Highland Beach Real Estate: Palm Beach County

The median list price in Highland Beach is approximately $1,800,000 as of 2026. Oceanfront condominiums range from $800K for smaller units to $5M+ for large penthouses. Single-family oceanfront estates range from $3M to $15M+. Intracoastal-front homes start around $1.5M. Highland Beach is one of the highest-priced residential markets in Palm Beach County.

Highland Beach is exclusively residential: no hotels, no retail, no restaurants, no commercial development of any kind. This is not an accident but a deliberate municipal policy that the town has maintained for decades. Boca Raton and Delray Beach both have extensive commercial districts. Highland Beach is purely a luxury residential enclave that happens to sit between two of South Florida's most vibrant cities.

Highland Beach is primarily luxury oceanfront condominiums: ranging from mid-rise boutique buildings to full-service high-rises with concierge, pools, tennis, and private beach access. Single-family homes account for a smaller portion of inventory, located on the Intracoastal side or on oceanfront lots. There are no apartment complexes or affordable housing segments: the entire town operates at the luxury tier.

Highland Beach spans approximately 2 miles of barrier island between Boca Raton to the south and Delray Beach to the north. The town covers roughly 1.2 square miles total. Its tiny size creates permanent supply constraints: there is no room for new development beyond replacing existing structures. This scarcity is a fundamental driver of long-term value.

Highland Beach is a low-velocity, high-value market. Fewer than 100-150 transactions occur annually given the limited inventory. Days on market average 60-120 days for condos and 90-180 days for estates due to price points and the specific buyer profile. Well-priced oceanfront units move faster. The market appreciated approximately 50-70% from 2019 to 2024 and has since stabilized with moderate 3-5% annual gains.

Yes: Highland Beach condominium buildings typically offer resort-caliber amenities: direct private beach access, oceanfront pools and hot tubs, fitness centers, tennis or pickleball courts, social rooms, concierge or doorman services, secured parking, and boat storage at some complexes. Many buildings have been renovated in recent years to modern luxury standards.

Rental policies vary by building and are governed by individual condo association rules. Many Highland Beach buildings allow rentals but with minimum lease terms: typically 3 to 6 months minimum, with seasonal short-term rentals often restricted. Some buildings are more investor-friendly. Always review the condo docs and HOA rules before purchasing with rental intent. Single-family homes generally have more flexibility.

Highland Beach condo fees are substantial given the level of amenities and building maintenance required. Typical monthly fees range from $1,200 to $4,000+ per month depending on unit size and building. Fees cover building insurance, exterior maintenance, amenities, reserves, and staff. Many buildings have recently assessed special fees for milestone inspections and structural upgrades under Florida's post-Surfside legislation.

Highland Beach sits directly between Boca Raton (south town limit immediately adjacent) and Delray Beach (north town limit immediately adjacent). Boca Raton's luxury retail at Town Center Mall and Mizner Park is 10-15 minutes. Delray Beach's renowned Atlantic Avenue dining and nightlife district is 5-10 minutes north. Residents enjoy the serenity of Highland Beach with immediate access to two vibrant cities.

Highland Beach properties are assessed and taxed by Palm Beach County. For a $2M oceanfront condo, annual property taxes typically range from $25,000 to $45,000 depending on homestead status and assessment. Florida's homestead exemption and Save Our Homes cap benefit primary residents significantly. Non-homesteaded investment properties are assessed at full market value annually.

Highland Beach has one of the lowest crime rates in Palm Beach County. The barrier island geography with limited entry points, low population density, active residents, and dedicated Palm Beach County Sheriff patrol create an exceptionally secure environment. Oceanfront buildings add their own layer of security with controlled access, doormen, and surveillance systems. Safety is consistently cited as a top reason buyers choose Highland Beach.

Highland Beach has numerous notable luxury buildings along AIA including Toscana, Mykonos, Boca Highland, Renaissance, Brigadoon, and Villa Magna. Each building has a distinct character: some are boutique and intimate, others are full-service high-rises with extensive amenities. The right building depends on buyer preferences for size, floor, amenities, and rental policy. Our Highland Beach specialists can match you to the right community.

Some Highland Beach properties on the Intracoastal Waterway side offer private dock access and boat storage. The Boca Raton Inlet to the south provides ocean access for boaters. Intracoastal-front homes and some condo buildings offer slip rentals or marina access. For buyers prioritizing both ocean views and boating, the Intracoastal side of Highland Beach delivers dual-water lifestyle.

Florida's milestone inspection and structural integrity reserve study requirements enacted post-Surfside have significantly impacted Highland Beach's older building stock. Many buildings have completed or are undergoing inspections, repairs, and reserve funding increases. Some buildings have levied special assessments. While this has temporarily increased buyer due diligence requirements, it has also strengthened building quality and long-term safety: a net positive for property values.

Highland Beach offers the same oceanfront luxury as Boca Raton's barrier island but in a quieter, more private, exclusively residential setting. There are no tourists, no commercial activity, and no transient traffic. Some buyers find Boca Raton's oceanfront corridor more active and visible than desired. Highland Beach is the choice for buyers who want maximum luxury with maximum privacy: and are willing to have Boca and Delray minutes away rather than steps away.