Wellington

City Population: 63,300

Listed among Fortune’s “50 Best Places to Live for Families,” the Village of Wellington is located in western Palm Beach County, sharing a southwestern boundary with the world-famous Florida Everglades.

In 1951, Wellington was purchased by successful accountant and New York investor Charles Oliver Wellington. Because of its proximity to the Everglades, the area was prone to frequent flooding. In 1953, the Florida Legislature created the Acme Improvement District to provide drainage, water management, and infrastructure development in western Palm Beach County. Acme transformed the water-logged land into fertile farmland. At one point, there were 2,000 acres devoted to strawberry plants, leading to claims that it was the world’s largest strawberry patch. Citrus groves also thrived in the area.

Wellington has come a long way since the 1950s. Located approximately 15 miles from downtown West Palm Beach and 12 miles from the Palm Beach International Airport, Wellington serves as a home base for many. The community shares the convenience of both urban living and easy access to breathtaking natural areas, preserves, and numerous outdoor activities.

The Village of Wellington is internationally recognized as the winter equestrian capital of the world and is an international destination for show jumping, dressage, and polo. Wellington is the home of the National Polo Center – Wellington and Wellington International, host of the Winter Equestrian Festival.

Today, this beautiful South Florida town boasts plenty of hometown charm with activities for people of all ages. With an abundance of parks, quality schools, attractive neighborhoods, and equestrian interests, Wellington maintains a high reputation. With several Palm Beach County A-rated schools, some offering specialty magnet programs, Wellington actively supports education.

Wellington’s outstanding Parks and Recreation Department schedules family- friendly events such as movie nights, food trucks, and tribute band concerts and hosts outstanding events for the holidays including a Fourth of July Celebration that culminates with a fireworks spectacular. In the spring and fall, Village Park offers a multitude of sports and family programming, from Saturday morning soccer games to the open gym on Thursday nights. There is always something to do.

Wellington also works closely with both the Palm Beach County Sherriff’s Office and Palm Beach County Fire Rescue to maintain the highest level of safety and services for its residents.