Cost of Living in West Palm Beach, FL

Palm Beach County · 2026 Data · 5 nearby cities in county

COL Index
112
vs FL Avg
+7
Median Income
$58K

Cost of Living Breakdown

Overall Cost of Living
108vs 100 US avg
Below avg
Near avg
Above avg
High
Housing
US avg = 100112
Groceries
US avg = 100105
Healthcare
US avg = 100102
Transportation
US avg = 100108
Utilities
US avg = 100106

Housing & Income in West Palm Beach

Median Home Price
$455,000
Estimated market price
Median Monthly Rent
$2,400
All unit types
Median Household Income
$58,000
Annual, pre-tax
Est. Monthly Payment
$2,236
20% down, 30yr fixed
Property Tax Rate
0.9%
~$4,095/yr
Price-to-Rent Ratio
15.8x
<15 favors buying

About Living in West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach is the cultural hub of South Florida's Palm Beach County, offering waterfront living, vibrant nightlife, and a growing tech sector.

With a cost of living index of 112, West Palm Beach is 12% above the US average and 7 points above the Florida average of 105. The median household income of $58,000 supports a home-price-to-income ratio of 7.8x — above the recommended 4–5x threshold.

FAQ

Common questions about cost of living in West Palm Beach

What is the cost of living in West Palm Beach, FL?

West Palm Beach's overall cost of living index is 112 compared to the US average of 100. Housing (112) is the main driver, with groceries at 105, healthcare at 102, transportation at 108, and utilities at 106.

Is West Palm Beach affordable to live in?

West Palm Beach is near the national average with a COL index of 112. It offers a balance of amenities and affordability. Median rent is $2,400/mo.

How does West Palm Beach compare to the Florida average?

West Palm Beach's COL index of 112 is 7 points above the Florida average of 105. Coastal amenities and employment opportunities drive the premium.