If you are moving to Palm Coast in 2026, you are in very good company — this is one of the fastest-growing cities in Florida, and for good reason. As a family-run brokerage, Charles Umpenhour, Inc. has helped countless newcomers settle in, and we put everything we tell them into this one guide.
Palm Coast offers beaches, canals, trails, and value, all within reach of Daytona Beach, St. Augustine, and Jacksonville. Here is what you need to know before the moving truck arrives.
Why people keep moving here
The growth is striking. Palm Coast’s population is around 115,000 in 2026, up more than 28% since the 2020 census and still climbing roughly 3.8% a year, according to the Palm Coast population data.
Retirees, remote workers, and families are drawn by the coastal lifestyle and the relative affordability — a combination that is getting harder to find in Florida.
Cost of living
For many newcomers, the budget math works. Palm Coast runs about 4% below the national average for cost of living and roughly 13% below the typical Florida city, helped by Florida’s lack of a state income tax.
Housing is the biggest driver of that affordability; you can review demographics and household data on the U.S. Census page for Palm Coast, where the median household income sits around $77,350 and the median age is about 50.
The housing market for newcomers
Timing is on your side. Inventory is up about 21% year over year and the median sale price is near $359,000, giving buyers room to negotiate. Our Palm Coast housing market update keeps you current month to month.
Once you know your budget, explore neighbourhoods across our Palm Coast communities — from canal homes to gated golf living in Grand Haven.
Choosing your neighbourhood
Palm Coast is organized into lettered sections and planned communities, each with a different feel:
- Waterfront sections (F and C): saltwater canals with ocean access for boaters
- Grand Haven: gated, Jack Nicklaus golf, resort amenities
- Indian Trails and Cypress Knoll: family-friendly, established
- The Hammock: oceanfront and luxury near the beach
Not sure whether a city or a beach town fits you better? Our Palm Coast vs Flagler Beach comparison settles the debate for a lot of newcomers.
Getting around
One practical heads-up: Palm Coast is car-dependent, scoring only about 6 on Walk Score. The upside is more than 130 miles of trails and roughly 70 miles of canals, plus quick I-95 access for regional trips. Plan on a car for daily errands.
Schools and family life
Flagler County Schools serve the city, including Flagler-Palm Coast High School. Check zoning and current ratings for any home you consider, since attendance areas vary by section.
Beyond school, life here centers on the outdoors — beaches a short drive away, golf, fishing, kayaking the canals, and a steady calendar of community events.
A quick relocation checklist
- Get pre-approved so you can shop with confidence.
- Pick your must-haves: water access, schools, gated, or budget.
- Tour neighbourhoods in person (or virtually with our team).
- Line up movers and update your address and Florida documents.
- Lean on a local agent who knows every section.
If you are weighing whether to buy now or rent first, our home buyers’ resources and property management guide can help you decide.
When you are ready, reach out to Charles Umpenhour, Inc. and let our family give yours a soft landing in Palm Coast.
FAQ
Is Palm Coast a good place to live?
Yes — Palm Coast is popular for its coastal lifestyle, canals and trails, below-average cost of living, and proximity to beaches and bigger cities, which is why its population keeps growing quickly.
How much does it cost to live in Palm Coast?
Palm Coast’s overall cost of living runs about 4% below the national average and roughly 13% below the typical Florida city, with relatively affordable housing and no state income tax helping budgets stretch further.
What should I know before moving to Palm Coast?
Plan for a car-dependent layout, pick the section that fits your lifestyle (waterfront, gated golf, or family neighbourhood), and use today’s higher inventory and steady prices to negotiate a good deal on your new home.
Planning your move? Call Charles Umpenhour, Inc. at (386) 447-4663 or connect with our family team through cuirealestate.com and we will make moving to Palm Coast smooth, strategic, and stress-free.