What was once a quiet extension of Florida Atlantic University is now a major player in the Boca Raton commercial real estate market. The FAU Research Park is producing over $708 million in annual economic output, helping drive new development, attract top talent, and strengthen South Florida’s position as a growing hub for innovation and investment.
The $708M Economic Engine Driving Boca Raton
What is FAU Research Park?
Established 40 years ago, the FAU Research Park was created to offer a home for innovative companies right next to Florida Atlantic University. Located off Spanish River Blvd, it’s a 94-acre hub for high-tech startups and established firms alike.
Companies at the park benefit from proximity to FAU’s 30,000+ students, faculty, and research programs, making it an ideal environment for biotech, AI, med tech, and engineering ventures.
Revenue and Job Creation
In 2024 alone:
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$657 million in revenue was generated by park companies.
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978 full-time jobs were supported.
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160 new positions were added — many of them tech and research-based.
That activity led to $708 million in total economic impact, proving this research park is a powerful economic catalyst for Boca Raton and beyond.
Notable Companies Born in the FAU Research Park
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ModMed – Valued at $5.6 billion, this company creates software for specialty medical practices.
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ShipMonk – Offers tech-powered e-commerce fulfillment solutions.
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The SilverLogic – A custom software development firm supporting enterprise innovation.
These companies aren’t just growing, they’re helping redefine Boca Raton’s reputation as a serious player in tech and innovation.
Commercial Real Estate Is Surging Near FAU Research Park
Tech Demand Is Fueling Office Development
As sectors like AI, IoT, and MedTech gain momentum, demand for Class A office space and R&D campuses near the Research Park is rising. Developers are creating spaces designed for the next wave of innovation, including flexible labs, smart buildings, and collaborative campuses.
Major Commercial Developments Nearby
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Boca Raton Innovation Campus (BRiC): A 1.7M sq ft mixed-use project with offices, public art, retail, and future residences, right next to FAU.
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University Village: 77 acres planned for 700+ housing units, a hotel, retail, and office space, designed for walkability.
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Downtown Government Campus (Brightline Station Area): A 30-acre master plan with homes, offices, green space, and retail.
Why Boca’s Location Wins?
The city’s easy access to I-95, proximity to major airports, and walkability make it a top choice for tech companies and relocating executives. The talent pipeline from FAU, combined with high-income migration from other states, keeps Boca Raton commercial real estate in high demand.
Residential Real Estate Is Catching Up In Boca Raton
New Housing Near FAU Research Park
As job growth accelerates, so does the need for nearby housing. Developers are meeting demand with a mix of luxury homes and rental-friendly communities.
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Lotus Edge by GL Homes – Gated, resort-style community five miles from FAU.
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Vie Villas Townhomes – Two miles from FAU, these Mediterranean-style townhomes offer 2-car garages, shuttles to campus, and resort amenities.
Why Investors Are Watching Boca Raton
Migration of High-Income Professionals
Since 2020, finance and tech leaders from NYC, Silicon Valley, and Chicago have relocated to South Florida. Boca Raton, with its high quality of life and expanding innovation district, has become a favorite.
These new residents drive demand for:
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Class A commercial leases
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Luxury condos
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Walkable, amenity-rich neighborhoods
Walkable, Mixed-Use Living Is In Demand
Projects like University Village and BRiC are built around the "live-work-play" model. This trend is attracting both developers and residents who want convenience, walkability, and vibrant surroundings.
FAQs About FAU Research Park and Boca Real Estate
What is the FAU Research Park?
It’s a 94-acre tech and innovation hub next to Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton. It houses high-growth companies and supports research collaboration.
Are there homes for sale near the Research Park?
Yes, communities like Boca Raton Hills, Lotus Edge, and Lake Rogers Isle are within 5 miles and have growing buyer interest.
What companies are based in FAU’s Research Park?
ModMed, The SilverLogic, ShipMonk, and many medical, software, and engineering firms operate here.
How is FAU impacting commercial real estate in Boca Raton?
The park has attracted jobs, companies, and over $700M in economic activity, making nearby land and developments more valuable.
Find Property Near Boca’s Innovation Hub
The FAU Research Park is more than a tech center, it’s a real estate catalyst. If you’re looking to buy or invest near South Florida’s growing innovation corridor, contact The Mastropieri Group Realtors® at (561) 544-7000. As trusted experts in the Boca Raton real estate market, we help clients stay ahead of the trends in this fast-moving area.
Posted by Larry Mastropieri on
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