West Palm Beach FL downtown

2021 Top 100 Best Places to Live In America Sponsored by:

UPDATE: Check out our new 2023 Best Cities to Live in the U.S. list.

liv score
655
How We Calculate Our Data
Civics 41
Demographics 86
Economy 53
Education 60
Health 47
Housing 39
Infrastructure 41

#97. West Palm Beach, FL

Located along Florida’s Atlantic Coast, West Palm Beach is one of the most visited destinations in South Florida. But why not turn this vacation destination into your full-time residence? Lake Worth Lagoon separates West Palm Beach, FL from the affluent Palm Beach. West Palm Beach has a vibrant downtown area with a wide array of dining options, along with some of the best shopping in the region. Animal lovers can spend days at the area’s zoos, aquariums and animal sanctuaries. With sunny skies and picture-perfect weather, West Palm Beach is a destination enjoyed year-round. 

Top Colleges/Universities: Palm Beach State College & Palm Beach Atlantic University

Top Industries & Employers: West Palm Beach is the region’s employment center with major sectors that include tourism, health care, construction, finance, insurance and education. 

Weekend Plans: Manatee Lagoon is one of the best places to see Florida’s 2,000-pound sea cows. 

Favorite Place to Feast: The colorful Malakor Thai Cafe serves traditional Thai dishes along with a long list of fresh sushi. 

Beloved Beverage: Sip on a kiwi mojito at the breezy retro Avocado Grill. 

Outdoorsy Activity: If you can tear yourself away from the beaches, head to Mounts Botanical Garden, West Palm Beach’s largest garden with more than 2,000 plants that originated in six continents.

Rooftop Bar: Roxy’s Pub is a comfortable Irish-themed pub with 64 tap beers to choose from while you enjoy the views of downtown West Palm Beach

Why Your Pet Will Love It, Too: Salty Dog Paddle offers dog-friendly SUP lessons. 

Remote Work Perk: After a long workday, young professionals flock to Clematis Street for happy hour hopping.

One More Thing … A bunker created to house President John F. Kennedy in the event of a nuclear attack while he was vacationing is located just off the coast of West Palm Beach.

– Brittany Anas

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