Sunshine State Shines: Florida Dominates U.S. International Home Sales
Florida’s real estate market is experiencing a significant surge in international home sales, leading the nation for the 15th consecutive year. Foreign buyers invested a record $56 billion in U.S. homes between April 2024 and March 2025, marking a substantial rebound in demand. This increase, the first in eight years, highlights Florida’s enduring appeal due to its lifestyle, tax policies, and growing housing inventory.
A Resurgence in Foreign Investment
After a period of decline, foreign investment in the U.S. housing market has seen a dramatic turnaround. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) reported a 44% increase in existing home purchases by foreign buyers, totaling 78,100 units. This surge represents a 33.2% jump in dollar volume from the previous year, reaching $56 billion. Despite this significant growth, overall annual sales remain below pre-pandemic levels, influenced by elevated home prices and interest rates.
Florida’s Enduring Appeal
Florida continues to be the top destination for international homebuyers, accounting for 21% of all foreign purchases. This consistent popularity is attributed to:
- Lifestyle and Climate: Sunny weather and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Favorable Policies: No state income tax and a business-friendly environment.
- Market Opportunity: A recent boom in housing inventory, coupled with long-term value potential.
- Strategic Location: A gateway to the Americas with world-class infrastructure and global market access.
Tim Weisheyer, 2025 Florida Realtors President, emphasized that foreign investors contribute to the market’s stability, particularly in luxury and vacation home segments, often making cash purchases.
Key Takeaways
- Foreign buyers purchased 78,100 U.S. homes, a 44% increase year-over-year.
- Total international investment reached $56 billion, up 33.2% from the previous year.
- Florida led all states, attracting 21% of foreign buyers.
- The median purchase price for foreign buyers was a record high of $494,400.
- 47% of international buyers paid in cash, significantly higher than the overall market average of 28%.
Who Is Buying and Where?
The top five countries of origin for foreign buyers in the U.S. are:
| Country | Share of Purchases | Dollar Volume |
|---|---|---|
| China | 15% | $13.7 billion |
| Canada | 14% | $6.2 billion |
| Mexico | 8% | $4.4 billion |
| India | 6% | $2.2 billion |
| United Kingdom | 4% | $2.0 billion |
While Florida is the overall leader, specific buyer nationalities show preferences for other states:
- Chinese buyers: Primarily California (36% of their purchases).
- Canadian and British buyers: Strongly prefer Florida (48% and 45% respectively).
- Mexican and Indian buyers: Texas is their top choice (40% and 13% respectively).
Foreign buyers, particularly those paying in cash, tend to purchase more expensive properties in central locations, with a median price of $494,400 compared to the overall U.S. median of $408,500.
Sources
- Map Shows Where Foreign Citizens Are Buying Up U.S. Homes, Newsweek.
- Realtors see rebound in foreign homebuyers, Long Island Business News.
- Florida Leads in International Home Sales, | Florida Realtors.