Moving from NYC to Boca Raton: Your 2026 Guide
If you’re reading this from a Manhattan apartment, a Long Island colonial, or a Westchester commute, you’re not alone. New York-area counties are among the top sources of new Palm Beach County residents. Here is what I walk every New York buyer through before they move.
1. Taxes: what actually changes
Florida does not have a state personal income tax (Florida Department of Revenue). That is a big reason people move, but the details — when your residency changes, what happens to New York-source income, and how to document your move — are questions for your CPA. What I can help with is the property side: once Boca Raton is your permanent home, you may qualify for Florida’s homestead exemption (up to $50,000 off assessed value) and the Save Our Homes cap on annual assessed-value increases. File with the Palm Beach County Property Appraiser after you close.
2. Budget for the costs New Yorkers don’t expect
- HOA fees: most gated communities in west Boca charge monthly or quarterly dues, and some collect a capital contribution at closing.
- Insurance: homeowners, wind, and sometimes flood insurance. Get quotes on the specific house before you’re under contract if you can.
- Inspections: a 4-point and wind-mitigation inspection can affect your insurance premium.
3. Pick the right part of Boca
- East Boca: closer to the beach, Mizner Park, and downtown.
- Central and west Boca: many gated communities, from established neighborhoods to newer GL Homes communities like Lotus.
- Boca Pointe area: established gated neighborhoods such as Encantada.
Not sure about Boca vs. Delray? Read Delray Beach vs. Boca Raton for New York Buyers.
4. Schools
School assignments in Palm Beach County are set by address. I’ll share the assigned schools listed for each home, but always confirm with the School District of Palm Beach County’s boundary tools.
5. Staying connected to New York
Palm Beach International (PBI) and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood (FLL) airports both serve the New York area, and Brightline has a station in Boca Raton.
6. Buying from 1,200 miles away
I run most of the early process by video: a consultation, a short list of communities, live video tours, and then a focused weekend of in-person showings. Offers, disclosures, and most closing documents can be signed electronically.
7. Selling up north first?
Compass has agents throughout New York City, Long Island, Westchester, and New Jersey. I can connect you with one so both sides of your move are coordinated.
Ready to start? Plan your move with me or call/text (561) 756-5909.
This article is general information, not tax, legal, or financial advice.
Contact Jared BeRossy
Jared BeRossy, REALTOR® | The BeRossy Group at Compass
Compass Florida, LLC d/b/a Compass
Phone: (561) 756-5909 | Email: jared.berossy@compass.com | Instagram: @soldbyberossy
Office: 101 N Federal Hwy, 5th Floor, Boca Raton, FL 33432
Licensed Real Estate Sales Associate, State of Florida — License #SL3348495