Miami has once again solidified its position as the premier destination for foreign real estate investment in the United States. The city is attracting a significant influx of international capital, particularly from Latin America, driving substantial transaction volumes and making it a standout market compared to national and state averages.
Key Takeaways
- Miami leads the U.S. in foreign real estate investment, with 15% of residential sales to international buyers.
- Latin America, especially Colombia and Argentina, is the primary source of this foreign capital.
- Investors are drawn by capital security, the U.S. dollar’s stability, and Miami’s strategic location.
- The multifamily sector and new developments are particularly attractive to foreign investors.
Latin America Fuels Miami’s Investment Boom
According to the latest International Report by MIAMI REALTORS®, Miami’s real estate market is the top choice for international buyers. In 2025, 15% of home purchases in the Miami metropolitan area were made by foreign buyers, a figure significantly higher than the national average of around 2% and Florida’s average of approximately 5%. This highlights the unique global appeal of the South Florida market.
Latin America remains the dominant force behind this international demand. Colombia and Argentina led the list of countries of origin for foreign buyers in Miami, followed by Mexico, Brazil, and Venezuela. For these investors, Miami’s real estate offers a stable way to preserve wealth in U.S. dollars and a hedge against economic volatility in their home countries. In 2025, international buyers acquired over 5,300 properties, investing a total of $4.4 billion, reinforcing Miami’s status as the nation’s leading market for foreign residential investment.
Factors Driving Foreign Investor Interest
Several key factors contribute to Miami’s allure for international investors. A staggering 93% of foreign buyers cited capital security, the stability of the U.S. legal framework, and Miami’s strategic location as primary reasons for investing. Florida’s tax-friendly environment, including the absence of state income tax, coupled with a market known for high liquidity and consistent demand, further enhances its attractiveness. For high-net-worth individuals from Latin America, Miami real estate serves as a crucial component of international portfolio diversification, offering potential rental income, personal use, and protection against country-specific risks.
The new development and pre-construction segments are also experiencing a notable increase in foreign capital. These projects are particularly appealing to Latin American investors seeking early entry points, flexible payment plans, and the potential for asset appreciation before project completion. Neighborhoods like Brickell, Downtown Miami, Edgewater, and Sunny Isles are seeing a high concentration of these transactions due to their urban development, international connectivity, and strong rental demand.
Miami’s Commercial Real Estate Appeal
Beyond residential properties, Miami’s commercial real estate market is also a significant draw for foreign investors. Financial incentives, abundant opportunities, and a business-friendly culture have positioned Miami as one of the top three most attractive U.S. commercial real estate markets for international buyers. Miami-Dade County saw a 30% increase in commercial sales volume in 2025, with the multifamily sector experiencing the largest growth, significantly influenced by foreign investment. This includes foreign developers establishing a presence in Miami, acquiring stakes in local companies, and investing in large multifamily projects. Notable transactions include Spanish billionaire Amancio Ortega’s firm acquiring a luxury apartment tower in Fort Lauderdale for $165 million. Despite global economic uncertainties, foreign capital continues to be a defining force in Miami’s multifamily and condo markets, driven by the city’s stability, income potential, and lifestyle appeal.