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Palm Beach County’s housing market demonstrated continued resilience in May 2026, with total home sales increasing year-over-year for the ninth straight month. According to statistics released by MIAMI REALTORS® + RWorld, the MIAMI MLS, and BeachesMLS, the market remains robust across multiple price segments.
Total closed sales rose 7.3% year-over-year. Single-family home transactions increased 7.7%, while condominium sales grew 6.6%. Luxury properties priced at $1 million and above climbed 15.8%, and more affordable condo sales in the $400,000 to $500,000 range increased 5.4% year-over-year.
“Palm Beach County’s status as the nation’s leading all-cash homebuying market highlights the strength of its luxury real estate market and the continued influx of wealth into the region,” said MIAMI REALTORS® + RWorld Palm Beach Regional Vice President Stacy Plean. “With West Palm Beach rapidly emerging as the Wall Street of the South and attracting businesses and new residents from around the world, Palm Beach County is poised for continued growth.”
Palm Beach County Ranks Among the Nation’s and World’s Top Markets
- West Palm Beach ranked No. 1 All-Cash Home Buying Market in the U.S. (Redfin)
- Palm Beach ranked No. 3 in the world for prime property price growth over the last five years (Knight Frank Wealth Report 2026)
- West Palm Beach ranked No. 2 America’s Fastest-Growing Millionaire Hub (USA Wealth Report 2025)
May 2026 Palm Beach County Sales Highlights
- Total home sales: +7.3% year-over-year (2,275 to 2,440)
- Single-family homes: +7.72% (1,334 to 1,437)
- Existing condos: +6.59% (941 to 1,003)
FHA Loan Limitations Continue to Restrict Condo Market
The limited availability of Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loans for many existing condominiums remains a challenge. Of the 2,397 condominium buildings across Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties, only 21 are currently approved for FHA financing — just 0.9% of South Florida condo buildings.
Positive change is coming: Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are eliminating the limited review option for many condo loans beginning August 3, 2026. These updates should create a more transparent and accessible lending environment for Florida condominium buyers and owners.
Strong Long-Term Price Appreciation in Palm Beach County
Condominium prices have appreciated 138% since 2008, rising from $135,000 to a median of $345,000. In May 2026, condo prices increased 4.55% year-over-year (from $330,000 to $345,000). Declining inventory is expected to support further price gains.
Single-family home median prices rose 5.47% year-over-year to $675,000 in May 2026. Since 2008, single-family prices have increased 125.8% (from $278,000).
Why Palm Beach County Real Estate Remains Attractive
From luxury waterfront estates to charming Delray Beach homes, Palm Beach County continues to draw buyers seeking strong investment potential, lifestyle benefits, and economic opportunity in one of America’s most dynamic markets.
Thinking about buying or selling in Palm Beach County? Whether you’re searching for homes in Delray Beach, Boca Raton, West Palm Beach, or surrounding communities, the current market offers opportunities across various price points and property types.
Contact me for a free comparative market analysis, personalized buying or selling strategy, or up-to-date neighborhood insights.
Barry Frette, Realtor® William Raveis – Florida LLC South Palm Living | Delray Beach & Palm Beach County Real Estate Expert 📍 New Downtown Delray Beach Office
