While experts note that elite buyers continue migrating from Miami and Palm Beach to spots like Hypoluxo Island and West Palm Beach for better value, there's growing evidence that others are venturing even farther—an hour-and-a-half north to the up-and-coming enclave of Vero Beach.
Vero has been overlooked for a long time,
But that's changing fast. Efforts to revitalize downtown have brought new restaurants, hotels, and cultural attractions. Singer Gloria Estefan and her husband Emilio have owned the elegant Costa d'Este Beach Resort & Spa since 2008, while a gourmet scene has taken off with spots like Citrus Grille, opened by New York City chef Scott Varricchio in 2019.
Check out the inviting vibe of Costa d'Este and the revitalized downtown area:
Here are serene views of the resort's oceanfront pool and beach, plus charming shots of downtown Vero Beach's shops and restaurants.
About six months ago, Merrill noticed a shift: Older secondary homeowners from South Florida—places like Miami, Naples, Delray Beach, Boca Grande, Jupiter, or Palm Beach—are selling their highly appreciated properties and heading to Vero.
These buyers, often retired CEOs from banking, equity, or finance (many paying cash, no mortgage needed), are drawn by massive value. A $20 million home in Palm Beach might find an equivalent in Vero for less than half the price—without giving up lifestyle perks.
The lifestyle they bought into years ago has shifted. "Palm Beach is like on steroids now"—overrun with newcomers, traffic, and construction.
Accessibility has improved too, with direct flights from Breeze Airways (Westchester, NY), JetBlue (JFK and Boston), and upcoming American Airlines service from Charlotte.
Vero Beach—no longer the 'zero'
Vero Beach offers subdued streets, strict low-density rules (no buildings taller than four stories), and easy access to the ocean and Intracoastal Waterway. Even in high season, the beaches remain peaceful and uncrowded.
Here are some peaceful beach scenes that highlight Vero's quiet luxury:
Elite newcomers often target exclusive communities like John's Island Club (a private gated golf enclave on the barrier island) or the equestrian-focused Windsor.
John's Island spans 1,700 acres with diverse housing—from condos to single-family homes—plus three golf courses, tennis, a beach club, and more. The $300,000 initiation fee comes with a classic, understated dress code.
Take a look at John's Island's scenic golf club and community views:
Vero's median home price hovers around $370,000–$450,000 (depending on recent data from sources like Redfin and Zillow as of late 2025), while luxury listings in John's Island range from $650,000 condos to $12.5 million+ waterfront estates. A comparable Palm Beach property? Easily $40–60 million or more.
Here are examples of stunning luxury oceanfront estates in Vero Beach:
These modern, high-end homes illustrate the premium properties attracting South Florida transplants.
It's not the new Palm Beach
Unlike areas embracing the "next Palm Beach" label, Vero fiercely guards its low-key character. "Vero Beach is not glitzy and flashy,. You don’t come here to show off your net worth but to enjoy life at a pace that is peaceful and meaningful."
While some spec projects push mega mansion prices (like a $60 million listing that didn't sell), Merrill predicts Vero's appeal lies in sustainable, understated luxury—with plenty of room for appreciation without reaching Palm Beach extremes.
As migration trends continue into 2026—with cash-heavy luxury buyers seeking value amid South Florida's density—Vero Beach is quietly emerging as a smart, serene alternative for those ready for a more balanced coastal life.
Click here to view luxury homes and condos in Vero Beach
