Palm Beach County, FL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
1,533,806
1.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$83,581/yr
3.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
719,463
0.8% year-over-year change

Palm Beach County population

How many people live in Palm Beach County

Palm Beach County is home to 1,533,806 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.8% of Palm Beach County locals are male, and 51.2% are female.

Total population
1,533,806
1.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.8%
748,384
Female
51.2%
785,422
Value Percent YoY change
Male 748,384 48.8% 1.8%
Female 785,422 51.2% 1.7%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Palm Beach County is 45, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.4% are children under 15, then 10.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.4% of the population, while another 25.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 24.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
45.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.4%
15 to 24
10.8%
25 to 44
23.4%
45 to 64
25.5%
Over 65
24.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 236,610 15.4% 1.3%
15 to 24 166,039 10.8% 2.3%
25 to 44 359,265 23.4% 2.2%
45 to 64 390,903 25.5% 0.4%
Over 65 380,989 24.8% 2.8%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Palm Beach County, 69.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 18.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 12.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 53.4% of locals are Caucasian, 18.5% are African American and 2.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 17% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
69.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
18.3%
Non-citizens
12.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 1,067,771 69.6% 0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 280,419 18.3% 3.5%
Non-citizens 185,616 12.1% 6.3%
Racial breakdown
White
53.4%
Black or African American
18.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
2.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
17%
Other
7.9%
Value Percent
White 819,376 53.4%
Black or African American 283,334 18.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 4,132 0.3%
Asian 43,784 2.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 741 0%
Two or more races 261,134 17%
Other 121,305 7.9%

Households in Palm Beach County

A peek inside Palm Beach County households

Palm Beach County has 605,430 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 62.9% are families, while the remaining 37.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
605,430
1.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
224,689
Family households
380,741
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 224,689 37.1% 1.8%
Family households 380,741 62.9% 1.2%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Palm Beach County

The housing landscape of Palm Beach County

Palm Beach County's housing consists of 719,463 units, with 45.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 11.5% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 2.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
719,463
0.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 327,580 45.5%
1 unit, attached 82,924 11.5%
2 units 18,444 2.6%
3 or 4 units 44,356 6.2%
5 to 9 units 44,967 6.2%
10 to 19 units 43,388 6%
20 to 49 units 60,923 8.5%
50 or more units 76,467 10.6%
Mobile home 19,845 2.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 569 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
13,058
68.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Palm Beach County

In Palm Beach County, the median construction year is 1986. About 1.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 15.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 12,072 1.7% -0.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 7,751 1.1% -3.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 34,414 4.8% 0.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 53,744 7.5% -1.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 132,918 18.5% 0.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 189,546 26.4% 0.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 109,164 15.2% -3.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 113,744 15.8% 0.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 53,052 7.4% 6.6%
Built in 2020 or later 13,058 1.8% 68.4%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Palm Beach County occupancy rates

Out of the 605,430 occupied housing units in Palm Beach County, 70.1% are owner-occupied, while 29.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 15.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
605,430
1.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
181,166
Owner occupied
424,264
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 181,166 29.9% 0.7%
Owner occupied 424,264 70.1% 1.7%
Unoccupied housing units
15.8%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Palm Beach County housing costs

Housing costs in Palm Beach County come to a median of $1,754 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,916.

Median housing costs per month
$1,754/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Palm Beach County
$1,916/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Palm Beach County

Palm Beach County education at a glance

About 29.1% of the population in Palm Beach County went to high school, while 18.5% pursued college studies. Another 8.9% earned an associate degree and 23.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 14.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 68,129 5.5% 2.3%
High school diploma 362,213 29.1% 1.3%
College diploma 230,428 18.5% -1.0%
Associate degree 110,530 8.9% -0.9%
Bachelor's degree 291,398 23.4% 4.2%
Graduate degree 181,992 14.6% 4.3%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Palm Beach County

How much people earn in Palm Beach County

The average annual household income in Palm Beach County was $128,577 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $83,581, reflecting a +3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Palm Beach County
$128,577/year
2.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Palm Beach County
$83,581/year
3.0% year-over-year change

Palm Beach County income by age

In Palm Beach County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $90,971. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $100,086 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $50,342, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $65,565 in earnings. Overall, 88.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $50,342 2.4%
25 - 44 $90,971 4.1%
45 - 64 $100,086 2.8%
Over 65 $65,565 1.8%
Above poverty level
1,326,843
Below poverty level
168,603
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 1,326,843 88.7% 1.5%
Below poverty level 168,603 11.3% 4.3%

Employment in Palm Beach County

Workforce and job types in Palm Beach County

The job market in Palm Beach County is powered by 720,316 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 82.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 17.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 15.8% run their own businesses, 68.4% are employed by private companies, and 10% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
720,316
1.7% year-over-year change
White collar
595,078
Blue collar
125,238
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 595,078 82.6% 1.8%
Blue collar 125,238 17.4% 1.3%
Employer type
Self employees
15.8%
Private companies
68.4%
Governmental workers
10%
Not for profit companies
5.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 114,048 15.8% 4.0%
Private companies 492,850 68.4% 1.4%
Governmental workers 71,818 10% -0.6%
Not for profit companies 41,600 5.8% 3.1%
Unemployment rate
5.5%
2.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Palm Beach County stands at 5.5%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Palm Beach County

How people get around in Palm Beach County

In Palm Beach County, the average commute time is 26 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 79.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
26 min
0.4% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 557,815 79.3% -0.4%
Taxicab 2,182 0.3% 2.8%
Bus or trolleybus 8,536 1.2% 5.1%
Subway or elevated 543 0.1% N/A
Railroad 1,245 0.2% -0.1%
Ferryboat 94 0% -16.8%
Motorcycle 959 0.1% -15.0%
Bicycle 2,875 0.4% 5.8%
Walk 8,671 1.2% 0.8%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Palm Beach County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
33404 30,912 11,796 $65,063 $97,597
33405 19,780 8,455 $87,341 $130,123
33406 26,945 8,700 $77,075 $97,579
33407 34,851 13,276 $59,993 $78,515
33408 18,817 9,725 $92,216 $155,652
33409 33,489 12,097 $67,073 $86,567
33410 36,759 15,450 $94,530 $167,228
33411 76,863 28,463 $92,591 $120,206
33401 33,698 15,696 $67,967 $116,035
33403 14,370 4,883 $70,646 $82,115

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FAQs about Palm Beach County demographics 

What is the total population of Palm Beach County?

Palm Beach County has a total population of 1,533,806 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +1.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Palm Beach County?

The gender ratio in Palm Beach County is as follows:
  • 48.8% males (748,384 residents)
  • 51.2% females (785,422 residents)

What is the median age in Palm Beach County?

The median age in Palm Beach County is 45.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Palm Beach County?

The age distribution in Palm Beach County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.4% (236,610 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.8% (166,039 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.4% (359,265 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.5% (390,903 residents)
  • Over 65: 24.8% (380,989 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Palm Beach County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Palm Beach County is as follows:
  • White: 53.4% (819,376 residents)
  • Black or African American: 18.5% (283,334 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (4,132 residents)
  • Asian: 2.8% (43,784 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (741 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 17% (261,134 residents)
  • Other: 7.9% (121,305 residents)

What percentage of the population in Palm Beach County are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 69.6% of the population in Palm Beach County.

How many housing units are there in Palm Beach County?

There are 719,463 housing units in Palm Beach County, reflecting a +0.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Palm Beach County and what is the average household size?

Palm Beach County has a total of 605,430 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Palm Beach County?

Palm Beach County has a median household income of $83,581, representing a +3.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Palm Beach County?

The employment rate is 94.5% in Palm Beach County, with a workforce of 720,316 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 82.6% (595,078 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 17.4% (125,238 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 15.8% (114,048 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.4% (492,850 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10% (71,818 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.8% (41,600 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025