What to know when moving to Port Saint Lucie, FL
Port Saint Lucie at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 27.4% of residents are renters and the median household income is $60,123.
- The Major Draw:
- Access to several parks like Indian Riverside Park, rated 4.8 stars by over 2,300 users.
- The Reality Check:
- With a public transit commute share of just 0.5%, owning a car is essential.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for a median rent of $1,635 per month.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Port Saint Lucie is primarily a residential area, with a population of 41,679 and a notable 23.8% of residents holding a bachelor's degree or higher. The median owner-occupied home value is $242,100, providing a relatively affordable housing market compared to other regions. The climate features about 108 rainy days a year, making it wise to invest in rain gear.
Probably not your spot if you prefer a high percentage of public transit options, as only 0.5% of residents commute this way.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median rent is $1,635, which means you'll need to budget accordingly.
- The median home value is $242,100, making homeownership a potential goal.
- With 27.4% of the population renting, there are options for both renters and homeowners.
- The community has a poverty rate of 11.9%, reflecting a mix of income levels.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Schools & Higher Ed
Port Saint Lucie has access to 4 postsecondary institutions, including:
- Fortis Institute-Port Saint Lucie
- Keiser University-Port St Lucie
- Fort Pierce Beauty Academy
- Indian River State College
Source: NCES Postsecondary School Locations, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
St. Lucie County receives about 40.3 inches of rain annually, spread over 108 rainy days, so be prepared for wet weather. With no snowfall, outdoor activities are year-round. A few notable parks include:
- Indian Riverside Park - 4.8 stars from 2,346 reviews
- Clover Park - 4.6 stars from 2,509 reviews
- Sandsprit Park - 4.7 stars from 2,096 reviews
- Walton Rocks Beach / Dog Park - 4.7 stars from 1,077 reviews
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
In St. Lucie County, the unemployment rate is 5.1% as of December 2025, with a labor force of 169,528. The number of employed residents stands at 160,798, indicating a relatively stable job market.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.