Legacy: The Legendary Stephen M. Ross on Building a Real Estate Empire and Florida’s Next Great City

Real estate titan Stephen M. Ross shares his bold vision for commercial real estate and West Palm Beach. Ross sees the rising Florida market as a hub for innovation, business activity and entertainment, highlighting strategic investments in healthcare, education and cultural amenities, Ross looks back on an incredible career as a developer and entrepreneur.

Key Takeaways:

·     West Palm Beach Is Emerging as a Strategic Business Hub: With major investments in infrastructure, education and healthcare, the city is evolving from a back-office market into a front-line destination for corporate headquarters and innovation.

·     Walkability and Waterfront Access Are Driving Tenant Appeal: The city's urban design, combined with its coastal location, offers a lifestyle advantage that's increasingly important for attracting and retaining top talent.

·     Class A Office Space Is Thriving Despite National Trends: Premium developments in West Palm Beach are commanding Florida's highest office rents, signaling strong demand from financial and tech firms seeking quality and location.

·     Inclusive Growth Is Key to Long-Term Value: Investments in workforce housing, K–12 education and cultural amenities are creating a well-rounded ecosystem that supports both occupiers and employees.

·     Palm Beach County Is Competing with Top Growth Markets: With its favorable business climate, lifestyle advantages and expanding infrastructure, the region is positioning itself alongside cities like Austin, Nashville and Dallas as a top choice for corporate expansion.