Palm Beach County Leads South Florida in Q1 2026: What the Numbers Mean for Boca, Delray & Highland Beach

The first quarter of 2026 was one of the strongest in years for Palm Beach County real estate. While other parts of South Florida saw mixed performance, our county led the region in single family sales, luxury activity, and average price growth.

For anyone considering a move into or within Boca Raton, Delray Beach, or Highland Beach, this is an important moment to understand what is driving the market and what to expect through the rest of the year.

Palm Beach County Outpaced the Region

Palm Beach County led the tri county area in Q1 2026, with single family home sales up 14.3% year over year and condo sales up 11.2%. The average sale price climbed 11% year to date, rising from roughly $924,000 to just over $1,025,000, and the median sale price moved up about 3% to $518,500.

In short, more homes are selling, and they are selling for more than they did a year ago.

Inventory Has Tightened

Inventory across the county is down roughly 8% in Q1 2026 compared to the same period in 2025, and new listings are down about 11%. With fewer homes coming onto the market and steady buyer demand, well priced listings in desirable pockets are moving faster and often attracting multiple interested buyers.

For sellers, this is a meaningful shift in leverage. For buyers, it means preparation and quick decision making are more important than they have been in several years.

Boca Raton: Steady Demand Across Price Points

Boca Raton has continued its long standing reputation as one of the most desirable markets in South Florida. The recent median sale price has hovered around $640,000, and homes are moving more efficiently than they did at this time last year. Strong school zoning, top tier country club communities, and a mix of waterfront, downtown, and golf course living continue to draw buyers from the Northeast, the Midwest, and around the world.

Two segments are especially active right now: family homes in the $750,000 to $1.5M range, and the entry level luxury market between $1.5M and $3M.

Delray Beach: Lifestyle Driven Demand Stays Strong

Delray Beach remains the lifestyle anchor of southern Palm Beach County. Walkable Atlantic Avenue, the booming Sundy Village development, and a thriving restaurant and arts scene continue to draw buyers who want a true downtown experience with the beach just minutes away.

Recent median sale prices have been hovering in the mid $500s, and well presented homes near the Avenue or east of Federal Highway are still attracting strong attention. Buyers focused on Delray should be ready to act quickly on the most desirable streets, especially east of Swinton Avenue and in coveted neighborhoods like Lake Ida and Tropic Isle.

Highland Beach: A Quiet Outperformer

Highland Beach is unique. With only three miles of coastline, no traffic lights, and a limited supply of homes and condos, the town's market often moves on its own rhythm. Q1 2026 confirmed that demand for oceanfront and intracoastal living in Highland Beach has stayed strong, with luxury condo activity in communities like Toscana, Boca Highland Beach Club & Marina, and Coronado leading the way. Single family waterfront estates remain among the most coveted real estate in southern Palm Beach County.

For sellers in Highland Beach, the limited supply works in your favor. For buyers, patience and a clear picture of what you want are essential.

What to Watch for the Rest of 2026

A few trends to keep an eye on through the spring and summer:

• Mortgage rates: the 30 year fixed sat near 6.38% in late March, with industry forecasters projecting a possible move toward the high 5% range by year end. Even a small drop in rates tends to bring a wave of new buyers into the market.
• Luxury momentum: the $1.5M and up segment has tightened from over 12 months of supply to closer to 8 months, signaling a healthier seller's environment in luxury.
• Insurance and HOA costs: buyers and sellers should factor evolving condo assessment rules and homeowner's insurance premiums into their planning, especially in oceanfront and waterfront communities.

How to Use These Numbers

Market data tells one part of the story. The rest comes from understanding the specific street, community, or building you are considering. Average prices and county wide statistics are helpful for context, but the right strategy for your home or your search is always going to be hyperlocal.

If you are weighing a sale, a purchase, or simply exploring what is possible in Boca Raton, Delray Beach, or Highland Beach this year, I would love to walk you through the latest data for your specific neighborhood and price point.