The mass exodus of wealthy individuals from high-tax states like New York to Florida has caused a surge in demand for household staff in elite Florida enclaves, particularly in Palm Beach. Housekeepers, in particular, are in high demand, as wealthy emigrants require help in maintaining their large homes. This increased demand has led to bidding wars between mansion owners and a significant rise in housekeeper salaries. According to staffing agencies, housekeepers in Palm Beach can now earn between $120,000 and $150,000 per year, along with benefits such as health care, 401(k) plans, and overtime pay.
April Berube, the founder of The Wellington Agency, which places household staff in various locations including Palm Beach and Miami, stated that she has never seen such a boom in demand for staff in her 30 years of experience. Melissa Psitos, founder of Lily Pond Services, recounted a recent experience where a client initially hoped to hire a housekeeper for $75,000 but ended up paying $110,000 due to market conditions. Executive housekeepers who oversee other staff can earn even more, with Psitos citing an example of a head housekeeper in Palm Beach making $250,000 per year.
The shortage of qualified housekeepers has prompted staffing agencies to post “Help Wanted” ads all over the web and throughout West Palm Beach. However, finding suitable candidates has proven challenging. Many wealthy homeowners initially balk at the high salaries but soon realize that experienced and skilled housekeepers are worth the investment. The job requires specific skills, such as moving quietly throughout the house, cleaning antiques and fine art, and properly caring for delicate linens.
In light of the scarcity of qualified candidates, April Berube is considering launching a school to teach high-end housekeeping skills and generate more housekeepers. However, she acknowledges that finding the time to do so is difficult given the current demand for staff.
The surge in demand for household staff in Palm Beach and South Florida is a direct result of the mass wealth migration from high-tax states. Wealthy emigres buying large homes now require a range of services, including housekeeping. The shortage of qualified housekeepers has led to bidding wars between mansion owners, driving up salaries to around $120,000 to $150,000 per year. The situation has proven challenging for staffing agencies, who struggle to find suitable candidates. The demand for experienced and skilled housekeepers is expected to continue as more wealthy individuals relocate to Florida.
In conclusion, the influx of wealthy individuals to Florida has created record demand for household staff, particularly in Palm Beach. The shortage of qualified housekeepers has led to bidding wars and skyrocketing salaries. Staffing agencies are struggling to find suitable candidates, prompting discussions about launching a school to teach high-end housekeeping skills. The demand for experienced and skilled housekeepers is expected to persist as more wealthy individuals continue to relocate to Florida.
