Thinking about moving to Palm Beach County? The palm trees and turquoise water are calling, but you also want a clear plan for the admin, utilities, and local logistics that come with a big move. You deserve a simple checklist that saves time, avoids surprises, and helps you settle in with confidence. This guide walks you through every key step, from your first 30 days to hurricane prep and move-in day details. Let’s dive in.
Your first 30 days in Florida
Driver license and vehicle registration
You generally have 30 days after establishing Florida residency to get a Florida driver license and register your vehicles. Bring your current license, proof of identity and Social Security, and two proofs of Florida address. Make an appointment and review requirements in the Palm Beach County Tax Collector’s Welcome Guide.
Voter registration
You can register when you obtain your Florida license or online through the state portal. Plan to register at least 29 days before an election. Local office details and deadlines are noted in the county tax collector’s Welcome Guide.
Save on property taxes
Homestead exemption basics
If this is your primary residence, Florida’s homestead exemption can reduce your taxable value by up to $50,000. File by March 1 of the tax year you want it to apply. Learn about forms and documents through the Palm Beach County Property Appraiser FAQs.
Save Our Homes and portability
Once you have a homestead, the Save Our Homes cap limits how much your assessed value can increase each year. If you are moving from another Florida homestead, you may be able to transfer part of your cap savings to your new home. Contact the Palm Beach County Property Appraiser using their FAQs to estimate potential portability before you close.
Insurance you will need
Homeowners and wind coverage
Insurance can be costlier in coastal counties. Shop policies early, provide your roof age and any wind-mitigation features, and compare multiple quotes. Some owners use Citizens as a last resort. Recent changes are reshaping options, so review current guidance on Florida’s market and savings opportunities, including wind-mitigation discounts, from this state-focused overview of the Florida home insurance market.
Flood insurance and new FEMA maps
Standard homeowners policies do not include flood coverage. Lenders require flood insurance if the property is in a Special Flood Hazard Area. FEMA’s updated maps took effect in late 2024 and changed some risk zones, so check the exact address before you buy. Start with the county’s flood zone update page.
Set up utilities and services
Electricity
Florida Power & Light serves most of Palm Beach County. You can request same-day connections when you submit early in the day. Expect identity verification and a possible deposit. Start or transfer service through FPL’s Start, Stop, Move page.
Water and sewer
Service varies by city. Some areas use Palm Beach County Water Utilities while cities like Boca Raton, West Palm Beach, Delray Beach, Jupiter, and Boynton Beach run their own systems. To see who serves your address, use this tool to check your water utility by address, then open or transfer service directly with that utility.
Trash and recycling
Pickup schedules and bulk rules vary by municipality and by condo or HOA. Check your city’s website for collection days and any move-in bulk pickup rules. If you are in a condo, ask management about disposal rooms, move fees, and scheduled bulk days.
Internet and TV
Availability depends on your street. Major providers include Xfinity/Comcast and AT&T, plus satellite options. Use a provider lookup to check internet availability by address and schedule installation as soon as you know your move date.
Plan your move-in day
Permits, HOAs, and elevators
Downtown and metered areas often require a temporary no-parking or street-occupancy permit for moving trucks. Many condos require elevator reservations, a certificate of insurance from your mover, and a move fee. Reserve these items 2 or more weeks before move day. Learn about typical permit processes and pricing through this temporary no-parking permit resource.
Choose a mover carefully
Get at least three written estimates. For interstate moves, verify the mover with FMCSA. For in-state moves, check Florida registration and complaint records. Review common fees in writing and watch for red flags or vague quotes. See consumer tips tied to FMCSA and FDACS in this guide on making a smooth, safe move.
Hurricane readiness checklist
Before the season
Hurricane season runs June through November. Document roof age, keep records of shutters or impact windows, and elevate critical equipment where possible. Sign up for AlertPBC and learn your evacuation zone using the county’s emergency management resources.
When a storm threatens
Top off fuel, test generators safely, and secure outdoor items. Review your evacuation plan and locate shelters or special needs options if applicable. Keep insurance documents and photos of your home’s condition in a safe, accessible place.
Schools, transit, and healthcare
Schools and enrollment
The School District of Palm Beach County is one of the largest in the nation. For enrollment, prepare proof of residency, immunization records, and prior school records. Contact the district or your local school for magnet or special program timelines.
Getting around
You will find robust regional access along I-95, Florida’s Turnpike, and US-1. Palm Tran offers countywide bus service. Tri-Rail connects to Miami and Fort Lauderdale, and Brightline provides intercity rail with stations in West Palm Beach and Boca Raton.
Healthcare
Major local hospitals include Boca Raton Regional Hospital, Delray Medical Center, Jupiter Medical Center, St. Mary’s Medical Center, and Good Samaritan Medical Center. If you have ongoing care needs, check primary care availability and your insurance network before moving. You can read about the Boca Raton Regional Hospital and Baptist partnership in this press update.
Quick timeline checklist
8+ weeks out
- Research neighborhoods and commute patterns.
- Get mortgage pre-approval if buying.
- Gather mover quotes and verify licensing for interstate or in-state moves.
4 to 6 weeks out
- Book movers and reserve building elevators or loading docks.
- Request any street or meter permits for the moving truck.
- Schedule electric, water, and internet start dates.
2 to 3 weeks out
- File address changes and notify banks, insurance, and healthcare providers.
- Transfer medical, school, and pet records.
- Shop homeowners and flood insurance and secure proof of coverage.
- Check the property’s flood zone after the FEMA map update.
1 week out
- Confirm mover arrival time and parking.
- Pack an essentials box and secure valuables.
- Photograph your home’s condition and gather original documents.
Move day
- Post any permit signs and be on site to direct movers.
- Keep documents with you, not on the truck.
- Confirm that electricity, water, and internet are active.
Palm Beach County snapshot
Palm Beach County is one of Florida’s largest counties with an estimated 1,582,055 residents as of July 1, 2024, according to U.S. Census QuickFacts. Home prices vary widely by neighborhood and property type, with recent county-level medians in the low to mid $400,000s. Your neighborhood and lifestyle choices will drive both pricing and commute patterns, so plan at the local level.
Ready to make the move?
You do not have to navigate this alone. Our team provides neighborhood-by-neighborhood guidance, tailored home searches, and full-service support from offer to close. If you are relocating for work, lifestyle, or a new chapter, connect with Sommar Clark to start a personalized plan.
FAQs
How long do I have to get a Florida driver license after moving to Palm Beach County?
- You generally have 30 days after establishing residency to obtain a Florida driver license and register vehicles, per the county tax collector’s Welcome Guide.
When is the deadline to file for Florida’s homestead exemption in Palm Beach County?
- File by March 1 of the tax year you want the exemption to apply, and review forms and FAQs with the Palm Beach County Property Appraiser here.
Do I need flood insurance when buying a home in Palm Beach County?
- Lenders require it if the home is in a Special Flood Hazard Area, and FEMA’s late 2024 map update changed some zones, so check the address using the county’s flood zone update page.
Who provides electricity in Palm Beach County and how fast can I start service?
- Florida Power & Light serves most of the county, and same-day connections are often available if you request early through FPL’s Start, Stop, Move page.
Do I need a permit to park a moving truck on the street in West Palm Beach or nearby cities?
- Many downtown and metered areas require a temporary no-parking or occupancy permit, and condos often require elevator reservations and proof of mover insurance; see this permit resource and plan 2 or more weeks ahead.
