Torn between the historic charm of El Cid and the space and flexibility of SoSo? If you care about design, walkable amenities, and how your home lives day to day, choosing between these two West Palm Beach neighborhoods can feel tricky. In this guide, you’ll get a side-by-side look at architecture, lot patterns, walkability, flood factors, and renovation rules, plus an easy touring plan to experience both in one afternoon. Let’s dive in.
Quick neighborhood snapshots
El Cid at a glance
- Compact, historic neighborhood just inland from the Intracoastal and near downtown West Palm Beach.
- Early 20th-century architecture, mature tree canopy, and a strong historic identity.
- Short walk or bike to waterfront parks, marinas, and downtown dining.
- Recognized historic neighborhood where exterior changes often require review.
SoSo at a glance
- Larger area south of Southern Boulevard with a mix of blocks and housing eras.
- Bungalows, ranch homes, mid-century, Mediterranean influences, and newer infill.
- Generally farther from the Intracoastal and downtown pedestrian hubs.
- Not one unified historic district, so renovation flexibility varies block by block.
Architecture and lots
El Cid style and scale
- Predominant styles include Mediterranean or Spanish Revival, Mission, and some Colonial Revival.
- Expect stucco walls, clay tile roofs, arched loggias, wrought iron, and original wood or tile floors.
- Narrower frontages and deep lots create intimate streets and smaller side yards.
- Exterior additions or ADUs may face stricter historic review.
SoSo style and scale
- A wider mix: bungalow and ranch, mid-century single story, Mediterranean accents, and contemporary rebuilds.
- Many homes lend themselves to open-plan updates and modern interiors after renovation.
- More variability in lot width and depth, with a higher chance of larger yards and room for pools or garages.
- Generally more flexibility for remodels or teardowns, subject to zoning and lot coverage rules.
Everyday lifestyle: water, walks, yards
Intracoastal proximity
- El Cid is closer to the Intracoastal and Palm Beach island, which means easier access to marinas, waterfront views, and seaside parks. This convenience often commands a market premium and comes with greater exposure to coastal hazards.
- SoSo sits farther inland on average, so daily waterfront views are less common. It suits buyers who do not need to be steps from the water and prefer more space or design freedom at a given budget.
Walkability and urban access
- El Cid typically offers higher walkability with short walks or bike rides to restaurants, nightlife, and waterfront trails.
- SoSo is more car-oriented overall. Some pockets are close to neighborhood shops, but longer walks are common if your goal is downtown and the waterfront.
Parking and outdoor space
- El Cid’s narrower lots and smaller setbacks can limit private yard size and driveway options. On-street parking is common.
- SoSo more often delivers driveways, bigger backyards, and space for a pool or expanded garage.
Price position and value
- El Cid sits in a premium segment of West Palm Beach thanks to its historic charm and proximity to the Intracoastal. Expect higher per-square-foot values relative to many inland blocks.
- SoSo spans a mid-to-upper market range with notable variation by block and level of renovation. You can find fixer opportunities alongside fully renovated or new-infill homes. For buyers open to renovating or building, SoSo can deliver strong value.
- Price bands move quickly in South Florida. Use current comps for precise budgeting and timing.
Renovation rules and flexibility
El Cid historic context
- Many properties fall within a designated historic district or are subject to preservation policies. Roof changes, window and door alterations, porches, and major facade work may require review.
- The result is a cohesive neighborhood character, but you should plan for additional time and cost for exterior approvals.
SoSo project options
- With fewer blanket historic overlays across the area, many SoSo properties allow more contemporary changes or teardowns, depending on zoning and lot limits.
- Always verify local ordinances, setback rules, and any smaller historic overlays that could affect a specific parcel.
Flood risk and insurance basics
- Coastal proximity and elevation matter across West Palm Beach.
- El Cid’s closeness to the Intracoastal means more parcels may sit in FEMA special flood hazard zones. Expect a higher likelihood of mandatory flood insurance and possible mitigation needs.
- SoSo may have lower exposure than waterfront blocks, but flood risk is still present across many inland areas due to the regional water table and drainage conditions.
- Practical steps for any property you consider:
- Request an elevation certificate, if available.
- Ask for a recent flood-insurance estimate.
- Review FEMA flood maps and local drainage improvements.
Which fits you? A quick decision filter
- Choose El Cid if your priorities are historic authenticity, short walks to downtown and the waterfront, and a strong neighborhood identity.
- Choose SoSo if you value design flexibility, larger yards, a lower entry point for renovation or new build, and you are comfortable driving to downtown or the Intracoastal.
- Want a balance? Explore transition blocks between downtown and SoSo, and compare renovated infill options in SoSo that are still within an easy commute to downtown.
Showings checklist for design-savvy buyers
Use this list during tours to keep your evaluation consistent.
- Architectural integrity
- Original doors, moldings, floors, tilework, windows, roof materials, and overall authenticity.
- Light and layout
- Orientation, cross-ventilation, ceiling heights, and window placement. Consider where open-plan updates are feasible without losing character.
- Lot and site potential
- Yard usability, pool feasibility, driveway and garage capacity, and side-yard widths that impact additions.
- Systems and envelope
- Roof age, foundation, HVAC, electrical panel capacity, and plumbing type.
- Compliance and approvals
- Confirm any code issues, historic-district rules in El Cid, and required design reviews for exterior changes.
- Flood and drainage
- FEMA zone, elevation certificate, and any recent drainage or storm-water improvements nearby.
- Landscaping context
- Tree canopy, root proximity to the structure, grading, and—if applicable—any seawall conditions near waterfront areas.
Try both in one afternoon
Itinerary A: El Cid, charm plus waterfront
- Start with coffee downtown to gauge the feel and distance to El Cid on foot or bike.
- Walk 45 to 60 minutes through core streets to study facades, porches, rooflines, and the mature tree canopy.
- Drive a short loop by marinas and waterfront parks, then into downtown shopping to sense daily convenience and parking.
- Tour 2 to 3 homes. Note original details, ceiling heights, side-yard spacing, and driveway or garage options.
- Pause for lunch downtown and return in the evening to feel the nighttime vibe along the waterfront.
Itinerary B: SoSo, space and potential
- Start with coffee near a local SoSo commercial node to gauge amenity density.
- Spend 60 to 90 minutes driving and walking several blocks, comparing lot widths, house spacing, and where new builds cluster.
- Tour 3 homes, including one unrenovated option and one renovated or new infill to compare investment paths.
- Evaluate parking, yard usability for a pool, and street noise at different times of day.
- Wrap by driving to a nearby grocery or errand destination to test convenience for everyday life.
Next steps
Both neighborhoods offer real strengths. El Cid puts you steps from the water and downtown in a historic setting. SoSo gives you breathing room and flexible design paths within reach of the same coastal lifestyle. If you want tailored guidance, curated tours, or renovation advice specific to your goals, connect with Jefferson Kiely for a neighborhood-first plan that fits your lifestyle.
FAQs
What makes El Cid feel different from other West Palm Beach areas?
- El Cid pairs early 20th-century architecture, mature tree canopy, and proximity to the Intracoastal and downtown, reinforced by historic-preservation guidelines.
How does walkability compare between SoSo and El Cid?
- El Cid is generally more walkable to waterfront parks and downtown amenities, while SoSo is more car-oriented with walkable pockets near local shops.
Which area usually has larger yards and easier parking?
- SoSo more often delivers wider lots, bigger backyards, and driveways or garages, while El Cid’s historic fabric means tighter lots and more on-street parking.
What should I know about flood risk in both neighborhoods?
- El Cid’s waterfront proximity raises the likelihood of special flood hazard zones, while SoSo can still face inland flood considerations; always verify elevation and insurance.
How restrictive are renovations in El Cid compared with SoSo?
- El Cid often requires historic review for exterior changes, which preserves character but adds steps; SoSo generally offers more flexibility depending on zoning and the specific block.
If I want design freedom without losing access to downtown, what should I do?
- Focus on SoSo blocks with renovated infill close to downtown, and test drive commute times to ensure the daily rhythm matches your lifestyle.