County of palm beach
florida
History & Founding
Located on Florida's southeastern coast, this county boasts a rich history intertwined with the state’s development. Established in 1909, it was carved out of Dade County, reflecting a growing population and a desire for more localized governance. The name itself is derived from the abundant palmetto trees that once dominated the landscape and the sandy beach along the Atlantic coast. Early inhabitants were primarily Tequesta Indians, followed by Spanish explorers and, later, American settlers. The county played a crucial role in Florida’s citrus boom, with vast groves flourishing in the early 20th century. An interesting anecdote from this era involves Addison Mizner, a flamboyant architect who attempted to create a Mediterranean-inspired city called Boca Raton in the 1920s. While the project ultimately failed during the Great Depression, it left an indelible mark on the area’s architectural style and allure.
Geography & Landscape
The county's geography is remarkably diverse. Situated between Lake Okeechobee and the Atlantic Ocean, it encompasses a mix of coastal plains, scrublands, and wetlands. The terrain is generally flat, sloping gently towards the ocean, with a few low-lying hills inland. The Loxahatchee River, a designated National Wild and Scenic River, winds its way through the county, providing vital habitat and recreational opportunities. Numerous lakes, including Lake Worth and Greenacres Lake, dot the landscape. The climate is subtropical, characterized by hot, humid summers and mild, dry winters. The Atlantic coastline is lined with beautiful beaches, attracting visitors and residents alike. A notable natural feature is the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, a haven for migratory birds and other wildlife.
Economy & Communities
The area is a tapestry of vibrant communities and diverse economic activities. West Palm Beach serves as the county seat and a major urban center, while Boca Raton is known for its upscale lifestyle and prestigious universities. Other significant towns include Delray Beach, Jupiter, and Wellington. The economy is multifaceted, with tourism being a cornerstone. Agriculture remains important, though significantly reduced from its historical prominence, with sugarcane, vegetables, and tropical fruits still cultivated. Industry includes healthcare, finance, and technology. Major employers include hospitals, universities, and tourism-related businesses. The overall character is a blend of suburban and urban, with pockets of rural charm remaining in the western portions of the county.
Points of Interest
The county offers a wealth of attractions and points of interest. John D. MacArthur Beach State Park and Lion Country Safari are popular destinations for nature lovers. The Norton Museum of Art and the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts showcase the area's cultural vibrancy. The annual Palm Beach International Boat Show and the Kravis Gone Country festival draw large crowds. Notable residents have included Henry Flagler, a railroad magnate who helped shape Florida’s development, and numerous celebrities who appreciate the area’s beauty and exclusivity. The county holds the record for the highest concentration of billionaires in the United States, further cementing its reputation as a place of wealth and prestige.
Information
- State
- florida
- Type
- County
- Population
- 1,131,184
- Land area
- 2,034 sq mi
- Capital
- West Palm Beach
- Time zone
- UTC-5
- FIPS
- 12099
61 Cities
| City | Population | Elevation |
|---|---|---|
| West Palm Beach | 82,103 | 21 ft (6 m) |
| Boca Raton | 74,764 | 16 ft (5 m) |
| Boynton Beach | 60,389 | 30 ft (9 m) |
| Delray Beach | 60,020 | 20 ft (6 m) |
| Jupiter | 39,328 | 8 ft (2 m) |
| Wellington | 38,216 | 15 ft (5 m) |
| Lake Worth | 35,133 | 19 ft (6 m) |
| Palm Beach Gardens | 35,058 | 20 ft (6 m) |
| Riviera Beach | 29,884 | 11 ft (3 m) |
| Greenacres | 27,569 | 19 ft (6 m) |
| Boca Del Mar | 21,832 | 15 ft (5 m) |
| Royal Palm Beach | 21,523 | 18 ft (5 m) |
| Lake Worth Corridor | 18,663 | 15 ft (5 m) |
| Sandalfoot Cove | 16,582 | 15 ft (5 m) |
| Belle Glade | 14,906 | 20 ft (6 m) |
| Kings Point | 12,207 | 15 ft (5 m) |
| North Palm Beach | 12,064 | 25 ft (8 m) |
| Palm Springs | 11,699 | 15 ft (5 m) |
| Hamptons at Boca Raton | 11,306 | 15 ft (5 m) |
| Palm Beach | 10,468 | 15 ft (5 m) |
| Lantana | 9,437 | 10 ft (3 m) |
| Lake Park | 8,721 | 5 ft (2 m) |
| Century Village | 7,616 | 15 ft (5 m) |
| Golden Lakes | 6,694 | 15 ft (5 m) |
| Pahokee | 5,985 | 15 ft (5 m) |
| Tequesta | 5,273 | 10 ft (3 m) |
| Whisper Walk | 5,135 | - |
| Villages of Oriole | 4,758 | - |
| South Bay | 3,859 | 21 ft (6 m) |
| Highland Beach | 3,775 | 10 ft (3 m) |
| Royal Palm Estates | 3,583 | 15 ft (5 m) |
| Lake Clarke Shores | 3,451 | 10 ft (3 m) |
| Lakeside Green | 3,311 | 15 ft (5 m) |
| Boca Pointe | 3,302 | 15 ft (5 m) |
| Juno Beach | 3,262 | 5 ft (2 m) |
| High Point | 2,973 | - |
| Mission Bay | 2,926 | 15 ft (5 m) |
| Seminole Manor | 2,546 | 10 ft (3 m) |
| Hypoluxo | 2,015 | 9 ft (3 m) |
| Atlantis | 2,005 | 15 ft (5 m) |
| Ocean Ridge | 1,636 | 8 ft (2 m) |
| Lake Belvedere Estates | 1,525 | 15 ft (5 m) |
| Cypress Lakes | 1,468 | 15 ft (5 m) |
| Haverhill | 1,454 | 19 ft (6 m) |
| Mangonia Park | 1,283 | 14 ft (4 m) |
| Palm Beach Shores | 1,269 | 10 ft (3 m) |
| Plantation Mobile Home Park | 1,218 | 15 ft (5 m) |
| Belle Glade Camp | 1,141 | - |
| Schall Circle | 965 | 15 ft (5 m) |
| Stacey Street | 958 | 15 ft (5 m) |
| Juno Ridge | 742 | 15 ft (5 m) |
| Gulf Stream | 716 | 7 ft (2 m) |
| Gun Club Estates | 711 | 20 ft (6 m) |
| South Palm Beach | 699 | 20 ft (6 m) |
| Limestone Creek | 569 | 10 ft (3 m) |
| Canal Point | 525 | 26 ft (8 m) |
| Briny Breezes | 411 | 5 ft (2 m) |
| Dunes Road | 391 | 5 ft (2 m) |
| Manalapan | 321 | 4 ft (1 m) |
| Glen Ridge | 276 | 12 ft (4 m) |
| Golf | 230 | 15 ft (5 m) |