West Palm Beach

Overview for West Palm Beach, FL

115,877 people live in West Palm Beach, where the median age is 40.4 and the average individual income is $36,247. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

115,877

Total Population

40.4 years

Median Age

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

$36,247

Average individual Income

Welcome to West Palm Beach, FL

West Palm Beach, FL, is a vibrant and upscale city located along the southeastern coast of Florida, directly across the Intracoastal Waterway from Palm Beach. As the county seat of Palm Beach County, this bustling urban hub offers a perfect blend of waterfront beauty, cultural richness, and modern conveniences. Known for its lively arts scene, luxury shopping districts, and year-round tropical climate, West Palm Beach attracts both full-time residents and seasonal visitors. The city features a mix of historic homes, contemporary condos, and waterfront estates, catering to a wide range of lifestyles. Its central location provides easy access to stunning beaches, outdoor recreational activities, and world-class entertainment, making it a prime destination for both living and vacationing.

 

History

West Palm Beach was officially incorporated in 1894, making it one of the oldest cities in South Florida. The city owes much of its early development to railroad magnate Henry Flagler, who extended the Florida East Coast Railway to the area, transforming it into a major economic hub. Initially designed as a working-class community to support the luxurious island of Palm Beach, West Palm Beach soon flourished with its own identity, attracting businesses, residents, and tourists.

 

The city saw significant growth during the 1920s Florida land boom, with Mediterranean Revival and Mission-style architecture becoming prevalent. Over the decades, West Palm Beach evolved into a cultural and commercial center, with revitalization efforts in the 1990s and 2000s further enhancing its appeal. Today, it stands as a dynamic and diverse city, blending historical charm with contemporary luxury.

 

Local Culture

West Palm Beach boasts a rich cultural scene that reflects its diverse population and coastal influence. The city is home to a thriving arts and entertainment district, with venues like the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, Norton Museum of Art, and Clematis Street serving as cultural landmarks.

 

The lifestyle here is a fusion of laid-back coastal living and sophisticated urban energy. Residents enjoy an active outdoor scene, with boating, fishing, and waterfront dining being integral parts of daily life. The annual SunFest, Florida’s largest waterfront music and art festival, showcases West Palm Beach’s commitment to creativity and community engagement.

 

The local culinary scene is equally impressive, offering everything from fresh seafood to high-end dining experiences. With its blend of art, history, and coastal charm, West Palm Beach embodies the quintessential South Florida lifestyle.

 

Local Attractions

West Palm Beach is home to a variety of attractions that cater to residents and visitors alike. Whether you’re interested in arts, nature, or family-friendly entertainment, the city offers something for everyone.

  • The Square (formerly CityPlace) – A vibrant open-air shopping, dining, and entertainment district in the heart of downtown. It features luxury boutiques, high-end restaurants, and an interactive fountain for families to enjoy.
  • Clematis Street – The cultural and nightlife hub of West Palm Beach, offering a mix of restaurants, bars, art galleries, and live music venues.
  • Norton Museum of Art – One of Florida’s most prestigious art museums, featuring an extensive collection of American, European, and Chinese art, along with contemporary exhibitions.
  • Kravis Center for the Performing Arts – A premier venue for Broadway shows, concerts, ballet performances, and more.
  • Manatee Lagoon – A free, eco-friendly attraction where visitors can observe Florida manatees in their natural habitat, especially during the cooler months.
  • Mounts Botanical Garden – The largest and oldest public botanical garden in Palm Beach County, showcasing a diverse collection of tropical plants and themed gardens.
  • Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society – Home to over 500 animals, this family-friendly attraction emphasizes conservation and education.
  • Lion Country Safari – Florida’s only drive-through safari park, featuring free-roaming animals, interactive experiences, and amusement rides.
  • Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens – A hidden gem featuring monumental sculptures set within a lush, tropical landscape.

Dining and Entertainment

West Palm Beach boasts a dynamic food scene and exciting entertainment options that reflect its coastal charm and cosmopolitan energy.

 

Top Restaurants & Cafés

  • Okeechobee Steakhouse – A legendary steakhouse serving high-quality cuts since 1947, making it one of the oldest steakhouses in Florida.
  • RH Rooftop Restaurant – Located in the luxurious Restoration Hardware building, this rooftop dining experience offers a chic ambiance and stunning city views.
  • Hullabaloo – A trendy gastropub on Clematis Street known for its craft cocktails, gourmet small plates, and lively atmosphere.
  • The Regional – Celebrated for its upscale Southern cuisine, this restaurant is led by award-winning chef Lindsay Autry.
  • Avocado Grill – A hotspot for farm-to-table dishes, seafood, and creative tapas, complemented by a stylish, airy interior.
  • Buccan (on nearby Palm Beach Island) – A must-visit for foodies, serving innovative American cuisine in a lively setting.

Nightlife & Bars

  • The Blind Monk – A sophisticated wine and tapas bar offering a curated selection of international wines and small plates.
  • E.R. Bradley’s Saloon – A waterfront bar and restaurant with live music, a casual atmosphere, and stunning views of the Intracoastal Waterway.
  • Pawn Shop – A unique, retro-themed nightclub and lounge, complete with a dance floor and vibrant neon decor.
  • Roxy’s Pub & Rooftop – A lively Irish pub featuring an open-air rooftop bar with panoramic city views.
  • Voltaire – An intimate music venue hosting live bands, DJs, and themed entertainment nights.

Live Entertainment & Events

  • SunFest – Florida’s largest waterfront music and art festival, attracting major performers and thousands of attendees every year.
  • Meyer Amphitheater – A scenic outdoor venue along the waterfront that hosts free concerts, community events, and food festivals.
  • iTHINK Financial Amphitheatre – A large, open-air concert venue located in West Palm Beach, hosting national and international touring acts.
  • Clematis by Night – A free weekly outdoor concert series featuring live music, food trucks, and a vibrant crowd.

Parks and Recreation

West Palm Beach is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wealth of parks, nature preserves, and recreational facilities. Whether you're looking for a scenic walking trail, a family-friendly park, or a waterfront adventure, this city has something for everyone.

Top Parks & Green Spaces

  • Dreher Park – One of the largest parks in West Palm Beach, featuring walking trails, picnic areas, fishing lakes, and a playground. It is also home to the Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society.
  • Howard Park – A popular green space near downtown with a dog park, sports courts, and a large community center offering fitness classes and events.
  • Grassy Waters Preserve – A 23-square-mile wetland ecosystem that provides kayaking, boardwalk trails, and guided nature tours. It’s a great spot for birdwatching and wildlife photography.
  • Okeeheelee Park – Located just outside West Palm Beach, this massive 1,700-acre park has lakes for kayaking, boat rentals, golf courses, BMX tracks, and equestrian trails.
  • Currie Park – A scenic waterfront park with a boat ramp, fishing pier, and stunning views of the Intracoastal Waterway. It’s a favorite spot for sunset walks and community events.
  • Riviera Beach Municipal Beach – While not technically in West Palm Beach, this nearby beach offers soft sands, crystal-clear waters, and a relaxed atmosphere for sunbathing and swimming.

Outdoor Activities & Sports Facilities

  • Boating & Water Sports – The Intracoastal Waterway provides excellent opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, jet skiing, and boating. Several marinas, including Safe Harbor Rybovich, offer boat rentals and docking.
  • Golf Courses – West Palm Beach is home to several premier golf courses, including West Palm Beach Golf Club, Bear Lakes Country Club, and Trump International Golf Club.
  • Tennis & Pickleball – Public courts can be found at places like South Olive Park and Howard Park, while private clubs offer more advanced facilities.
  • Biking & Hiking Trails – The Apoxee Wilderness Trail and Bluegill Trail offer scenic paths for hiking and cycling, with opportunities to explore Florida’s unique wetlands.
  • Family-Friendly Playgrounds – Parks like Phipps Park and Lake Lytal Park have well-maintained playgrounds, splash pads, and picnic areas, making them great spots for families.

Annual Outdoor Events

  • SunFest – A massive waterfront music and arts festival held along Flagler Drive, featuring live performances, food vendors, and fireworks.
  • Fourth on Flagler – The city’s largest Independence Day celebration, with live entertainment, a family fun zone, and a spectacular fireworks display over the water.
  • GreenMarket – A weekly farmers’ market offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, and live entertainment, ranked among the best in the country.
  • Palm Beach International Boat Show – A prestigious event showcasing luxury yachts, boating gear, and water sports demonstrations.

Schools and Education

West Palm Beach offers a diverse range of educational opportunities, including top-rated public schools, private institutions, and higher education facilities. The School District of Palm Beach County, one of the largest in Florida, serves the area and is known for its strong academic programs and extracurricular offerings.

 

Notable public schools in the area include Alexander W. Dreyfoos School of the Arts, consistently ranked as one of the best high schools in Florida, with a specialized curriculum focused on visual and performing arts. Other well-regarded public schools include Bak Middle School of the Arts, Suncoast Community High School, and G-Star School of the Arts, all of which provide specialized academic tracks. For younger students, Palm Beach Public Elementary and Meadow Park Elementary receive high marks for their academic performance and student engagement.

 

West Palm Beach is also home to prestigious private schools, such as The King’s Academy, which offers a strong college preparatory program, and Oxbridge Academy, known for its rigorous academics and emphasis on leadership development. Rosarian Academy, a Catholic school serving Pre-K through 8th grade, is another popular option among local families.

 

Higher education institutions in the area include Palm Beach Atlantic University, a private Christian university offering a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs. Additionally, Keiser University and Palm Beach State College provide further academic and vocational training opportunities, making West Palm Beach a great location for students at all levels.

 

Commute and Accessibility

West Palm Beach enjoys excellent connectivity, making commuting and travel convenient for both residents and visitors. The city is strategically positioned along Interstate 95 (I-95), which provides easy access to other major Florida cities, including Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Orlando. Additionally, Florida’s Turnpike runs west of the city, offering an alternative route for those traveling north or south.

 

For those who prefer public transportation, the West Palm Beach Brightline Station offers high-speed rail service connecting Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Orlando, making regional travel more efficient. The Tri-Rail commuter train also provides access to the Miami metropolitan area, with a station conveniently located near downtown. Palm Tran, the county’s public bus service, offers reliable routes throughout West Palm Beach and surrounding neighborhoods.

 

Residents traveling by air have quick access to Palm Beach International Airport (PBI), located just minutes from downtown. The airport serves domestic and international flights, making business and leisure travel highly convenient. Additionally, cycling is popular in the city, with designated bike lanes and pedestrian-friendly areas enhancing accessibility, particularly in downtown and waterfront areas.

 

Utilities and Services

West Palm Beach provides a comprehensive network of essential utilities and public services, ensuring a high quality of life for residents and businesses. The City of West Palm Beach Utilities Department supplies water and wastewater services, known for its commitment to sustainability and clean water initiatives. The city encourages conservation through rebate programs and environmental projects, including the protection of Grassy Waters Preserve, which serves as a key water source.

 

Electricity is primarily provided by Florida Power & Light (FPL), one of the largest utility companies in the state, offering reliable service and energy efficiency programs. Natural gas is available through Florida Public Utilities (FPU), serving both residential and commercial customers.

 

Waste management and recycling services are handled by Solid Waste Authority of Palm Beach County (SWA), which provides curbside trash, recycling, and bulk pickup services. The city promotes sustainability through recycling programs and hazardous waste drop-off locations.

 

Emergency services are well-equipped, with the West Palm Beach Fire Rescue and West Palm Beach Police Department ensuring public safety. The city also has multiple hospitals and medical centers, including Good Samaritan Medical Center and St. Mary’s Medical Center, providing comprehensive healthcare services.

 

Real Estate in West Palm Beach, FL

 

Demographics and Employment Data for West Palm Beach, FL

West Palm Beach has 48,002 households, with an average household size of 2.35. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in West Palm Beach do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 115,877 people call West Palm Beach home. The population density is 2,153.1 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

115,877

Total Population

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

40.4

Median Age

48.36 / 51.64%

Men vs Women

Population by Age Group

0-9:

0-9 Years

10-17:

10-17 Years

18-24:

18-24 Years

25-64:

25-64 Years

65-74:

65-74 Years

75+:

75+ Years

Education Level

  • Less Than 9th Grade
  • High School Degree
  • Associate Degree
  • Bachelor Degree
  • Graduate Degree
48,002

Total Households

2.35

Average Household Size

$36,247

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children:

Without Children:

Marital Status

Married
Single
Divorced
Separated

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar:

White Collar:

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes
15 to 29 Minutes
30 to 59 Minutes
60+ Minutes

Schools in West Palm Beach, FL

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The following schools are within or nearby West Palm Beach. The rating and statistics can serve as a starting point to make baseline comparisons on the right schools for your family. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
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School rating

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