Living in Boca Raton

Are you moving to Boca Raton, FL? Ensure you know these ten things about living in Boca Raton, along with information on the cost of living, real estate, and education.

Considered one of the best places to live on Florida's southeastern coast, the gorgeous city of Boca Raton, Florida, is both popular and desirable. Known for its world-famous beaches on the Palm Coast, a plethora of golf courses, and access to some of the most sought-after dining and entertainment, living in Boca Raton is a dream come true. With a population of 99,009, approximately 1,000 new residents are moving to the city each year in search of all the opportunities that Boca Raton can offer its residents. Prized for being a safe community with a crime rate lower than the Florida average, young professionals and retirees are moving to Boca Raton in search of a home for sale. 

If you are considering moving to Boca Raton, Florida, you have come to the right place. Prized for its small-town, old Florida charm, luxurious living, and prime real estate, Boca Raton could be just your place. Boca Raton can also a be a great place to make passive income as a rental property owner. While moving can be exciting and stressful, this moving guide was created to help make your move that much easier.

Here are ten things to know about life in Boca Raton

History 

For years, the name Boca Raton has piqued the interest of the locals. When Spanish settlers first arrived in the area in 1895, they came up with the name Boca Raton or Boca de Ratones, which stands for "The Rat's Mouth." Referring to its sharp, rocky waters and rough, jagged inlet, ships of early settlers faced hazards and damage when sailing into the city.

In the early 1500s and 1600s, Boca Raton was also called "Thieves Inlet," named after the Tequesta Indians accused of stealing and the local legend that pirates would use the port as a stopping point between raids. Some even say that the infamous pirate Blackbeard frequently visited this port city, so much so that he buried some of his treasure in the sands.

Cost of Living

Boca Raton, Florida, is often prized for its affluent and wealthy lifestyle. Since it is such a rich area, the cost of living tends to be higher. With a cost of living that is 14% higher than the national average, Boca Raton is not considered one of the cheapest places to live in Florida. 

On the plus side, the no-state income tax Florida provides its residents is a great way to save some extra money. If you are looking for a cheap city to move to in Florida, this may not be the place for you, but there are still affordable housing options and comfortable neighborhoods.

*Data Sourced from BestPlaces. 

Real Estate 

With a real estate market that is somewhat competitive, most homes get multiple offers and spend an average of 92 days on the market. Featuring various home styles and safe neighborhoods, the median list price in Boca Raton is $1,744,229, with an average price per square foot of $538. 

Weather 

One of the many reasons that people are flocking to Boca Raton is its warm tropical climate. Warm and mild all year round, the summer months are hot, humid, and cloudy, while the winters are windy, calm, and clear. The hottest months are from June to September, with average temperatures varying from 61 degrees Fahrenheit to 89 degrees Fahrenheit. It rarely gets cold throughout the year since the weather stays above 46 degrees Fahrenheit during the coldest months. So, if you are moving from a cold and snowy climate, a snow shovel is one less item you need to pack.

Receiving an average of 60 inches of rain a year, the rainy season is from May to October, with September being the wettest month. It is also important to note that since Boca Raton is a coastal community in South Florida, hurricanes and tropical storms are real threats to the area that need to be taken seriously. Hurricane season is from June to November and can cause bad flash flooding near canals and damaging high winds. When living in Boca, always watch the news and potential weather warnings.

Beautiful Beaches

Do you like to spend your days at the beach? Then you are in luck. Boca Raton is home to some of the best beaches in all of Florida. It is most famous for its pristine two-mile stretch of fluffy white sand and blue waters, patrolled by lifeguards who enjoy the surf and the sand on the Boca Raton coast. Described as isolated, serene, peaceful, and laid back, the beaches of Boca Raton are ideal for families.

A great place to participate in watersports or to watch the sunset, there is also a boardwalk to walk around and enjoy the views. Plus, if you want to mix up the scenery, drive two hours to The Florida Keys or hop aboard a ferry and sail 85 miles east across the Atlantic to The Bahamas.

Check out this Boca Raton Beach Live Webcam and see the beach yourself.

Make sure to visit these other beaches near Boca Raton, Florida!

• South Beach Park, Boca Raton: This 24.5-acre beach is family-friendly and relaxing. Spend the day swimming, surfing, shelling, boating, or fishing while admiring the wildlife.
• Red Reef Park: Considered a favorite beach in Boca, this oceanfront park is 67 acres and offers some of the best beach access in the city. While parking can be expensive, Red Reef Park is beloved for its cleanliness and small crowds.
• South Inlet Park: Featuring picnic areas and a playground, this small beach is a local gem with cheap parking. Away from crowds, hang out by the boardwalk and cool off in the water.
• Spanish River Park: Located along the Intracoastal Waterway and near nature trails, this small beach and park is excellent for picnics and bringing the kids.
• Bark Park Dog Beach: The best dog beach around. Bring your furry friends and family for a full day of fun. This beach is pretty and well-maintained, and there are dog-friendly eateries and bars across the street.

Education

No matter where you may be moving from, there is no denying that Boca Raton is a fantastic place to raise a family. If you are moving with school-aged children or are thinking about starting your own family, you will be pleasantly surprised to learn that Boca Raton values quality education. Surrounded by some of the top public schools and universities in South Florida, Boca Raton residents have a long list of excellent schools to choose from.

Part of the Palm Beach County Public School District, Boca Raton has the highest concentration of top public schools in Florida. The top-ranked schools in Boca Raton include A.D. Henderson University School, Fau High School, Don Estridge High Technical Middle School, and Waters Edge Elementary School. Before buying a home, choose a neighborhood that feeds into the schools you want your children to attend.

For those seeking higher education opportunities, Boca Raton is the location of the main campus of Florida Atlantic University. With over 33,000 students currently enrolled and offering 170 undergraduate and graduate degree programs, they study a broad range of academic programs at this public four-year university. Lynn University and Everglades University are private institutions in the area. Plus, with 28 colleges in the Florida College System and 171 universities in the state, start your college career while enjoying in-state tuition status.

Prime Location 

Boca Raton is nestled right off the Atlantic Coast and found in Palm Beach County. Centrally located, Boca Raton is in a prime location near other popular Florida cities. Right off Interstate 95, Boca Raton is only 24 minutes to Fort Lauderdale, 47 minutes to Miami, an hour and a half to Naples, and two hours to Fort Myers. It is only three hours to Orlando; head to Walt Disney World or Universal Orlando for a day or weekend trip.

For easy travel, the Boca Raton Airport is adjacent to the Florida Atlantic University campus and serves the Miami Metropolitan Area. The city of Boca Raton is also close to three international airports. Fly out of Palm Beach International Airport, Fort Lauderdale International Airport, or Miami International Airport within 40 minutes of Boca Raton.

Sports

South Florida is the place to be if you love all things sports. No matter what sport you like, there is a team to support. Boca Raton residents must root for the home team, from ice hockey to football. Cheer for the Florida Panthers National Hockey League Team at the BB&T Center, The Miami Dolphins National Football League Team at the Hard Rock Stadium, or the Miami Marlins Major League Baseball team at the LoanDepot Park.

For golf lovers, check out the Allianz Championship Golf Tournament, part of the PGA Tour in Boca Raton. If you want more than professional sports, Boca Raton is also a college team town. Support college sports at Florida Atlantic University or the University of Miami.

Things To Do 

There is more to Boca Raton than just the beaches. If you are worried about boredom when living here, that will certainly not happen. Comparable to living in Miami but without the crowds, Boca Raton has many outdoor parks, nature trails, museums, sophisticated shopping centers, and fun things to do to explore.

Many events and festivals are happening throughout the city all year. Make sure to attend the Boca Raton Festival of the Arts to celebrate local artists and listen to live music, or head out to Boca Bash for a full day of boating, jet skiing, rafting, and watersports.

Check out some of these local attractions and activities in Boca Raton. 

• Boca Raton Museum of Art: Open for 70 years, the Boca Raton Museum of Art is the official art museum in Boca Raton that features art, exhibits, and educational opportunities. Admission for adults is $12, while admission for children and students is free.
• Mizner Park Boca Raton: This open-air luxury park and lifestyle center in Downton Boca Raton is a local favorite featuring many popular shops and restaurants and an amphitheater.
• Town Center at Boca Raton: This upscale shopping center is one of Florida's top luxury shopping centers. It features many popular stores, including Bloomingdale's and Nordstrom.
• Gumbo Limbo Nature Center and Environmental Complex: Founded in 1924, this environmental complex is dedicated to sea turtle conservation. Visit the butterfly garden, sea turtle rehabilitation center, outdoor aquarium, boardwalk, and nature trails. This is a must-do for families and nature lovers.
• Sugar Sand Park: Winning several awards over the past few years, including the award for being "The Best of the Best Parks," this free community park features playgrounds, walking trails, a splash pad, a carousel, and athletic fields.
• Barrel of Monks Brewery: Making Belgian Ales and craft brews in a relaxing setting and state-of-the-art brewery. Learn how this craft beer is made and visit the tasting room. This is a great place to bring a group of friends. Try the Pineapple Coconut Super Wizard or the Single in Havana brews.

Pros and Cons 

Pros: 

• Stunning beaches 
• Beautiful real estate 
• Luxury living 
• Job opportunities 
• Rich history 
• Warm weather 
• Fun things to do 
• Prime location
• High safety rating 

Cons: 

• High cost of living 
• High humidity 
• Traffic 

FAQs 

What is the most expensive neighborhood in Boca Raton, FL? 

The most expensive neighborhood in Boca Raton is the Royal Palm Yacht and Country Club, the most expensive gated community in the country. 

Is Boca Raton an affluent area? 

Located within Palm Beach County, Boca Raton is considered an affluent area, with the cost of living 14% higher than the national average. 

Is Boca Raton a good place to live for families? 

Offering a suburban and laid-back lifestyle, Boca Raton is an ideal place for families due to its safe neighborhoods and fun things to do for all ages. 

Moving to Boca Raton, FL - The Bottom Line

Boca Raton, Florida, is a beautiful coastal city with amazing weather, flourishing job opportunities, top-of-the-line education, and never-ending outdoor adventures. Though you may spot an alligator now and then, the city is far from dangerous.

If you have decided that Boca Raton is the right city for you, contact one of our knowledgeable and experienced Realty Specialists to aid and guide you through the home-buying process. Once you have decided on a property type and have figured out your budget, our team will help you find your dream home. Contact us today!