is booming—and whether you’re coming from New York, California, or Canada, you’ll find tax advantages, lifestyle perks, and communities for every budget.
But for full-time relocation, Boca Raton offers the best balance of value, community, and luxury.
📞 Ready to explore Boca Raton and Palm Beach real estate?
👉 Call/Text Ryan Jabbour at 561-599-3917 or visit www.ryanjabbour.com for your free relocation consultation.
The Jabbour Group At Keller Williams Realty Boca Raton
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or tax advice. Buyers should perform their own due diligence and consult professionals before making purchasing decisions.