Palm Coast Area, FL 55+ Active Adult Retirement Communities

Homebuyers looking for 55+ communities in the Palm Coast area will enjoy all of the amenities in the area. With its warm climate and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean the Palm Coast area offers a delightful coastal lifestyle. The largest cities in the area include St. Augustine, known for its rich history and charming old town; Daytona Beach, famous for its beautiful beaches and thrilling motorsports events; and Ormond Beach, offering a relaxed atmosphere and stunning natural landscapes. Whether it's exploring historic sites, enjoying waterfront activities, or simply savoring the coastal ambiance, this location provides ample opportunities for an active and fun retirement.  

For more information about visiting or moving to the Palm Coast area, the following local websites can be helpful resources:

• City of Palm Coast - Official city website
• The Daytona Beach News-Journal - Local newspaper
• Palm Coast Observer - Local newspaper
• Palm Coast & the Flagler Beaches - Official tourism site

Palm Coast Area Affordability and Cost of Living 

The Palm Coast area offers an affordable cost of living compared to other cities. The median home price in Palm Coast is a little higher than the national average but far less than other popular Florida cities. Groceries and daily essentials are also reasonably priced, often falling in line with or below the state and national averages.

Florida is known for its favorable tax climate as the state does not impose a personal income tax, including on retirement income or Social Security benefits. This can be a significant advantage for retirees the Palm Beach area 55+ communities seeking to maximize their retirement income. Florida also does not have an estate or inheritance tax, allowing individuals to pass on their assets to their loved ones without incurring additional tax burdens. Sales tax in Florida can be high but varies depending on exact location. Property taxes are on the high side but there are many exemptions available to seniors. The average property tax in Flagler County is 0.78 percent of a home's value. For more information on local taxation and specific details, you can visit the official website of the Flagler County Tax Collector.

Palm Coast Area Climate and Geography 

The Palm Coast area enjoys a pleasant climate with mild winters and warm summers, making it an appealing destination for residents seeking comfortable weather year-round. Winter temperatures typically range from the mid-40s to the low 60s providing a respite from harsh winter conditions found in many other parts of the country. 

Summers in Palm Coast bring average temperatures ranging from the low 70s to the high 80s with humidity between 70 and 90 percent. However the area benefits from its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, which helps to moderate the heat and humidity. The area experiences an average annual rainfall of around 52 inches with the wettest months typically occurring during the summer season.

The Palm Coast area is nestled along the Atlantic coastline, providing residents with access to stunning beaches and breathtaking ocean views. The region is known for its picturesque landscapes, featuring a blend of lush greenery, palm trees, and waterways. The Intracoastal Waterway runs parallel to the coastline, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and scenic cruises. Additionally, within a short distance, residents can explore natural wonders such as the Tomoka River State Park and the Bulow Creek State Park, which boast hiking trails, wildlife sightings, and serene picnic areas. With its coastal beauty and diverse ecosystem, the 55+ communities in the Palm Coast area are a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Recreation, Shopping, and Entertainment Near Palm Coast Area 

The Palm Coast, FL area offers a wide array of recreational activities, cultural events, shopping destinations, and entertainment options for residents and visitors to enjoy. Indulge in the following experiences and attractions that make Palm Coast a truly remarkable place to live:

Golf and Racquet Sports

• Hammock Beach Resort Ocean Course in Palm Coast
• Palm Harbor Golf Club in Palm Coast
• Cypress Knoll Golf & Country Club in Palm Coast
• Palm Coast Tennis Center

Hiking, Biking, and Boating

• Graham Swamp Conservation Area in Flagler Beach
• Linear Park in Palm Coast
• Lehigh Trail in Palm Coast
• Intracoastal Waterway in Palm Coast

Museums and Historical Sites

• Florida Agricultural Museum in Palm Coast
• Flagler Beach Historical Museum in Flagler Beach
• Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park in Ormond Beach
• Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse & Museum in Ponce Inlet

Performing Arts

• Flagler Playhouse in Bunnell
• Daytona Playhouse in Daytona Beach
• Athens Theatre in DeLand
• Peabody Auditorium in Daytona Beach

Shopping

• Palm Coast Landing Shopping Center
• European Village in Palm Coast
• Island Walk Shopping Center in Palm Coast
• Tanger Outlets in Daytona Beach

Parks and Gardens

• Washington Oaks Gardens State Park in Palm Coast
• James F. Holland Memorial Park in Palm Coast
• Central Park in Town Center in Palm Coast
• Herschel King Park in Palm Coast

Festivals and Fairs

• Palm Coast Seafood Festival
• Flagler Beach First Friday
• Greek Festival in Daytona Beach
• Deland Fall Festival of the Arts

Palm Coast Area Health and Wellness 

The Palm Coast, FL area offers excellent opportunities for health and wellness, making it an ideal location for those looking to prioritize their well-being. The following hospitals serve the area:

• AdventHealth Palm Coast: This comprehensive medical center in Palm Coast provides a range of services, including emergency care, specialized clinics, and advanced medical treatments. 
• Halifax Health Medical Center: Located in nearby Daytona Beach, this hospital offers a wide range of medical services, including emergency care, specialized treatments, and comprehensive healthcare programs.

The Palm Coast area offers various options for self-care and maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle. Fitness centers, yoga studios, and wellness centers are scattered throughout the region, providing opportunities for physical activity, relaxation, and self-improvement. Residents can also take advantage of beautiful walking and biking trails, such as those found in Graham Swamp Conservation Area and Lehigh Trail, to stay active while enjoying the natural surroundings.

For those looking to improve or maintain health through healthy eating the Palm Coast area hosts various farmers markets, including the Flagler Beach Farmers Market, which offers fresh produce, artisanal food, and other local products. These markets provide an opportunity for residents to support local agriculture while promoting a healthy and sustainable lifestyle.

Recommended Itinerary for Visiting Palm Coast Area 55+ Communities

Considering moving to a 55+ community in the Palm Coast area? Planning a visit to explore the region and its potential as your future home is a smart move. This 2-day itinerary will give you a taste of what the area has to offer and help you gather valuable insights.

Day One

Morning:

• Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Metro Diner in Palm Coast, known for its delicious comfort food. 
• Visit Washington Oaks Gardens State Park, home to stunning formal gardens, unique coquina rock formations, and scenic nature trails.

Afternoon:

• Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Oceanside Bar & Grill in Flagler Beach, a beachfront eatery offering a diverse menu and oceanfront seating. 
• Visit the Flagler Beach Historical Museum to learn about the area's rich history and culture.

Evening:

• Indulge in a delightful dinner at Finn's Beachside Pub in Flagler Beach, which serves fresh seafood and classic American dishes in a casual beachfront setting. 
• Take a stroll along the beautiful Flagler Beach, enjoying the serene sunset views and fresh sea breeze.

Day Two

Morning:

• Start your day with a delicious breakfast crepe and coffee at La Crepêrie Kafe in Palm Coast.
• Meet with your local 55places expert retirement community partner agent to discuss your retirement goals, preferences, and tour potential retirement communities. This personalized meeting will provide valuable insights and guidance for your retirement planning.

Afternoon:

• Enjoy lunch at Burrito Works Taco Shop in Palm Coast, serving delicious Mexican cuisine in a casual setting. 
• Explore European Village, an enchanting Mediterranean-inspired shopping and dining destination with boutique shops, restaurants, and cafes. 

Evening:

• Indulge in a delightful dinner at Delfinos Italian Chophouse in Palm Coast, renowned for its authentic Italian flavors and cozy ambiance.

Getting to the Palm Coast, FL Area

Getting to the Palm Coast, FL area is convenient, whether you're traveling from nearby cities or across the country. Here are the directions and transportation options for reaching the region:

Driving:

• If you're driving from the north, take Interstate 95 (I-95) southbound. This major highway runs parallel to the East Coast and provides direct access to Palm Coast.
• If you're coming from the west, take State Road 100 (SR-100) eastbound, which connects to Palm Coast.

Flying:

The nearest major airport to Palm Coast is Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB), located approximately 31 miles south of the area. Airlines serving this airport include Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, and United Airlines. Alternatively, Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) is located about 86 miles north of Palm Coast and offers a wider range of flight options. It serves as a hub for airlines such as Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, and Southwest Airlines. 

By Train or Bus:

While there are no direct train or bus stations in Palm Coast, visitors can travel to nearby cities and utilize ground transportation to reach the area. The closest Amtrak train station is in DeLand, approximately 28 miles west of Palm Coast. For bus travel, Greyhound offers service to Daytona Beach, located about 30 miles south of Palm Coast.