Palm City |
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HistoryPalm City's beginnings date to 1912 and are typical of the storied growth of Florida and its eventual real estate boom. In that year, the Palm Beach County Land Company owned by Charles C. Chillingsworth bought the property, eventually comprising Palm City, from George Beckwith. Chillingsworth named it Palm City and advertised the land throughout North America and Europe. A Demonstration Farm producing pineapples, oranges, and grapefruit was established to impress farmers with what they could expect and Chillingsworth used boats and covered wagons to show the property. On at least one New Years day, he offered free dinner, a 10-acre tract for $500, and a free town lot to every purchaser. DescriptionPalm City is an unincorporated community in Martin County, FL bordered on the east by the St. Lucie River. The Palm City crosses the river to Stuart, the largest community in the county and to the Treasure Coast. Close proximity to both I-95 and the Florida Turnpike provides easy commuting, (45 minutes), to the Palm Beaches and a two-hour drive for a day trip to, or weekend in Orlando (Disney Area). This small town has planned its growth to build a thriving community. ResidentsThe population was 20,097 in 2000 but is now estimated to be nearer 24,000. In 2007, the estimated median household income was $84,000 and a family median income placed at $67,546. The median age of the population was 47. The 18-24 range was less than 3.5% with the under 18, 25-44, 45-65, and over 65 were all about equal in size. Only about 25% of the population were born in Florida. Residents over 25 are well educated with 24.3% high school graduates, 33.5% with an associate's degree or college study, 24.1% with a Bachelor's degree, and 11.6% a Master's, professional or doctorate degree (all figures well above the national average). Palm City boasts schools that are "A" rated and produce test scores above the national average. Rental HousingIf relocating to the area and interested in renting (either long, or short term) a home, condominium, or apartment within the "Treasure Coast" at an affordable price Palm City rental homes offer a range of choices. Palm City rentals represent about 12.5 % of total housing units, about half the Florida average. Palm City homes for rent are priced at $0.75/sq ft to $1.00/sq ft for homes and town houses. Apartment and condominiums rent for as low as $0.70/sq ft. Although far fewer in number, Palm City house rentals in golf communities to the west and even waterfront properties on the river are available at $1.5/sq ft to $1.75/sq ft). Fun StuffPalm City is a peaceful community. In addition, Martin County's community planning has provided "green areas" for parks and recreational facilities. Halpatiokee Regional Park offers football/soccer, softball/baseball fields, tennis courts, and miles of trails. Private and public championship golf courses are available in Palm City and Martin County. For boaters, located at the foot of the Palm City Bridge, Leighton Park provides a public boat slip. The Martin County Marina in Palm City provides dry storage, slips, and repairs. |
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