Downtown West Palm Beach blends coastal relaxation with a vibrant culture along the Lake Worth Lagoon. While the city’s events and luxurious resorts bring in millions of visitors per year, permanent residents are amazed by the close, intertwined community that is nonetheless fostered here. “Everyone marvels about how much of a small town feel downtown has. You can sit outside at any restaurant and be stunned at how many people you know,” says Realtor Ginger Gowing with Luxury Real Estate Group. Gowing has lived and sold homes in Downtown West Palm Beach for over 20 years and says the leading quality of the area is its walkability. “I lived here for 10 years without a car. You can walk to any event, the grocery store, work or the beach,” she says. Residents are surrounded by warm weather year-round, lush palm trees and bright sunny days. Tropical views are complemented by urban art installations, including murals, lights and water sculptures that add a colorful ambiance to the area. In Downtown West Palm Beach, locals can enjoy the workday and the nightlife without having to worry about parking or ordering an Uber.
Locals of Downtown West Palm Beach, FL can enjoy wonderful street performances at Clematis street.
Downtown West Palm Beach residents enjoy many restaurants and bars along Clematis street.
1/2
Shopping and dining at The Square, Worth Avenue and beyond
Downtown West Palm Beach has numerous shopping centers for a variety of retail and dining. The Square, formally known as CityPlace, is the most notable for its interior that Gowing likens to Disney World. It has retail, restaurants, art exhibits, business offices, residences and a Publix Supermarket. The Square’s dining options include food trucks, European-style cafes and rooftop restaurants. Subculture Coffee is a popular spot among younger locals to socialize or study on the patio. Mama Bella Gourmet Market off South Dixie Highway is another local favorite that serves European fare. Nightlife is a major aspect of Downtown West Palm Beach culture, and Thursday through Saturday evenings can become quite busy along Clematis Street. About 2 miles away is Worth Avenue, dubbed one of the world’s wealthiest shopping centers and home to designer retail, including Chanel and Versace.
Discover treasures at the Life in Palm Beach store in Downtown West Palm Beach.
Angie's ice cream truck in The Square in Downtown West Palm Beach.
1/2
Downtown West Palm Beach waterfront activities
The most popular outdoor space in the neighborhood is the Downtown West Palm Beach Waterfront near Clematis Street. Here, locals can catch a movie at the Screen on the Green or attend SunFest music and art festival. There is also the adjacent Nancy M. Graham Centennial Square, which features a splash pad. One of the biggest draws to the area is access to public docks and watersport rentals. More outdoor space can be found at The Square, which has green areas for events, such as weekly yoga classes, stroller strides and live music. “While you’re wandering around or getting coffee with a friend, you’ll hear singing or soft live music playing in the background,” Gowing says.
Hakuna Matata Catamaran Cruises provides sightseeing tours in Downtown West Palm Beach.
Downtown West Palm Beach offers its visitors a gorgeous and scenic waterfront experience.
1/2
Downtown West Palm Beach festivities
In Downtown West Palm Beach, “You can do something new every day or choose to do nothing, but there is always some activity happening,” Gowing says. A staple of the neighborhood is GreenMarket’s weekly farmers market, which features local vendors, food and fresh flowers. A block away, the West Palm Beach Antique and Flea Market opens every Saturday from October to May. The popular Holiday in Paradise event has a light show accompanied by an 800-ton sand Christmas tree and Ferris wheel. There are art shows, car shows, concert series, film festivals and numerous other events for a wide array of interests. The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts is another popular spot for musicals and concerts.
Music under the stars at Clematis by Night in Downtown West Palm Beach.
The GreenMarket was voted the best market in the US for 2 years by USA Today.
1/2
Transportation in Downtown West Palm Beach
While most locals get around by foot to all of the area’s attractions, the city does offer free Circuit shuttles and downtown trolley rides. Amtrak, Brightline Trains, Palm Tran and the Tri-Rail Commuter Connector also serve the area. When traveling by car, Interstate 95 connects West Palm with other cities along the Atlantic coast. South Dixie Highway cuts straight through the area as well. Meanwhile, Royal Park Bridge links West Palm Beach with Palm Beach, and Palm Beach International Airport is about 4 miles away.
The Palm Tran city bus is one of the many transportation options in Downtown West Palm Beach.
Brightline Ride is a convenient form of transportation in Downtown West Palm Beach.
1/2
Diverse housing options in Downtown West Palm Beach
Downtown West Palm Beach offers a variety of options for homebuyers. From quaint, pastel-colored cottages to luxurious high-rise condos and modern mansions, the area has properties that suit many styles and price ranges. Single-family homes often bear Spanish and Mediterranean architecture, with prices increasing with proximity to the water. Homes and condos on the water or close to it can begin as low as $300,000 and soar past $10 million. Properties farther inland and west of busier areas typically sell between $300,000 and $1 million. Rentable options are available as well, starting around $1,000 per month and climbing past $10,000.
Mediterranean paradise ranch with lush landscaping in Downtown West Palm Beach.
Flagler South is a luxurious condominium option in Downtown West Palm Beach.
1/2
Public education in Downtown West Palm Beach
Students here can begin their education at Roosevelt Elementary, which scores a C grade on Niche. Conniston Community Middle School scores a B-minus and has an IB program. Forest Hill Community High also earns a B-minus grade and has a host of in-house programs, including IB, culinary arts and criminal justice. Private schools are available near Downtown West Palm Beach, including A-rated Palm Beach Christian Academy and Rosarian Academy, with an A-plus. Palm Beach Atlantic University is also located nearby for a higher education opportunity.
Administration office of Forest Hill Community High School.
Roosevelt Elementary School has an art mural to look at.
1/2
Important factors to know about Downtown West Palm Beach
Although Florida is known for having a critical hurricane season, Gowing mentions that the area has not seen a hurricane in years, but buildings are prepared with impact glass. Flooding is also not an issue, and though winds can get strong, the gusts are rarely dangerous. With any large city, crime can be a concern, and Downtown West Palm Beach receives a CAP Index score of 8.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Downtown West Palm Beach Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Downtown West Palm Beach, West Palm Beach sell after 128 days on the market compared to the national average of 52 days. The median sale price for homes in Downtown West Palm Beach, West Palm Beach over the last 12 months is $614,500, up 4% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Experience the ultimate live-work-play lifestyle in this rare penthouse condo in the heart of Downtown West Palm Beach. Soaring 9' ceilings, smooth finish walls, and brand-new hurricane-impact sliders create a light, serene retreat just steps from world-class dining, shopping, and entertainment. Completely renovated in 2022, the home features a chef's kitchen with quartz counters, full
Experience flexible downtown living at CityPlace Tower in West Palm Beach. This 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo features 1,025 sq ft under air with a private balcony, impact windows, updated flooring, black stainless appliances, and in-unit laundry. The building is in full compliance with Florida's new condo laws and offers recent improvements including a new roof and refreshed exterior. Enjoy 24-hour
Welcome home to this jaw-dropping double-floor 17ft ceiling Treetop Loft in Downtown WPB. An expansive 2,311 sqft of high vibrational energy amidst the treetops with park + bay views. With 3 Beds & 3.5 Baths this masterpiece was meticulously renovated in 2023 with no expense spared; wide-plank oak, glass partitions, genuine stone, chef’s kitchen w/ Italian appliances, designer fixtures & a
Experience the best of 610 Clematis! This ultra-chic building boasts a stunning lobby with limestone and coffered ceilings, setting the tone for a contemporary lifestyle. Residents and guests enjoy:24-hour roving security and a professionally attended lobbyKey card security access for added peace of mindAmenities include:An Infinity edge heated lap pool and outdoor spa on the Sunrise Deck,
Experience luxury living at The Metropolitan, a full-service boutique building in the heart of downtown West Palm Beach! This exceptional penthouse 1 bed/1.5 bath residence features soaring ceilings and a private balcony overlooking the garden. Enjoy top amenities including a rooftop pool and spa, lounge area, fitness center, business center, community room, and peaceful garden spaces. The
This unit boasts a larger one bedroom floor plan and the balcony expands for all of the living room & bedroom . Welcome to your urban oasis in the heart of vibrant downtown West Palm Beach. This sleek and stylish 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom condo offers the perfect blend of contemporary living and urban convenience. Walking distance to restaurants, bars, shopping centers, fitness trails and just a
Welcome to your first floor, recently remodeled, light and bright apartment. New paint and new floors. Water is included in rent. This location is close to downtown West Palm Beach, the Outlet Mall, medical centers, schools, and more. Easy application process! Approval can be within 24 hours! Available for immediate move in. Schedule a showing today!
''Introducing PRADO, named after the renowned National Museum of Spain. This upscale residence offers first-class amenities, including a beautifully landscaped pool area with spa and outdoor cabanas, a state-of-the-art fitness center, steam room, and 24-hour attended lobby with a business center. The Prado's design seamlessly blends location, architecture, and art.Strategically located near City
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
