Thinking about packing up and making North Florida your new home base? Whether you fell in love with our cinnamon-sand beaches, friendly communities, or simply crave a “no snow shovel required” lifestyle, I’m here to give you the deep-dive insider’s guide I wish every buyer had—from moving checklists to hospital systems and life’s little essentials. Pull up a chair—let’s make this move a breeze.
Why Palm Coast & Flagler Beach? (Hint: It’s Not Just the Weather)
After nearly two decades in North Florida, I’ve seen firsthand why so many people choose Palm Coast and Flagler Beach:
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Uncrowded beaches and water access for boaters, surfers, and sandcastle architects alike
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Family-friendly neighborhoods and laid-back, “everyone knows your barista and your realtor” vibes
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Affordable coastal living compared to most of the sunshine state
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Quick drives to major cities—without paying big-city prices
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Rich outdoor recreation, a growing food scene, and no snow (Did I mention NO snow?)
If you’ve scrolled Zillow listings, peeked at our pumpkin patches, or Googled “best small towns in Florida for families,” you’re already on the right path.
How Far Is Palm Coast from…Everything?
One of the perks here: you can enjoy a true small-town feel with A-list connectivity. Here’s how Palm Coast stacks up for travelers and visiting friends:
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Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB): ~30 miles, 35-40 minutes—small but efficient, great for East Coast flights
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Orlando International Airport (MCO): ~85 miles, 75-90 minutes—major hub, direct flights coast-to-coast and international
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Jacksonville International Airport (JAX): ~75 miles, about 1 hour 15 minutes - major hug, direct flights coast - coast
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Flagler County Airport: Small general aviation airport for private flights and charters
Pro tip: If you’re splitting vacation visits or work trips between cities, Palm Coast puts you right in the sweet spot for flexibility.
The Hospital Rundown: Your Health, Covered
You want smart choices for healthcare—and so do we! Here’s what’s in your backyard (or a quick drive down the interstate):
In and Near Palm Coast & Flagler Beach
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AdventHealth Palm Coast: Our go-to general, surgical, and emergency hospital right in town. Full-service ER and modern facilities. A second AdventHealth hospital was just built in 2024 to serve Palm Coast! New, clean and amazing staff!
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UF Health Flagler Hospital (St. Augustine): 30 minutes north, highly rated for heart, ortho, and maternity care.
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Halifax Health Medical Center (Daytona Beach): ~40 minutes south, large regional facility—level II trauma and extensive women’s health.
Jacksonville — Big City Options (~1 hours)
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Baptist Medical Center Downtown/Beaches
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Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside
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Mayo Clinic Florida Hospital
Kids need top-tier care? -
Wolfson Children's Hospital: Regional leader for pediatric care, neonatal, and specialty services.
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Baptist Medical Center for Women: Leading OB/GYN and women’s health provider.
From urgent care to world-class specialists and children’s hospitals, you’re more covered here than SPF 50 in July.
Schools: What Parents Need to Know
Flagler Schools are “small town but mighty”:
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Most rank above Florida state averages for academics and safety.
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Family-favorite: Flagler Palm Coast High School (see current rankings).
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Magnet and choice programs in science, tech, and arts.
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Growing options for private and charter schools as families keep discovering Flagler.
Want a deep-dive on school stats before you buy? Check out the latest school reviews or see best public schools for 2025.
The Cost of Living Answers, No Spin
Compared to most coastal cities, Palm Coast wins on value:
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Median home price: $350,000–$400,000 (luxury and budget picks available)
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Rent: $1,800–$2,000/mo for 2–3 beds, apartments from $1,000+
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Utilities: Electric $150–$220/month (FPL), water $50–$100, reliable internet (AT&T, Spectrum) $50–$100/month
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Groceries: 8–10% less than Florida metro averages (cheaper produce, jackpot!)
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Taxes: 1.04% effective property tax—homestead exemption for primary residents
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Insurance: Varies, but plan for $1,000–$1,700/year (flood insurance if on the water)
For the full breakdown, here’s our Cost of Living in Palm Coast, FL (2025 Edition).
Local Vibe & Daily Life
Palm Coast: Laid back, suburban, tons of family activities, walking trails, golf, and boating. Safe, clean, unbeatable sunsets.
Flagler Beach: Eclectic “old Florida” surf town, dog-friendly, locally owned shops and restaurants, farmers markets, and street festivals.
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Outdoor Perks:
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Miles of uncrowded beaches (A1A!)
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Kayak and fishing on the Intracoastal
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State parks for hiking, biking, and classic Florida wildlife
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Events:
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“First Friday” downtown Flagler Beach
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Art walks, live music on the pier, community yoga on the sand
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Check out our guide to the best walking trails and gyms in Palm Coast for active living newcomers.
What About Work & Commute?
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Many folks here work remotely or make easy drives to Daytona, Jacksonville, and even Orlando thanks to I-95.
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Local growth means more jobs in healthcare, education, trades, and small business.
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Plenty of coworking, cafes, and business resources—plus lightning-fast internet.
Pro Tips for Relocating
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Check out neighborhoods in person if you can: some are hidden gems you won’t find online.
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If you see a rental (or a home for sale) you love, move quick: the market moves fast, especially on great school zones and waterfronts!
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Ask about HOA fees and rules before you buy—some are relaxed, some are “no flamingos in the yard, ever.”
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For insurance, get quotes before you sign: storm exposure and proximity to water matter.
Useful Links for Your Move
Your Next Step: Let’s Make It Happen
When you’re ready to make the leap—or you have 147 more questions, from “What’s the best pizza place?” to “Can I get fiber internet on my street?”—I’m here with answers, local expertise, and a genuinely caffeinated dedication to making your move easy.
Want to check out homes for sale, see more moving tips, or just talk it out?
I can’t wait to welcome you to the Palm Coast & Flagler Beach family—flip-flops and all.
