What is the Property Tax Rate in Palm Beach County?

Based on HomeLight’s analysis of publicly available data, the average effective property tax rate for a primary residence in Palm Beach County is approximately 0.88% of its estimated value. This is lower than the national average of 0.90%.

For example, with a 0.88% effective tax rate, a homeowner with a $640,000 home might pay around $5,632in annual property taxes.

An effective property tax rate represents the actual percentage of a property’s market value that a homeowner pays in taxes, considering the assessed value and any exemptions or deductions.

Note: HomeLight’s Palm Beach County property tax calculator provides a ballpark estimate for a primary residence using average rates. Your tax can vary based on location and the specific taxing districts (e.g., schools, fire districts, and libraries) that apply to your parcel. For a precise number, contact the Palm Beach County Property Appraiser.

Step One: Consult with a Trusted Buyer's Agent

Tell us a little bit about your plans (where you’re looking to buy and when you want to make a purchase), and we’ll connect you with top-rated buyer’s agents in your area. It takes only a few minutes, and it’s free.

Are There Property Tax Exemptions in Palm Beach County?

Homeowners in Palm Beach County may qualify for several property tax exemptions that can lower their tax bill. These are offered through the Palm Beach County Property Appraiser.

Florida residents can apply for a homestead exemption of up to $50,000 off the property’s taxable value. Additional exemptions for senior citizens, first responders, veterans, or disabled individuals are also possible, provided the homestead exemption qualification is met.

When Are Palm Beach County Property Taxes Due?

Property taxes in Palm Beach County are billed annually and are due by March 31. If paid later, they will be considered delinquent. Property taxes are first assessed in November, and if paid in November, a 4% discount will be applied. This will apply in December, January, and February, each with a smaller discount of 3%, 2%, and 1%, respectively.

What Do Property Taxes Pay For in Palm Beach County?

Local property taxes in Palm Beach County pay for important local services, including:

  • Public schools
  • Police, fire, and EMS services
  • Roads, streets, and traffic signals
  • Parks, libraries, and community centers
  • City and county government operations
  • Infrastructure like water, sewer, and trash services
  • Repayment of local bond projects (such as transit and school improvements)

Yes, You Can Buy Before You Sell. Why Move Twice?

Through our Buy Before You Sell program, HomeLight can help you unlock a portion of your equity upfront to put toward your next home. You can then make a strong offer on your next home with no home sale contingency.

What Does It Cost to Buy a Home in Palm Beach County?

How Much House Can You Afford?

Affordability in Palm Beach County depends on your income, debt, credit score, and mortgage rate. With a median household income of around $81,115 in the Golf Capital of Florida, a buyer might afford a home in the $260,000–$271,000 range using standard debt-to-income guidelines. However, many buyers need dual incomes or additional savings to qualify, with the Palm Beach County median home price hovering at $640,000.

Use HomeLight’s Home Affordability Calculator to estimate your budget based on your income, debts, and current rates.

What Down Payment Will You Need in Palm Beach County?

According to Attom Data, the average down payment on a house in Palm Beach County is 16.9%. However, down payment amounts vary widely depending on loan type and credit score. While 20% used to be the expected standard, many buyers put down between 5% and 15%, with 3% options available for FHA and some conventional first-time buyer loans.

For a $640,000 home, here’s what your down payment could look like:

  • 3% down = $19,200
  • 5% down = $32,000
  • 10% down = $64,000
  • 15% down = $96,000
  • 20% down = $128,000

Try HomeLight’s Down Payment Calculator to see how different down payments affect your monthly payment and loan size.

How Much Are Closing Costs in Palm Beach County?

Buyers in Palm Beach County can expect to pay about 2% to 5% of the purchase price in closing costs. These may include:

  • Loan origination and underwriting fees
  • Title insurance and escrow fees
  • Appraisal and inspection costs
  • Prepaid property taxes and homeowners’ insurance
  • Filing and recording fees

For a $640,000 home, that means estimated closing costs of $12,800 to $32,000. Use HomeLight’s Closing Costs Calculator to get a personalized estimate based on your expected Palm Beach County home purchase price.

How To Find a Trusted Palm Beach County Real Estate Agent

An experienced Palm Beach County agent can help you understand local tax rates, school districts, and development trends — and guide you toward neighborhoods that fit your lifestyle and budget.

HomeLight’s free Agent Match tool uses data from over 27 million transactions and thousands of verified reviews to match you with top Palm Beach County agents based on real performance, not paid ads.

Tell us a little about your buying plans and get matched today with no obligation.

Additional resources when searching for a trusted buyer’s agent in Palm Beach County:

Buying and Selling? Consider “Buy Before You Sell”

If you’re buying a new home in Palm Beach County but need to sell your current property first, HomeLight’s Buy Before You Sell program can simplify the entire process. This modern solution helps you unlock equity from your current home so you can make a non-contingent offer on your new home — and only move once. Watch the short video below to see how it works.