Renting in South Florida isn’t one-size-fits-all. Each city has its own rules, the market moves quickly, and prices shift depending on the neighborhood. Whether you’re a homeowner thinking about renting your place out, or someone looking to secure a rental, here’s what you need to know about the process, the market, and the local regulations.

Do I Need a License to Rent Out My Property in Florida?

For most long-term rentals, the answer is simple: no license required. If you own the property and are leasing it directly to a tenant, you can do that without getting a real estate license. Licenses are only required if you’re managing or renting properties for others and charging a commission.

Where it gets more complicated is short-term rentals (think Airbnb or seasonal leases). South Florida cities are strict about compliance, and rules can differ depending on where your property sits.

Here’s a breakdown of the three cities many people ask about:

• Boynton Beach – If you’re running a short-term or vacation rental, you’ll need to get a Vacation Rental License from the state. On top of that, the city requires you to register, obtain a Certificate of Use, and secure a Business Tax Receipt. Missing any one of these steps can put you out of compliance.

• Delray Beach – As of October 2023, the city eliminated the requirement for landlord permits. This makes it easier for owners to rent long-term, but other regulations, like fire safety or zoning rules, may still apply. Always check with the city before listing.

• West Palm Beach – Regulations here can shift based on the zoning of your property, how long you plan to rent it, and whether it’s single-family, condo, or multifamily. Some areas may require inspections or additional paperwork before you can host short-term tenants.

Bottom line: long-term rentals are straightforward, short-term rentals require more paperwork. Before you list, confirm the rules with your city to avoid costly fines.

How Is the Rental Market in South Florida?

South Florida is still one of the most competitive rental markets in the country. People are moving in for the weather, the jobs, and the lifestyle, and that steady demand keeps prices up.

• In Boynton Beach, average rents run between $2,300 and $2,700 depending on the size and location of the property.

• In Delray Beach, expect to see rentals in the $2,400 to $2,850 range. Downtown condos and anything near the beach go for more.

• In West Palm Beach, a one-bedroom averages around $2,570, and single-family homes can stretch much higher.

Even with new developments adding supply, demand hasn’t slowed. Well-priced, well-maintained rentals usually get multiple applications quickly.

How Much Is It to Rent a Place in Florida for a Month?

If you’re relocating to South Florida or testing out an area before buying, monthly rental costs will likely be your biggest concern. Here’s a quick snapshot of what to expect:

Location and Monthly Rent (Approx.) Boynton Beach $2,300 – $2,700, Delray Beach $2,400 – $2,850, West Palm Beach$2,500+ for 1-bedroom

Single-family homes, townhomes, and larger condos easily run $3,000–$4,000+. Luxury or waterfront properties are in another league entirely. If you’re planning a seasonal rental (for just a few months), landlords often charge a premium since the demand is so high in the winter.

What Is Required to Rent a House in Florida?

If you’re a tenant, here’s what landlords usually ask for:

1. Security Deposit – Typically one month’s rent, sometimes more for larger homes or higher-risk tenants.

2. Lease Agreement – Read every line. Florida leases spell out not only the rent and length of stay, but also who maintains landscaping, pays for utilities, and handles repairs.

3. Background & Credit Check – Expect to provide proof of income, run a credit check, and in some cases, pay an application fee.

4. HOA Approval (if applicable) – Many communities in Boynton Beach, Delray, and West Palm have HOAs. Tenants may need board approval before moving in, which can add time to the process.

5. Short-Term Rental Rules – If you’re a landlord renting seasonally, make sure you have the correct local permits and are collecting the required taxes (tourist development tax, sales tax, etc.).

If you’re a landlord, remember that transparency and solid record-keeping go a long way in avoiding disputes.

Final Word

Renting in South Florida can be straightforward when you know the rules, but every city adds its own twist. Boynton Beach requires a full vacation rental license process, Delray Beach recently loosened up on permits, and West Palm Beach depends on zoning.

Whether you’re looking to rent out your property or you’re trying to find a rental, having someone in your corner who understands both the real estate market and the local regulations makes the process a whole lot easier.

As a Realtor and former contractor, I help clients not only find or rent homes, but also ensure the property itself is in great shape and compliant with city regulations. If you’re thinking about renting in Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, West Palm Beach, or anywhere nearby, I’d be glad to walk you through your options.

Whether you’re renting out your property or looking for a place to live, I can help you navigate the South Florida market. Call me directly at 561-344-3292 or send me an email HERE.