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Frame The Importance of

Commercial Truck Insurance in West Palm Beach, FL

  • Let's face it - truckers in America have always been the backbone of our great country. They still are in modern times. On any given day, thousands of trucks traverse our highways and local roads, delivering goods and products on time so that businesses and consumers have what they need to live life. And while commercial trucking can be an incredibly lucrative way to make a living and put food on the table, it can also be risky and expensive.
  • Whether you're the owner of a fleet, an independent trucker, or have a business that uses big rigs to transport goods, you need commercial trucking insurance to protect you and your client's investments, shield you from liability, and more.
  • That's where working with a reliable truck insurance agency comes into play. Unfortunately, for many commercial truck insurance providers, serving the needs of truckers is low on the proverbial totem pole. At Independence Insurance Agency, nothing could be further from the truth.

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Insurance Agency in West Palm Beach, FL You Can Trust

Much like you pride yourself on running a successful trucking business, Independence Insurance Agency prides itself on its years of experience providing truck insurance for hardworking men and women across the country. And in our experience, insurance rates for truckers are just too high - so high, in fact, that they eat away at their bottom line, making it more difficult to run a business and make a profit. Fortunately, at Independence Insurance Agency, we provide truckers the freedom they need from astronomically high insurance rates so they can stay on the road and keep driving America forward.

As one of the most trusted commercial trucking insurance agencies in the U.S., we understand the challenges that you face daily as a trucker. We also know how important it is to protect your business. That's why we go above and beyond to find you the best-priced coverage available, whether you're an operator, own a small fleet, a large fleet, or something in between.

Commercial Truck Insurance West Palm Beach, FL

We Put Truckers First Because Others Don't

Truck Insurance West Palm Beach, FL

Truckers across the country choose to work with Independence Insurance Agency because we put their needs first before anything else. As experts in transportation insurance, we proudly offer a range of quality insurance products that are both practical and affordable for them. Our industry-leading carriers provide coverage that caters to the unique challenges faced by the trucking industry, ensuring that your business is protected at all times.

At our core, we are committed to finding the best possible price for your coverage without compromising the quality of service you deserve. The truth is, we understand how essential truckers are to the United States and take pride in making their insurance experience more streamlined and affordable.

One way we do so is by simplifying the insurance process. Our transportation specialists take the time to understand your specific needs and budget to tailor a comprehensive plan that works for you. You won't ever have to worry about cookie-cutter plans or uninterested agents when you work with our commercial trucking insurance agency. We take an educational approach to ensure that the entire big rig insurance process is quick, painless, and easy to understand. If there's something you don't understand, we're happy to take the time to explain. After all, the success and safety of your business are on the line.

Looking to the future, we are committed to providing innovative new products that cater to the ever-changing needs of truck drivers. As your one-stop shop for commercial trucking insurance, we are dedicated to your success, one policy at a time.

If you're a commercial trucker looking to ensure your rig, you can rest easy knowing that Independence Insurance Agency provides:

  • Affordable Trucking Insurance Plans for Any Budget
  • Exemplary Customer Service
  • Seasoned Transportation Specialists Who Customize Plans to Your Needs
  • A+ Carriers Across the Country
  • Simple, Easy Quote and Bind Process
  • Multiple Insurance Carriers Quoted to Find You the Best Rates
  • Truck Insurance for New Ventures

Call us or send us a message today to learn more about the best 18-wheeler insurance options for your trucking business.

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chart The Commercial Truck

Common Types of Big Rig Truck Insurance in West Palm Beach, FL

At Independence Insurance Agency, we offer several types of insurance coverage for local, intermediate, and long-haul trucking needs. Here are just a few categories of trucking insurance coverage that our agency offers.

As the foundation of your insurance policy, liability coverage is required by law in most states in the U.S. It provides coverage for damage or injuries caused to properties or other people if your 18-wheeler is responsible for the crash. Without liability coverage, it's almost impossible to drive a truck or run a trucking business without major legal consequences.

Having physical damage coverage is an essential component that shouldn't be overlooked. This insurance is responsible for covering the expenses related to repairing or replacing your truck in situations such as accidents, theft, vandalism, and other damaging events. By having this coverage, you can rest assured that your business won't be affected significantly by unexpected incidents, and you can continue running your operations smoothly even in challenging times.

For trucking companies, the goods they transport are crucial to their operations. To protect these goods from damage, loss, or theft while in transit, cargo insurance is essential. This coverage provides much-needed peace of mind for both you and your clients, allowing you to reimburse clients for any losses sustained while protecting your reputation and brand identity.

Non-Trucking Liability Insurance is designed to cover property damage or bodily injury that may occur during personal time when the driver/truck is not under dispatch. This coverage can be applied with or without a trailer and is added to a commercial policy as an endorsement.

While Independence Insurance Agency has built a reputation of excellence in serving the needs of truckers, we also offer general liability. Also known as Truckers General Liability, this coverage insures for bodily injuries or property damage that happen due to business activities that are NOT the cause of operating a truck. It covers accidents that occur in parking lots, rest stops, also while loading or unloading. General liability can also cover losses related to theft and vandalism. Most brokers and shippers will require this coverage to work with you.

Bobtail insurance is a type of coverage that is comparable to non-trucking liability, which is designed to offer protection when driving a truck without a trailer attached. This is commonly referred to as "bobtailing." With bobtail insurance, the tractor is covered at all times, even when it is not attached to a trailer, regardless of whether or not the truck is under dispatch.

Trailer interchange insurance is a must-have if you're involved in a trailer interchange agreement. This essential coverage offers protection for trailers owned by other parties that you're using under a contractual agreement. It covers damages caused by collisions, fire, theft, and vandalism, providing assurance to all parties involved.

Curious whether our commercial truck insurance agency in cityname, state offers additional coverage? The following options can be bound in your insurance policy:

  • Business Interruption Insurance
  • Reefer Breakdown Insurance
  • Occupational Accident with Contract Liability Insurance
  • Rental Reimbursement Insurance
  • Underinsured or Uninsured Motorist Insurance
  • Towing Insurance
  • Electronics Insurance
  • Much More

Three plus 3 Safe Driving Tips to

Lower the Cost of Truck Insurance in West Palm Beach, FL

Keeping your drivers safe on the road is crucial not only for their own well-being but also for the safety of other motorists and the financial stability of your business. The Department of Labor has identified the trucking industry as one of the most hazardous sectors in the U.S. In fact, trucking and logistics fleets are known for their high injury and fatality rates. By improving how safely your truckers drive, you can help reduce expenses related to claim payouts, accidents, and insurance premium hikes.

Whether you own a large fleet or you're the owner and operator of a single rig, keep these safe driving tips in mind to help lower your insurance costs.

Implement Preventative Maintenance Plans

Ensuring the safety of your drivers begins with the safety of their vehicles. Trucks and tractor-trailers that do not receive regular maintenance, such as oil and brake pad changes, are more likely to experience breakdowns while on the road. Telematics devices provide real-time insight into engine and odometer data, including fault codes.

This information enables your mechanics to create comprehensive preventative maintenance schedules based on mileage, history of previous breakdowns, days, and more. Additionally, they can receive immediate notifications for critical fault codes. By implementing routine maintenance and proactive repair schedules, you can ensure that your vehicles are in top condition, minimizing the likelihood of breakdowns, which can help reduce the cost of trucker insurance.

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Trucking Insurance West Palm Beach, FL

Practice Defensive Driving

This approach aims to mitigate the risk of fatal crashes and injuries by proactively identifying and responding to potentially dangerous situations and making informed decisions while driving. By adopting defensive driving techniques, drivers can reduce their likelihood of accidents, thereby minimizing the need for expensive repairs, claim payouts, and increased insurance premiums.

Some of the easiest ways for you or your drivers to practice safe driving include:

  • Be Wary of Blind Spots: Operating a reefer or tractor-trailer means driving high off of the ground, which can make visibility limited, especially in blind spots. To check your blind spot, look over your shoulder and out of your windows while changing lanes.
  • Be Ready for Emergencies on the Road: It's important for drivers to be ready for unexpected situations when driving, especially during long trips. They should be equipped to handle emergencies such as poor driving conditions or big rig breakdowns.
  • Use the Three-Second Rule: Truck drivers should try to maintain a three-second gap between their vehicle and the car in front of them. This means that the truck driver should reach a certain point on the road three seconds after the car in front of them has passed that same point.
  • Always Use Right and Left Turn Indicators: It's important for drivers to always use their turn signals when changing lanes or exiting highways, even if they don't see any other cars around. This is not only required by law, but it also reduces the chances of accidents occurring on the road.
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Commercial Liability Insurance For Truckers West Palm Beach, FL

Find Ways to Prevent Distracted Driving

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), distracted driving is the primary reason behind truck driver accidents. Any activity that takes a driver's attention away from the road or the steering wheel is considered distracted driving. Distractions can come in various forms, such as eating while driving or gazing at a billboard outside the window. However, the most frequent form of distracted driving is the use of cellphones, specifically texting while driving.

Assuming you or your driver's rigs are equipped with dual-facing cameras, try reviewing footage of an unsafe driving incident. Coach your drivers on ways to correct their unsafe behaviors or look up ways to do so yourself if you're the one operating the big rig. The bottom line is that when your drivers aren't distracted, they drive safer. And when they drive safer, the cost of 18-wheeler insurance in cityname, state can be reduced.

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Commercial Truck Insurance Quote West Palm Beach, FL

Ensuring the safety of your drivers begins with the safety of their vehicles. Trucks and tractor-trailers that do not receive regular maintenance, such as oil and brake pad changes, are more likely to experience breakdowns while on the road. Telematics devices provide real-time insight into engine and odometer data, including fault codes.

This information enables your mechanics to create comprehensive preventative maintenance schedules based on mileage, history of previous breakdowns, days, and more. Additionally, they can receive immediate notifications for critical fault codes. By implementing routine maintenance and proactive repair schedules, you can ensure that your vehicles are in top condition, minimizing the likelihood of breakdowns, which can help reduce the cost of trucker insurance.

Low Priced Commercial Truck Insurance West Palm Beach, FL phone Call Now

This approach aims to mitigate the risk of fatal crashes and injuries by proactively identifying and responding to potentially dangerous situations and making informed decisions while driving. By adopting defensive driving techniques, drivers can reduce their likelihood of accidents, thereby minimizing the need for expensive repairs, claim payouts, and increased insurance premiums.

Some of the easiest ways for you or your drivers to practice safe driving include:

  • Be Wary of Blind Spots: Operating a reefer or tractor-trailer means driving high off of the ground, which can make visibility limited, especially in blind spots. To check your blind spot, look over your shoulder and out of your windows while changing lanes.
  • Be Ready for Emergencies on the Road: It's important for drivers to be ready for unexpected situations when driving, especially during long trips. They should be equipped to handle emergencies such as poor driving conditions or big rig breakdowns.
  • Use the Three-Second Rule: Truck drivers should try to maintain a three-second gap between their vehicle and the car in front of them. This means that the truck driver should reach a certain point on the road three seconds after the car in front of them has passed that same point.
  • Always Use Right and Left Turn Indicators: It's important for drivers to always use their turn signals when changing lanes or exiting highways, even if they don't see any other cars around. This is not only required by law, but it also reduces the chances of accidents occurring on the road.
Commercial Truck Insurance West Palm Beach, FL phone Call Now

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), distracted driving is the primary reason behind truck driver accidents. Any activity that takes a driver's attention away from the road or the steering wheel is considered distracted driving. Distractions can come in various forms, such as eating while driving or gazing at a billboard outside the window. However, the most frequent form of distracted driving is the use of cellphones, specifically texting while driving.

Assuming you or your driver's rigs are equipped with dual-facing cameras, try reviewing footage of an unsafe driving incident. Coach your drivers on ways to correct their unsafe behaviors or look up ways to do so yourself if you're the one operating the big rig. The bottom line is that when your drivers aren't distracted, they drive safer. And when they drive safer, the cost of 18-wheeler insurance in cityname, state can be reduced.

Truck Insurance West Palm Beach, FL phone Call Now

check light FAQs About

Independence Insurance Agency

If you're looking for a commercial trucking insurance agency for your business, chances are you have some questions - and we've got answers. Keep reading to learn more about some of the most commonly asked questions we hear from truckers like you.

Why go with a "jack of all trades" when you can work with specialists who focus exclusively on transportation insurance? We have excellent relationships with major trucking insurance carriers and, as such, can provide the best assistance and reasonable rates.

Typically, companies will look at claims that date back three years or less.

We proudly work with more than 20 carriers to provide our clients with the most advantageous options at competitive prices, catering to the needs of owner-operators and big fleets alike.

Permit filings are typically done by insurance companies on the next business day. Federal (FMCSA) filings are completed online and updated immediately, while some states may take up to three weeks to process.

Independence Insurance Agency: Committed to the Trucking Industry

There's no question about it - you've got to protect your staff, your rig, and your trucking business with insurance. But choosing the right insurance partner isn't always easy. Thankfully, with Independence Insurance Agency by your side, you can rest easy knowing you're covered no matter where the road takes you. If you're in need of a commercial truck insurance agency in West Palm Beach, FL that caters to truckers like you, pick up the phone and contact one of our transportation specialists today. That way, you can get back on the road with confidence tomorrow.

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Trucking Insurance West Palm Beach, FL

Latest News in West Palm Beach, FL

Could Vanderbilt University take land once slated for UF in West Palm Beach?

Vanderbilt University could open a business school campus in downtown West Palm Beach on 7 acres of government-owned land ...

Vanderbilt University could open a business school campus in downtown West Palm Beach on 7 acres of government-owned land formerly slated for the University of Florida.

The plan, in the works for about a year, is being advanced by major real-estate developers building in West Palm Beach. This includes the Related Cos. of New York and the Frisbie Group of Palm Beach. For months, the companies' executives quietly have mined their corporate contacts and talked to elected officials about their plan to bring the Nashville private university to downtown.

Vanderbilt is ranked No. 18 among national universities, according to U.S. News & World Report.

While not an Ivy League school, Vanderbilt is known as a “Southern Ivy” because of its selective admissions process and strong academic reputation. The annual cost to attend Vanderbilt's business school, the Owen School of Management, is about $103,000.

Past coverage:Much-touted UF campus plan for downtown West Palm Beach dies, leaving huge disappointment

Related: Plan still preliminary but Vanderbilt campus would be transformative addition to West Palm Beach

In an interview on Wednesday, Related Urban Chief Executive Ken Himmel cautioned that the plan is not yet finalized. But he said having a Vanderbilt University business school campus in West Palm Beach would further transform the city into a major destination.

Related, the city's dominant office owner and developer, has built offices, hotels and other properties in major cities across the country. "Every single city we've worked in has been anchored by a great university," Himmel said.

While not taking away from local higher education institutions, Himmel said the private-equity and asset-management firms moving or expanding to the city's emerging "Wall Street South" district have openings for talented finance candidates, but they often struggle to fill those jobs.

Having a prestigious university churn out business school graduates will fill this need, while also providing Vanderbilt access to the "hottest real-estate corridor in America," Himmel said.

During a Tuesday luncheon with trustees of the Palm Beach Chamber of Commerce, Frisbie Group's Robert Frisbie Jr. and Cody Crowell also extolled the Vanderbilt plan.

Crowell is a Vanderbilt University graduate, and Frisbie credited him with coming up with the idea of bringing the Tennessee private school to downtown West Palm Beach, according to a meeting attendee who asked not to be named.

In an interview on Wednesday, Crowell would not elaborate on the Vanderbilt plan, but he said, "If we are lucky enough to attract a top-ranked university to our community, it would be an honor."

West Palm university campus plan eyes seven acres of public land

The business school would be built on 2 acres owned by the City of West Palm Beach, and 5 adjacent acres owned by Palm Beach County. The properties are along South Tamarind Avenue, from Datura Street south to Fern Street, in a section of the city dubbed Government Hill.

The Vanderbilt campus would not include 5 adjacent acres owned by Palm Beach billionaire Jeff Greene. His property had been part of a recent ballyhooed plan to bring a UF graduate campus to the city, but the deal collapsed last year after disagreements between UF and Greene over several issues, including naming rights to the campus.

Details of the Vanderbilt transaction with the city and county aren't yet finalized. This includes specifics on whether the downtown land would be sold or donated to Vanderbilt.

The UF deal called for the taxpayer-owned land to be donated for free to the state's flagship university.

Neither Palm Beach County Mayor Maria Sachs nor West Palm Beach Mayor Keith James responded to inquiries on the status of talks for a Vanderbilt campus. James' office referred inquiries to Related Cos.

But last April, James confirmed talks with an unnamed, out-of-state private institution. "Conversations are taking place behind the scenes," James said. "We have the land."

Public municipal discussions, bids for approvals lie ahead

The Vanderbilt negotiations have not been discussed in any public city or county meeting, and the plan also has not been approved by elected officials.

Nevertheless, Vanderbilt Chancellor Daniel Diermeier will attend a Palm Beach fundraiser for the Vanderbilt West Palm Beach campus the evening of April 1, the same day he meets individually with Palm Beach County commissioners to discuss the plan.

Vanderbilt, which boasts a $10 billion endowment, counts many wealthy alumni among its graduates. This includes part-time Palm Beach resident Thomas Frist III, an investor and heir to the $88 billion HCA Healthcare empire. HCA owns Palms West and JFK Medical hospitals in Palm Beach County.

In addition, Vanderbilt trustee Jon Winklereid is a Hobe Sound resident and chief executive of TPG Holdings/TPG Capital LP, an asset management firm with a market value of $16 billion.

Vanderbilt did not respond to specific questions about the West Palm Beach campus plan.

"We don’t have any information to share, but we’re always exploring new opportunities to expand our impact and further our mission," a Vanderbilt spokesman said.

West Palm Beach's future: A top university, a research hospital and more schools?

Through the years, Related repeatedly has emphasized the need for West Palm Beach to round out its institutions with a major university, a research hospital and more top elementary and secondary schools.

The company has poured billions of dollars into West Palm Beach, starting with the CityPlace mixed-use complex in 2000. The complex now is known as The Square.

During the pandemic, Related supercharged its investment in the city, buying up several Class A office towers and building the 360 Rosemary tower at The Square. This year, the company also is slated to finish building the One Flagler office building along the Intracoastal Waterway at the foot of the Royal Park Bridge to Palm Beach.

But the company, led by Stephen Ross, a Palm Beach billionaire who owns the NFL's Miami Dolphins, is expanding into other lines of business.

Related now is selling preconstruction units in two condominium complexes planned for West Palm Beach's waterfront.

Frisbie Group, meanwhile, wants to build a mixed-use complex at Belvedere Road and Dixie Highway. It also is planning a massive residential, shopping and hotel development on the Palm Beach Kennel Club property in suburban West Palm Beach.

Alexandra Clough is a business writer and columnist at The Palm Beach Post. You can reach her at aclough@pbpost.com. Twitter: @acloughpbp. Help support our journalism. Subscribe today.

Looking for fun things to do this weekend March 22-24? Top 5 events in Palm Beach County

Eddie RitzIt's officially winter in South Florida and though you won't be building snowmen or hitting the slopes, you will be able to enjoy outdoor activities without having to layer up or even wear a jacket most of the time. This is the time to venture outside enjoy festivals, ...

Eddie Ritz

It's officially winter in South Florida and though you won't be building snowmen or hitting the slopes, you will be able to enjoy outdoor activities without having to layer up or even wear a jacket most of the time. This is the time to venture outside enjoy festivals, greenmarkets and the area's incredible entertainment. Get out this weekend and get your nautical fix at the Palm Beach International Boat Show along the water in downtown West Palm Beach, feed your need for speed during the 2024 Gopher Tortoise Gallop 5K and/or hear the band Donzii perform during Art After Dark at the Norton Museum of Art.

In addition to the top five events listed there's always something great happening at places like The Norton Museum of Art or the Maltz Jupiter Theatre. On top of that you could always just enjoy a great meal with an equally great view at one of Palm Beach County's waterfront restaurants from Jupiter to Boca Raton. Plus, we've curated a list of the best things to do all year in the county, and here it is: your bucket list of 55 fun must-try things to do in Palm Beach County.

1. Palm Beach International Boat Show 2024

Once again held along Flagler Drive in beautiful downtown West Palm Beach, this four-day event will feature more than 800 boats ranging from megayachts to kayaks, exhibitors featuring over 600 brands of fishing and boating gear, multiple beverage and food vendors and more. Coming from Miami, Fort Lauderdale or Boca Raton? No problem as Brightline trains will be running and boat show shuttles will be ready to transport guests to the show.

The event runs noon to 7 p.m. Thursday, March 21; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, March 22 and Saturday, March 23 and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, March 24. Single day adult tickets start at $33; single day child (ages 6 to 15) start at $17. Flagler Drive, West Palm Beach. pbboatshow.com

2. Zumba Dance Party with Jaime at The Mall at Wellington Green

Whether you've got the grace of Ginger Rogers or Fred Flintstone (who, actually sliding down the back of a dinosaur was actually quite graceful), come down and start "Livin' La Vida Zumba!" at this dance event that combines high- and low-intensity Latin dance moves designed to burn calories and boost endurance.

The event is 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, March 23. 10300 Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington. Free. Information: shopwellingtongreen.com

3. 2024 Gopher Tortoise Gallop 5K

Whether or not you're a tortoise or hare, get outside and run or walk through Okeeheelee Park, while celebrating this keystone species that is the official tortoise of the Sunshine State. If you're running, the event is chipped time with awards for the top three overall (male and female) finishers and top three in each age group. Hosted by Friends of Okeeheelee Nature Center, this event will benefit the center's animals, exhibits and programs. There will be music, snacks, a DJ and dancing.

The event starts at 6:30 a.m. Saturday, March 23. 7715 Forest Hill Blvd., West Palm Beach. See website for entry fees. Information: victorysportsmgt.com/gophertortoisegallop5k

4. Palm Beach Gardens Community Yard Sale

Held on the city hall municipal campus, this event will feature between 40 and 50 vendors selling off hundreds of treasures and bargains. Find your treasure this weekend and on the way home, pat yourself on the back and yell "score!"

The event is 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, March 23. 10500 N. Military Trail, Palm Beach Gardens. Free entry. Information: 561-630-1100; recinfo@pbgfl.com

5. Art After Dark at the Norton Museum of Art

This week's rendition of the popular event will feature lecture on the exhibition Rose B. Simpson: Journeys of Clay along with a musical performance by the band Donzii. Featuring vocalist Jenn Balfe and musician Dennis Fuller, get ready for some post-punk goodness mixed with darkly ambient balladry.

The event is 5 to 10 p.m. Friday, March 22. 1450 S. Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach. Adults, seniors $10, students $5. Information: norton.org/events/aad-3-22-24

Eddie Ritz is a journalist at The Palm Beach Post, part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. You can reach him at eritz@pbpost.com. Help support our journalism. Subscribe today.

West Palm and Palm Beach rank in top 5 as cities with fastest growth in millionaires

Kimberly MillerA swell of affluence in South Florida kept West Palm Beach and Palm Beach in a "Top 5" list of the fastest-growing cities nationwide for ...

Kimberly Miller

A swell of affluence in South Florida kept West Palm Beach and Palm Beach in a "Top 5" list of the fastest-growing cities nationwide for accumulating millionaire residents over the past decade, according to a wealth-tracking report released this month.

The two Palm Beach County cities experienced a 93% increase in millionaires between 2013 and 2023, ranking it 3rd in this year’s Henley & Partners USA Wealth Report.

That’s a dip from the cities’ second-place finishes in the 2022 and 2023 reports but maintains a benchmark that some business experts said began a quick ascent during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“What we have seen since COVID is an increased surge in financial services firms moving to Palm Beach County who are escaping states that are not as business-friendly,” said Business Development Board of Palm Beach County President and CEO Kelly Smallridge. “After COVID, the vast majority of new business tenants were from out of state, which was a very new trend for us.”

The new wealth report ranked Austin, Texas, in the top spot for growing its millionaire residents with an increase of 110% since 2013. It was followed by runner up Scottsdale, Arizona, which experienced a 102% increase in millionaires.

In shear numbers, West Palm Beach and Palm Beach have 10,200 millionaires, 69 centi-millionaires (people with $100 million-plus) and nine billionaires.

Countywide, Smallridge estimates there are 47 billionaires.

New luxury tower:All about waterfront West Palm Beach's most luxurious downtown office tower, One Flagler

Falling out of the Top 5 ranking was Miami, which had placed 4th and 5th in the previous two years’ reports. Instead, the Connecticut towns of Greenwich and Darien came in 4th in the 2024 report with the California Bay Area ranking 5th.

Smallridge said after heavy-hitter financial companies such as Goldman Sachs, Millennium Management, Point 72 Asset Management and Citadel opened offices in West Palm Beach, the city’s nascent reputation as “Wall Street South” was bolstered, attracting more firms.

“West Palm Beach was kind of a sleepy tertiary town before,” said billionaire real estate investor Jeff Greene, who lives in Palm Beach.

He said a fervor to leave restrictive urban areas in the northeast during the pandemic, coupled with low interest rates, led many people who were already planning a move to South Florida to speed up the timeline.

Parents of children at his private Greene School in West Palm Beach have multiple Ivy League degrees and are settling in areas such as the popular south of Southern Boulevard, or SoSo, neighborhood, where he said they find a sense of community amid families with similar backgrounds and interests.

“Some of them are going to build some very successful big businesses here that will employ a lot of people,” Greene said.

Florida Atlantic University housing economist Ken H. Johnson said the growth of millionaire residents has been a trend for several years and is less convinced that the pandemic was the main driver of the increase in millionaire residents.

Regardless of the reasons, he said a growth in wealth “bodes well for the county.”

“This is a good thing, there is nothing negative about it,” Johnson said. “Now it’s just a matter of how we are going to spend it and invest it in society.”

Boomtown:Palm Beach County led nation on a scale ranking income gain since start of pandemic

While donations to philanthropic organizations will increase as newcomers seek to establish themselves in the community, a focus on buttressing schools and building affordable housing should also be a priority, he said.

Smallridge said the Business Development Board is shifting its efforts from pure recruitment of companies to making sure the ones that have already relocated want to stay long term. That includes increasing transportation options and building more housing, she said.

William Luther, an associate professor of economics at FAU, cautioned against attaching too much meaning to the increase in millionaires when the hurdle to become a millionaire is lower than it has been in the past.

Adjusting for inflation, he said $1 million 25 years ago would be about $1.7 million today.

“What that means is more retirees are going to have $1 million and places where retirees relocate are going to have a bigger growth in millionaires,” Luther said.

An analysis in the Henley & Partners report notes that millionaire retirees, especially from New York and California, are contributing to the growth in Palm Beach and West Palm Beach. But the report also attributes the increase to transplants coming from the fund management and entertainment sectors.

Hollywood icon Sylvester Stallone said earlier this year in an episode of "The Family Stallone" that he and his wife Jennifer Flavin Stallone were leaving California "permanently" to live in their waterfront Palm Beach estate.

Luther said he is more inclined to attribute an increase in centi-millionaires and billionaires to the pandemic.

“I think we have so much momentum, the number of millionaires here is going to grow,” Johnson said. “Money attracts other money.”

Kimberly Miller is a veteran journalist for The Palm Beach Post, part of the USA Today Network of Florida. She covers real estate and how growth affects South Florida's environment. Subscribe to The Dirt for a weekly real estate roundup. If you have news tips, please send them to kmiller@pbpost.com. Help support our local journalism, subscribe today.

West Palm Beach, Florida: An Epicenter Of Urbane Urban Luxury

The Palm Beaches (the 39 cities of Palm Beach County, Florida) are well-known for their outdoor activities, from golfing to boating to tennis and even polo. But the area also boasts a surprisingly urban destination, with luxurious hotels, fine dining, theatre, shopping and much more.On a recent visit, I got to experience ...

The Palm Beaches (the 39 cities of Palm Beach County, Florida) are well-known for their outdoor activities, from golfing to boating to tennis and even polo. But the area also boasts a surprisingly urban destination, with luxurious hotels, fine dining, theatre, shopping and much more.

On a recent visit, I got to experience the outdoor life, from becoming an apprentice beekeeper at the PGA National Resort in Palm Beach to observing the passion of polo in Wellington.

But in West Palm Beach, I experienced a mellow but distinctly urban vibe at The Ben, an eight-story, 208-room boutique hotel overlooking the West Palm Beach waterfront. An elegant member of the Marriott Autograph collection, The Ben is a three-year-old hotel with a gracious, traditional vibe.

The hotel offers big window views of the harbor, marina and scenic Intracoastal Waterway from its luxurious rooms. The Ben also boasts the only rooftop lounge in West Palm Beach, with a heated saltwater pool and adjacent bar. It has several spaces for events like weddings and moderate-sized meetings. The hotel is one block from Clematis Street, West Palm’s “Main Street,” and within walking distance of Rosemary Square.

West Palm Beach is walkable, but affordable electric shuttles from Circuit also transport people from the hotels throughout the city. The shared vehicles reduce emissions and traffic congestion while promoting local businesses. The Circuit stops at hotels, The Square, Worth Avenue and the Brightline, the train between Miami and Orlando, with stops in Aventura, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, and West Palm Beach.

As for The Ben, the hotel was inspired by Byrd Spilman Dewey’s Ben Trovato Estate, one of Palm Beach County’s original great homes. The hotel pays homage to Byrd Dewey, a 19th century best-selling author and local columnist, with its new Book Butler Program at Bedtime. Hotel guests can select a complimentary brand-new best-selling book, which will be hand-delivered by the hotel’s Book Butler accompanied by a snack from the ‘Book Bites’ menu.

At The Ben, you can play chess by the fireplace lounge on the main floor, sit on a cozy couch or swing in a rope chair, or have lunch with your hopefully well-behaved dog. When my wife and I sat down for a game of chess, we were quickly surrounded by a trio of friendly young kibitizers, helpfully suggesting moves.

More energetic outdoor activity requires just stepping outside. Boating, kayaking and other activities, available through Visit Palm Beach, are literally across the street on the scenic Intracoastal Waterway. Drawbridges pull up twice an hour so the multimillion mega-yachts can sail through. We were told that a week’s rental of J.K. Rowling’s yacht will set you back $360,000.

The afternoon and sunset is the perfect time to go for a local bike ride (bicycles are free for guests of The Ben). Or you can just wander the path along the Intercoastal, rubbernecking the massive yachts and observing the marine scene. If you haven’t had your fill of exercise, the hotel boasts a well-equipped gym.

The Ben’s rooftop café, Spruzzo, is West Palm Beach’s only rooftop waterfront dining experience, serving Mediterranean cuisine and raw bar along with craft cocktails.

The Ben can also be a nightlife spot, like its recent Super Bowl party at the stylish rooftop pool. It featured blasting disco music and a big screen over the pool, with bottle service vodka and appetizers for the cabana crowd. Several partygoers left the cozy cabanas and watched the game and the party people from the pool.

West Palm Beach has many such urban diversions, like fine restaurants, shopping, art galleries, museums like The Flagler Museum (the Gilded Age estate of the founder of the Palm Beaches, now a National Historic Landmark), and theater.

The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts brings theater (upcoming are HAMILTON and SHREK THE MUSICAL), ballet, concerts like “Year of the Cat” singer Al Stewart, and other events to the city. Steps away from The Ben is Palm Beach Dramaworks in downtown West Palm Beach. It mixes classics like Arthur Miller’s DEATH OF A SALESMAN with intriguing new plays like TRYING by Joanna McClelland Glass.

Not far away is the so-called Rodeo Drive of the Palm Beaches, Worth Avenue. The charming Mediterranean Revival-style shopping and dining boulevard street boasts a historic clocktower and stone courtyards built more than a century ago.

In addition to the Guccis and Saks, Worth offers bespoke stores like the IL PAPIRO paper store famous for its handmade papers. There are clothing stores with garments in classic Palm Beach hues of pink and salmon, and a tucked-away ice cream shop. I mostly window shopped, but broke down at Tiffany’s, bringing home a blue box for someone special.

Palm Beach is also rich with restaurants.

The Ben features an excellent coffee shop and restaurant, Proper Grit, offering a relaxed-yet-refined speakeasy-like setting that pays homage to Old Florida’s regal beginnings. It serves breakfast and lunch, and doubles as a supper club with a “whiskey library.” There’s even a 3:30PM to 5:30PM daily Proper Grit’s Daily Tea Service, by reservation only.

For an evening’s dining entertainment in West Palm Beach, there’s Pink Steak, the flamingo-themed modern steakhouse. The popular new kid in town among West Palm Beach restaurants. Pink Steak is reportedly attracting “foodies from all over the country.”

The modern steakhouse serves Wagyu steaks and tomahawks, but the menu unfolds with a grand entrance of caviars and raw bar type selections like soaring seafood towers or lobster on ice presented with the shell. The restaurant is dominated by a 15-foot-high giant flamingo, symbol of Florida, with playful green and pink banquettes for seating.

Chef Julien Gremaud said he realized that with two children, he couldn’t name his restaurant for one, so he chose a favorite color of his daughter’s. Not so surprisingly, it was the pink so popular in the Palm Beaches.

Miami may be breaking up with spring break, but Palm Beach County isn't! Best things to do

Stock up on sunscreen and dig out the beach towels. Spring Break 2024 is busting out all over Florida in the next few months. College students from the East Coast and Midwest have begun their annual coastal invasion. And while Miami may be breaking up with spring break, Palm Beach County isn't! We have plenty of things to do for ...

Stock up on sunscreen and dig out the beach towels. Spring Break 2024 is busting out all over Florida in the next few months. College students from the East Coast and Midwest have begun their annual coastal invasion. And while Miami may be breaking up with spring break, Palm Beach County isn't! We have plenty of things to do for visitors and locals looking for fun in the sun. Palm Beach County public school students are off from March 18 through March 25.

So, whether you’re staycationing or visiting, there are plenty of options to fill sunny days (although we Floridians may require wet suits for frigid ocean temperatures still in the low 70s).

We've rounded up guides to our best beaches, waterfront bars and restaurants, area attractions and things to do near West Palm Beach and Palm Beach County for Spring Break 2024:

Enjoy a tropical island daytrip to Peanut Island

Peanut Island, the 80-acre tropical island located at the west end of the Palm Beach (Lake Worth) Inlet, is a get-there-only-by-boat county park, where long strings of boats raft up while hundreds of people socialize in the shallow off-shore water. At its best, a visit to the island can feel like a brief Bahamian vacation as the Gulfstream flows in through the inlet to bathe the palm-fringed island in warm, crystalline water.

Here's everything you need to know before you go to this tropical paradise near West Palm Beach: Peanut Island Guide 2024

10 must-visit Palm Beach County parks for walking; sunbathing; relaxing

Amphitheaters. Equestrian centers. Fishing lakes. Golf courses. Artificial reefs. Water parks. Nature exhibits. Aquatic centers. There’s a lot more going on in our county parks than you might realize. The county runs 83 parks, from tiny playgrounds to thousand-acre behemoths (and then there are state parks, beach parks and parks run by individual cities.)

Of the parks maintained by the county, here’s a list of the top 10 parks you must visit.

Attractions: Lion Country Safari drive-thru zoo

Lion Country Safari is the largest park in Florida with a safari-style experience. See animals from six continents while riding in your car with the AC at the zoo, which is located in Palm Beach County. And the local attraction has gotten national attention: After Lion Country Safari ranked No. 8 on USA TODAY's 10 Best Readers Choice Awards, the attraction made U.S. News and World Report's list of "26 Best Zoos in the U.S" for 2023.

Here are some things to know about Lion Country Safari and what the drive-through zoo offers: Lion Country Safari Guide

Lion Country Safari: 2003 Lion Country Safari Rd, Loxahatchee; 561-793-1084

Best beaches near West Palm Beach

We love our Palm Beach County beaches. And with warm weather here, it’s time to soak up some sun. With the county’s 45-mile long Atlantic shoreline, there are lots of beautiful beaches to choose.

Here we break down the main attractions and facts on each beach from Tequesta to Boca Raton: Best beaches of Palm Beach County

Love looking for seashells? Here are the best beaches for finding those little treasures

The Palm Beaches isn't a bucket list destination for seashell collectors. And Palm Beach County may not be the seashell capital of the world, like Sanibel Island on the west coast, but don't let that discourage you from looking for treasures. Use this handy guide: Where to find sea shells in Palm Beach County

Attractions: Enjoy water fun at Shark Park 561

If a lake is more your scene, check out Shark Park 561 within Palm Beach County's Okeeheelee Park. The attraction opened in 2019 and offers a variety of activities including an inflatable floating obstacle course with monkey bars, climbing towers and slides. The venue also offers a cable park that tows wakeboarders — no boat necessary.

Shark Park 561 within Okeeheelee Park, 7715 Forest Hill Blvd, West Palm Beach; 561.323.3937

Relax by the water at some of the best waterfront restaurants/bars in South Florida

Yes, everything does taste better by the water, and if you live in or are visiting South Florida you'll want to know where to find the best waterfront restaurants. We have a lot of waterfront in Palm Beach County, so we'll be delivering this wisdom in geographic bites, going from north to south.

Here are the best waterfront spots in northern Palm Beach County: Tables with a sparkling view near Jupiter

Laura Lordi is Digital Editor at The Palm Beach Post, part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. You can reach her at llordi@pbpost.com.

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