Where The Wealthy Are Buying Second Homes In 2026

"What has changed most heading into 2026 isn't just where people are buying second or third homes, it's how intentionally they're using them. We're seeing a clear rise in younger high-net-worth buyers, often founders, executives, and global entrepreneurs in their 30s and 40s, who are building real estate portfolios around flexibility. These homes are no longer occasional escapes. They're part-time primary residences, remote work bases, and long-term lifestyle investments rolled into one."

"Second-home purchases now account for 28% of luxury real estate transactions globally, according to Sotheby's International Realty's 2026 Luxury Outlook Report. As legacy destinations face inflated costs, seasonal congestion, and limited inventory, buyers are turning toward markets with better investment value, year-round livability, and elevated cultural offerings."

Second-home purchases represent 28% of global luxury real estate transactions, with high-net-worth buyers fundamentally changing their approach to multiple property ownership. Younger entrepreneurs and executives in their 30s and 40s are building diversified real estate portfolios designed for flexibility, treating secondary residences as part-time primary homes and remote work bases. Traditional luxury markets like Aspen, Miami, and the Hamptons face challenges from inflated costs, seasonal congestion, and limited inventory. Buyers increasingly seek emerging destinations offering superior investment value, year-round livability, and cultural amenities. Salt Lake City exemplifies this shift, attracting investors from major metros through its tech sector growth, skiing proximity, strong property appreciation, and upcoming 2034 Winter Olympics.

Read at Forbes