Deep Dive: Deerfield Beach, FL Relocation Report (2026)

1. Deerfield Beach: The Data Profile (2026)

Deerfield Beach represents a specific statistical niche in the post-2024 remote work landscape. With a population of 87,322, it functions as a mid-sized coastal enclave rather than a major metropolitan hub. The economic profile reveals a distinct divergence from national averages. The median household income sits at $59,148, which is -20.7% lower than the US median of $74,580. This income deficit is compounded by an educational attainment rate of 27.8% holding bachelor's degrees, significantly trailing the national average of 33.1%.

Target Demographic:
The data profiles the ideal Deerfield Beach resident as a cost-conscious remote worker or a service-sector professional. The lower cost of living (COL) indices—specifically groceries at 94.4 and transportation at 95.6—offset the lower median income. It is statistically viable for individuals earning $60,000+ annually who prioritize coastal proximity and lower overhead over high-earning career density.

2. Cost of Living Analysis

The Cost of Living (COL) index in Deerfield Beach is favorable relative to the US average, driven largely by utilities and groceries. However, the income deficit requires strict budgeting.

Table 1: Monthly Budget Breakdown (2026 Estimates)

Disposable Income Analysis:
The critical metric for Deerfield Beach is the "Income-to-Burden" ratio. With a median income of $59,148 ($4,929 monthly gross), a single earner spending $1,166 on housing achieves a 23.7% housing burden—well within the sustainable 30% threshold. However, a family of four relying on the median household income to cover a $2,333 rent faces a 47.3% housing burden, indicating that dual-income households are statistically necessary for family stability here.

3. Housing Market Deep Dive

The housing market in Deerfield Beach is currently mirroring national trends, though with slightly lower entry barriers. The "Buy vs. Rent" dynamic is shifting as interest rates stabilize.

Table 2: Housing Market Data (2026)

Buy vs. Rent Analysis:
The data suggests a "Rent-Favorable" market for singles and small families. Renting a 1-bedroom unit at $1,650 is -5.7% cheaper than the national average. Conversely, buying a home is marginally more expensive than the US average, with a $415,000 median price tag. The price-per-square-foot premium of $295 indicates high land value desirability. For residents earning under $70,000, renting remains the only viable liquidity option, while buying requires a household income exceeding $100,000 to comfortably manage a $2,000+ mortgage payment.

4. Economic & Job Market Outlook

In 2026, the economic reality of Deerfield Beach is defined by the "Hybrid Commuter." The local economy is not dense enough to support a fully localized workforce for high-earners.

• RTO Impact: With a local median income of $59,148, residents are heavily reliant on access to higher-paying hubs like Fort Lauderdale or Boca Raton (within 15-20 miles). The "Return to Office" mandates have increased traffic congestion on I-95 and US-1.
• Commute Dynamics: The average commute time is 26 minutes. However, for those accessing the Fort Lauderdale financial district, this can spike to 45-60 minutes during peak hours.
• Market Stability: The unemployment rate sits at 4.2%, slightly above the national average of 4.0%. This suggests a tighter local job market for non-remote workers. The local industry is heavily weighted toward tourism, healthcare support, and retail, which explains the lower median income.

5. Quality of Life Audit

Deerfield Beach offers a "Good" health score (79.1/100) but carries specific health risks, particularly regarding diabetes.

Table 3: Quality of Life Metrics (2026)

Safety Analysis:
Safety metrics are statistically average but require context. Violent crime is 456 per 100k residents (vs. US 380), and property crime is 2,345 per 100k (vs. US 2,000). While these numbers are slightly elevated, they reflect the "average" range for Florida coastal cities. Residents should practice standard urban caution, particularly regarding property security.

Schools & Weather:

• Air Quality: With an AQI of 47 and PM2.5 levels at 6.5 µg/m³, the air quality is significantly cleaner than the US average, a major asset for respiratory health.
• Weather: Today’s conditions are 80°F (High) and 67°F (Low) with slight rain showers. This represents the mild "dry season" climate, offering excellent outdoor activity potential which correlates to the solid Health Score of 79.1.
• Education: The 27.8% college education rate suggests that while local schools may be functional, the environment is not academically competitive compared to tech-heavy metros.

6. The Verdict

Pros:

• Cost Efficiency: A single person can live on a budget of $2,800/month, significantly lower than major metros.
• Air Quality: Excellent AQI (47) and low PM2.5 levels.
• Housing Access: Rent is -5.7% cheaper than the US average for 1BR units.

Cons:

• Income Ceiling: Median income is $59,148, which is $15,432 below the national median.
• Health Risks: Diabetes rate is 14.4%, significantly higher than the national 10.9%.
• Family Affordability: Housing burden for families is 47.3% on a median income, creating financial stress.

Recommendation:
Deerfield Beach is a High-Value Relocation Target for Remote Workers. If you earn a salary of $75,000+ remotely, your purchasing power here is superior to 80% of US coastal cities. However, for local hires or families relying on the median income of $59,148, the financial margin for error is razor-thin.

7. FAQs

1. What salary is needed to live comfortably in Deerfield Beach?
For a single person, a salary of $65,000 allows for a comfortable lifestyle with a 25% savings rate. For a family, a combined income of $110,000+ is required to maintain a housing burden under 30%.

2. Is Deerfield Beach a good value compared to Boca Raton?
Yes. Deerfield Beach offers a -15% to -20% discount on rent and home prices compared to neighboring Boca Raton, while maintaining similar access to beaches and amenities.

3. How dangerous is the crime rate?
The crime rate is statistically Average. Violent crime is 456/100k, but this is concentrated in specific pockets. The vast majority of the city, particularly near the coast and Hillsboro Corridor, is safe for standard precautions.

4. When is the best time to move?
Move between October and December. This avoids the hurricane season peak and the summer humidity spikes. Rental inventory typically increases post-summer, offering better negotiating power on the $1,650+ monthly rents.