City of Palm Coast ( Flagler County )
Palm Coast is a city located in Flagler County, Florida, along the state’s northeast coast. It’s known for its scenic beauty, parks, and proximity to both beaches and natural preserves.
1. Geography and Location
Location: Palm Coast is situated between St. Augustine to the north and Daytona Beach to the south, making it a part of the greater Jacksonville metropolitan area. It’s just a short drive from the Atlantic Ocean, giving residents and visitors easy access to beautiful beaches. Environment: The city is characterized by a mix of coastal plains, marshlands, and extensive pine forests, contributing to its lush and green environment.
2. History
Founding: Palm Coast was developed in the late 1960s by ITT Community Development Corporation as a master-planned community. The city was incorporated in 1999. Growth: Since its incorporation, Palm Coast has grown rapidly, transforming from a retirement community into a vibrant city with a diverse population.
3. Economy
Local Economy: The economy is primarily driven by healthcare, education, and retail sectors. There’s also a growing emphasis on technology and small businesses. Tourism: Tourism plays a significant role in the local economy, with visitors attracted to the city’s natural beauty, parks, golf courses, and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean.
4. Recreation and Attractions
Parks and Trails: Palm Coast is known for its extensive network of parks and trails, including the popular Linear Park, Graham Swamp Preserve, and the Waterfront Park. The city has over 125 miles of biking and walking trails. Golf: The city is a popular destination for golf enthusiasts, with several golf courses designed by famous architects like Jack Nicklaus. Beaches: Palm Coast is close to several pristine beaches, including Flagler Beach, which is known for its natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere. Cultural Sites: The city is home to various cultural sites, including the Flagler Auditorium, which hosts performances and events throughout the year.
5. Education
Schools: Palm Coast is served by the Flagler County School District, which includes several elementary, middle, and high schools. The district is known for its commitment to educational excellence. Higher Education: The city is within commuting distance to several colleges and universities, including Daytona State College and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.
6. Living in Palm Coast
Quality of Life: Palm Coast offers a high quality of life with affordable housing, low crime rates, and a strong sense of community. The city’s natural beauty, combined with its amenities and services, makes it a desirable place to live.
7. Transportation
Road Access: Palm Coast is easily accessible via Interstate 95, which runs along the east coast of Florida. Public Transportation: The city has limited public transportation options, so most residents rely on cars for commuting.
Population
- Population (2023): 102,133
- Population changes (2010 – 2020): Approx. 15% increase
- Married population (2023): 62%
- Median Age (2023): 49.3
- Homeowners compared to Renters (2022): 78% – Homeowners, 22% – Renters
- Poverty rate (2022): 9.8% compared to the US national average of 11.5%
Demographics (2022):
- White Non Hispanic: 69.8%
- Black Non Hispanic: 10.8%
- White Hispanic: 5.15%
- Multiracial Hispanic: 3.42%
- Multiracial Non Hispanic: 3%
- Asian: 2.5%
| Median household income (2022) | Avg. per capita income (2022) | Average Age (2021) | Residents over 65 (2023) | Residents under 18 (2023) | Female residents (2023) | Male residents (2023) | Median Listing Home Price (12/25) | Median Home price per sq ft (12/25) | Median Home Sale Price (12/25) | Median Rent (02/26) | 5 yr. Price change (‘19 - 11/24) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $68,824 | $37,904 | 49.7 | 29.5% | 17.6% | 51.8% | 48.2% | 400K | $211 | 362K | $1,979 | +45% |
( Prices shown reflect dates specified only )
Tax
- Property Tax Rate (2023): 0.78% of a property’s assessed fair market value
- Combined County and State Sales Tax Rate (2023): 7%
Cost of Living
- Cost of Living vs the US National Avg. (2021): Approx. the same as the US national average
- Cost of Housing compared to the Florida average (2023): Slightly Lower
- Cost of Food compared to the US national average (2023): Approx. same
- Cost of Transportation compared to the US national average (2023): Approx. same
- Cost of Healthcare compared to the US national average (2023): 6% Lower
- Cost of Utilities compared to the US national average (2023): Approx. same
Political Affiliation based on the 2024 election results ( Flagler County ):
- Republican: 63.6%
- Democrat: 35.4%
- Other: 1%
Largest Industry:
- Health Care and Social Assistance
Temperature
- Average High: 78.1°F
- Average Low: 64.7°F
Coastal: Yes
Fun Facts
The Palm Coast Villas motel is one of the last buildings still in existence in Flagler County to feature 50,000 square feet of coquina rocks in its construction.
Location and Amenities
- Commute to work time: 26.7 min which is equivalent to the US national average
- I-95: 4.5 miles (7 min)
- Daytona International Airport: 34.1 miles (34 min)
- Flagler Hospital (St. Augustine): 22.8 miles (26 min)
- Downtown Daytona Beach: 30.6 miles (37 min)
- Flagler College: 27.4 miles (30 min)
- University of North Florida: 54.4 miles (47 min)
- AdventHealth Hospital:
Amenities and Attractions
- Graham Swamp Preserve: 3000 acres of protected wilderness, well known for its seven-mile long mountain bike trail. A favorite destination for naturalists, wildlife photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
- European Village Mall: A mall housed in European-style architecture, this is a popular shopping destination for both locals and tourists. A Farmers Market is held weekly at the mall.
- Golden Lion Cafe (501 N Ocean Shore Blvd): A Flagler Beach staple for more than 20 years and voted Florida’s #1 beach bar. Serves fresh seafood in a family-friendly atmosphere.
- River to Sea Preserve: Endless stretches of ocean coastline and scenic beaches. It is also home to a large variety of rivers and lakes. Activities include camping, kayaking, birdwatching, and cycling.
Short Term Rental Regulations:
**All short-term rental operations in Florida must obtain a business license from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) and a Florida Department of Revenue Certificate of Sales and Use.
| County (Tourist / Transient) Tax | YES | 5% |
|---|---|---|
| Property Inspection | NO | – |
| Land use permit | NO | – |
| Restrictions | YES | *see below |
Restrictions:
- One person per one hundred fifty (150) gross square feet of permitted living space
- Two persons per room
- One off-street parking space per three (3) guests
For more details visit – flaglercounty.gov