The impact of wealth migration on luxury real estate markets globally

Robert Gultig

3 January 2026

The impact of wealth migration on luxury real estate markets globally

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Written by Robert Gultig

3 January 2026

The impact of wealth migration on luxury real estate markets globally

The global luxury real estate market has been substantially affected by wealth migration trends over the past few years, with high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) increasingly relocating to regions that offer favorable tax regimes, lifestyle benefits, and political stability. According to a 2022 report by Knight Frank, the global luxury property market is expected to reach $1.2 trillion by 2025, growing at an annual rate of 6%. This growth is largely driven by the influx of wealth into prime real estate markets, particularly in cities like Miami, London, and Singapore, where demand has soared due to an increasing number of ultra-wealthy buyers.

1. United States

The United States has seen a significant influx of HNWIs, particularly in states like Florida and Texas, which are favored for their tax benefits. In 2021, luxury home sales in the U.S. reached $1.6 trillion, a 30% increase from the previous year.

2. United Kingdom

London remains a premier destination for wealthy individuals, with luxury home sales totaling £3.5 billion in 2021. The city’s political stability and cultural allure continue to attract significant foreign investment.

3. Canada

Canada’s luxury real estate market has grown by 25% year-on-year, driven by wealth migration from high-tax countries. In 2022, luxury home sales in Toronto alone exceeded CAD 2 billion.

4. Australia

Sydney and Melbourne have attracted many wealthy expatriates and investors, leading to a 20% rise in luxury property prices over the past year. The luxury property market in Australia is projected to grow by 8% annually.

5. Switzerland

Switzerland’s luxury real estate market is bolstered by its low tax rates and high quality of life. In 2022, there was a 15% increase in luxury property transactions, with an average price of CHF 2.5 million.

6. Singapore

Singapore has become a hotspot for wealthy migrants, with luxury property sales rising by 30% in the past year. The city-state’s luxury market is expected to grow by 10% annually, reaching SGD 10 billion by 2025.

7. United Arab Emirates

The UAE has seen a surge in luxury real estate investments, particularly in Dubai, where property sales reached AED 100 billion in 2022. The increase is largely attributed to new visa regulations aimed at attracting foreign investors.

8. France

Paris remains a top destination for luxury real estate, with property prices increasing by 12% in 2022. The luxury market is projected to grow by 6% annually, supported by international buyers.

9. Germany

Germany has emerged as a key player in the luxury real estate market, particularly in cities like Berlin and Munich. Luxury property sales in Germany reached €3 billion in 2022, a 25% increase from the previous year.

10. Spain

Spain’s luxury real estate market has benefited from an influx of wealthy expatriates, with property sales in regions like Marbella increasing by 40% in 2022. The market is expected to grow by 7% annually.

11. Italy

Italy has seen a revival in luxury real estate, particularly in cities like Milan and Florence. The luxury market recorded €2 billion in sales in 2022, with a projected annual growth of 5%.

12. Mexico

Mexico has experienced a 15% rise in luxury property sales, particularly in regions like Los Cabos and Tulum. The luxury real estate market is expected to reach $1 billion by 2025.

13. Hong Kong

Despite recent political challenges, Hong Kong remains a key luxury real estate market, with property prices averaging HKD 20 million. The market is forecasted to grow by 4% annually.

14. Thailand

Thailand has seen a 10% increase in luxury real estate transactions, particularly in Bangkok and Phuket. The luxury market is projected to reach THB 500 billion by 2025.

15. Brazil

Brazil’s luxury real estate market is gaining momentum, particularly in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, with sales reaching BRL 3 billion in 2022, marking a 20% increase from the previous year.

16. South Africa

South Africa has seen a rise in luxury property sales, particularly in Cape Town and Johannesburg, where luxury transactions reached ZAR 5 billion in 2022, a 15% increase.

17. Indonesia

Indonesia’s luxury real estate market, particularly in Bali, has attracted wealthy expatriates, with sales increasing by 30% in 2022. The market is projected to grow by 6% annually.

18. Philippines

The Philippines has experienced a surge in luxury real estate, particularly in Metro Manila, where sales reached PHP 50 billion in 2022, a 20% increase.

19. India

India has seen a growing demand for luxury properties, particularly in Mumbai and Delhi, with sales reaching INR 400 billion in 2022, a 15% increase.

20. Malta

Malta’s luxury real estate market has grown by 25% in the past year, with the average property price reaching €1 million. The market is expected to continue expanding as more HNWIs relocate to the island.

Insights

The trends in wealth migration indicate a robust future for luxury real estate markets globally. Regions offering tax advantages and high-quality living are likely to see sustained demand, with countries like the United States and Australia leading the way. According to a report from Wealth-X, the global population of billionaires is expected to increase by 20% over the next five years, further driving demand in luxury real estate markets. As HNWIs continue to seek safe havens, the luxury property sector is poised for continued growth, with overall market values projected to reach $1.5 trillion by 2026.

Related Analysis: View Previous Industry Report

Author: Robert Gultig in conjunction with ESS Research Team

Robert Gultig is a veteran Managing Director and International Trade Consultant with over 20 years of experience in global trading and market research. Robert leverages his deep industry knowledge and strategic marketing background (BBA) to provide authoritative market insights in conjunction with the ESS Research Team. If you would like to contribute articles or insights, please join our team by emailing support@essfeed.com.
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