Palm Beach
The crown jewel of American luxury living
By Scott Selleck — Licensed NJ/FL Real Estate Agent | 32+ Years in Bergen & Hudson Counties | The Selleck Group / KW City Views Realty
Last updated: June 2026
What Is It Like to Live in Palm Beach, FL?
Palm Beach is one of the most exclusive and prestigious communities in the United States, known for Worth Avenue, historic estates, world-class dining, and the highest property values in Palm Beach County. With approximately 9,400 residents and median home values of $1.7M+, it represents the pinnacle of South Florida luxury.
Palm Beach is a barrier island town that has been synonymous with American luxury since the Gilded Age. The island stretches approximately 16 miles from the Palm Beach Inlet to the south, with the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Lake Worth Lagoon (Intracoastal) to the west. The town's architectural character is defined by Mediterranean Revival estates, many designed by legendary architects like Addison Mizner and Maurice Fatio.
Worth Avenue — often called the "Rodeo Drive of the East Coast" — is the island's premier shopping and dining destination, with designer boutiques, fine dining, and a social scene that draws residents and visitors from around the world. The Breakers resort, built in 1896, remains the island's crown jewel and a center of social life.
For homebuyers, Palm Beach represents the ultra-luxury end of the market. Estates in the "Estate Section" span from the ocean to the Intracoastal, with private beach access, deep-water dockage, and manicured grounds. Condo options are available at lower price points, but the island's character is defined by its estate properties and the lifestyle they represent.
What Are the Best Neighborhoods in Palm Beach, FL?
Estate Section
The island's most prestigious area with ocean-to-Intracoastal estates, manicured gardens, and Gilded Age mansions. Homes typically $10M–$100M+.
Royal Poinciana Way
The heart of Palm Beach dining and shopping, with boutique restaurants, Worth Avenue access, and walkable luxury.
Lake Trail Area
Properties along the scenic Lake Trail walking/jogging path with Intracoastal views and proximity to The Breakers.
South of Sunset
The southern end of the island with a mix of renovated estates and newer construction. Slightly more accessible entry points into Palm Beach living.
Schools Serving Palm Beach, FL?
Palm Beach County Schools. Palm Beach Public School and The Palm Beach Academy serve the island. Palm Beach Day Academy is a premier private option.
What Do Homes Cost in Palm Beach, FL?
Median home values $1.7M+. Estate properties range from $5M to $100M+. Condos and smaller homes available at $800K–$2M. The highest price point in the county.
How Do You Get Around?
Car-dependent within the island. Bridge access to West Palm Beach via several causeways. Brightline and Tri-Rail in West Palm Beach. PBI airport 15 minutes west.
Where Are the Best Restaurants in Palm Beach, FL?
Buccan
Chef-driven American bistro on Royal Poinciana Way with creative share plates and a sophisticated atmosphere.
The Breakers — The Italian Restaurant
Elegant Italian dining at The Breakers resort with oceanfront views, handmade pastas, and impeccable service.
Café Boulud
Daniel Boulud's Palm Beach outpost in The Brazilian Court, offering refined French cuisine in an intimate courtyard setting.
Tablé d'Adèle
Upscale French restaurant with seasonal menus and an extensive wine program in the Royal Poinciana Plaza.
Palm Beach's dining scene is among the most refined in South Florida, with chef-driven restaurants, resort dining, and Worth Avenue's upscale culinary options.
What Parks and Recreation Does Palm Beach Offer?
Palm Beach Municipal Beach
Miles of pristine, well-maintained Atlantic beach with lifeguards, cabanas, and direct access from the island's residential streets.
Phipps Ocean Park
A beachfront park with a nature trail, sea turtle nesting areas, and picnic facilities. One of the quieter beach access points.
The Preservation Foundation of Palm Beach
Manicured public gardens and green spaces throughout the island, preserving the community's historic landscape character.
What Community Events Happen in Palm Beach, FL?
Palm Beach Holiday Boat Parade
The iconic annual boat parade along the Intracoastal, one of the most prestigious holiday traditions in South Florida.
Palm Beach International Boat Show
One of the top five boat shows in the U.S., held annually along the downtown West Palm Beach waterfront.
Palm Beach Food & Wine Festival
Annual culinary event featuring world-renowned chefs, wine tastings, and exclusive dining experiences.
Own a local business in Palm Beach? Get featured — submit here.
Palm Beach — Schools & Education
Schools serving the Palm Beach area span public, private, parochial, and early childhood options across multiple grade levels.
Public Schools
The School District of Palm Beach County serves this community. Schools in the district include:
Elementary Schools
- Palm Beach Public School — PK–5
For enrollment information and district details, visit School District of Palm Beach County.
Private Schools
- Palm Beach Day Academy — PK–12 | Premier independent preparatory school on the island. | Website: pbday.org
School ratings are sourced from GreatSchools.org as of 2026 and may change. Verify current data directly with the school district or GreatSchools.org. For Florida school grades, also reference the Florida Department of Education: https://www.fldoe.org/school-grades/.
Thinking About Palm Beach?
The pinnacle of South Florida luxury. Let's talk about what Palm Beach could look like for you.