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Overview of Changing Global Home Buying Trends

Recent research conducted by Realtor.com® offers insightful analysis regarding the evolving patterns in international home shopping across the United States. Through the first quarter of 2026, international home-buyers have represented 1.6% of online shopping demand, reflecting an increase from 1.2% reported in the same period of 2020. Notably, Miami maintains its status as the prime U.S. destination for international buyers, securing a significant 10.3% of all international online views. In contrast, Los Angeles is experiencing a steady decline in global interest, and Canadian buyers are cautiously re-entering the U.S. housing market.

Los Angeles's Dimming Appeal

The allure of Los Angeles as a premier choice for international home buyers has been diminishing. High living costs, exorbitant insurance rates due to fire risks, and California's hefty tax regulations have contributed to a decline in the city’s appeal. Over the years, its share of international online views has plummeted from 7.9% in the first quarter of 2020 to just 4.6% by early 2026.

This decline has led to a noticeable shift towards other U.S. cities where affordability, lower taxes, and robust economic growth can attract savvy home buyers. Dallas, Texas, has particularly emerged as a new hotspot, seeing increased interest from international buyers across all regions, particularly North America, Oceania, and South America. Interestingly, Dallas’s appeal has surged from 1.6% in 2020 to 2.7% in early 2026 for North American buyers, while interest from Oceania and South America has also significantly increased.

Meanwhile, Miami has notably benefitted from European interest, which has risen from 6.9% to 8.0%. Similarly, New York has garnered attention from Asian buyers, with interest growing from 6.2% to 6.6% in the same time frame. According to Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com®, these shifts highlight a fundamental transformation in priorities among global buyers.

Cautious Canadian Buyers Returning

Despite the shadow cast by recent U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods, individuals from Canada remain the largest segment of international buyers on Realtor.com®, accounting for 37.8% of international traffic in Q1 2026. However, this figure represents a cautious recovery from a previous peak of 41.8% before tariffs were implemented, declining to 34.8% in early 2025 and only slightly rebounding since.

Canadian buyers show a distinct preference for properties in the Sun Belt and Southwest regions of the U.S. Noteworthy markets include Cape Coral and Naples, both in Florida, where up to 71% of international demand is sourced from Canada. The rising trend of Canadian interest in these particular markets was marked by significant year-over-year gains, reinforcing the enduring appeal of warm weather and relative affordability.

Summary

Overall, the transformation of international home buying trends across the United States indicates a dynamic shift. Miami's standing as a favored destination is juxtaposed with Los Angeles's waning popularity, reflective of broader socioeconomic factors and market conditions. The gradual yet steady return of Canadian buyers hints at the complexities of cross-border trade and how external policies can affect real estate dynamics. The ongoing evolution in buyer preferences emphasizes the importance of adaptability in the real estate market, while highlighting shifting demographics and international investor sentiment.

As always, Realtor.com® remains committed to providing comprehensive tools and insights to facilitate these transactions across the ever-changing landscape of real estate.