Ultra-wealthy homes are increasingly appearing in cities once considered outside the traditional luxury property circuit. Therefore, this shift reflects changing priorities among buyers with assets of $30 million or more. Many are now seeking destinations that blend luxury lifestyles, investment value, and strategic advantages.
Moreover, recent analysis of global property ownership patterns shows that well-known hubs like London and New York still lead. However, cities such as Dubai, Lisbon, and Naples are now rapidly rising in appeal. This change, in turn, marks a diversification away from the historic favorites like Monaco and Saint-Tropez.
In addition, researchers examined verified profiles, property records, and global relationship networks. The study focused solely on privately owned secondary residences, excluding corporate or primary holdings. Consequently, data revealed approximately 480,000 ultra-high-net-worth individuals worldwide actively maintain multiple properties.
In the United States, Miami tops the list with over 13,000 ultra-wealthy homes. Furthermore, New York follows closely, then Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Naples, Florida. Naples, notably, stands out with 95 percent of its luxury properties serving as secondary residences.
Internationally, London leads with over 9,200 such properties. Beijing, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Geneva round out the top five outside the U.S. Meanwhile, Dubai ranks tenth, housing more than 1,200 ultra-wealthy homes. Experts attribute Dubai’s appeal to tax-friendly laws and its “golden visa” program, which actively supports foreign investment.
Similarly, cities like Aspen, Colorado, are notable for their density of affluent residents. Aspen hosts one billionaire for every 77 inhabitants, clearly showing the scale of concentrated wealth in certain areas. Additionally, Geneva and Zurich remain attractive for their privacy, stability, and access to top-tier education.
Lisbon has also gained momentum, particularly among U.S. buyers, thanks to its mix of affordability and European charm. While Portugal recently closed part of its residency-for-investment program, the city nonetheless retains strong appeal.
Market experts note that ultra-wealthy homes now serve as both lifestyle retreats and strategic financial assets. This trend, therefore, reflects growing emphasis on wealth preservation, tax benefits, and flexibility in an uncertain geopolitical climate.
By 2025, the distribution of ultra-wealthy homes will likely reflect a broader global footprint. As a result, cities offering security, culture, and investment opportunity will continue to draw the world’s wealthiest buyers.
