The Luxury Market in 2026: More Than Resilient—A Legacy Asset

The luxury real estate market has never followed a simple pattern. Its performance is shaped by wealth creation, generational change, geopolitical uncertainty, and deeply personal decisions about where—and how—people choose to live.

At the launch of the Coldwell Banker Global Luxury 2026 Trend Report, one thing is clear: despite shifts in the global market, luxury is not retreating. On the contrary, it is proving durable and evolving into something more intentional, values-driven, and built to endure over time.

Resilience in Local Markets

Nearly 80% of Coldwell Banker luxury property specialists describe their local markets as resilient. This stability is no coincidence—it reflects how buyers are redefining the role real estate plays in their lifestyle choices and legacy planning.

The Great Wealth Transfer: Who Will Inherit Luxury

Over the next decade, an estimated $38.3 trillion in global wealth will change hands, with real estate at the center of that transfer. In the United States alone, $2.4 trillion in property assets are expected to transfer over the next ten years, accounting for more than 50% of all global property transfers.

High-net-worth individuals—those with $5 million to $30 million in assets—will drive 65.7% of these transfers. While Generation X is leading near-term shifts, Millennials are expected to inherit the largest share over the next 25 years.

These new buyers are not seeking status in traditional ways. They prioritize quality of life, wellness, flexibility, and long-term value. They allocate a higher percentage of their wealth to real estate—particularly in the $3 million to $10 million range—and seek homes meant to be actively enjoyed, not simply held.

Luxury Real Estate as a Stable Asset

In the U.S., ultra-high-net-worth buyers increased their wealth by 58% between 2020 and 2025, while their real estate holdings grew by 59.9%. This far outpaces the global average, where real estate investment rose just 16.3%.

In a volatile world, capital gravitates toward stability. Luxury real estate is increasingly viewed as a safe haven—an intentional investment and a foundation for values-based lifestyle decisions. This approach, known as “nest investing,” is particularly strong among younger generations. Spending on luxury homes in the U.S. is projected to rise by 6% this year.

New Centers of Wealth: The Geography of Luxury

Migration among high-net-worth individuals increased by 42.8% in 2023 and is expected to grow an additional 16.2% by 2026. Buyers are seeking what we call “resilient wealth havens”—markets where economic strength, tax environments, market performance, and quality of life align.

Mobility itself has become a strategy. Choosing where to live today enables greater flexibility, stability, and security for individuals and their families.

Quiet Luxury Fades: A Shift Toward “Living Large”

The trend of “quiet luxury”—discreet, minimalist, understated—has begun to fade. Today’s buyers want more: more space, more bedrooms, more land, and greater distinction.

Global inquiries for single-family homes with five or more bedrooms rose 63.7%.

Requests for one-of-a-kind properties increased 78%.

Interest in castles and land rose by 35% and 38.2%, respectively.

It’s no longer just about square footage. Buyers are seeking exclusivity, exceptional views, privacy, and move-in-ready homes. More than 50% of properties sold this year featured ocean views, and nearly half highlighted privacy as a key attribute.

Discernment and Resilience

Both buyers and sellers are approaching the market with greater thoughtfulness. Buyers are prioritizing resilient markets that combine economic fundamentals and long-term performance with lifestyle amenities. Sellers are carefully weighing whether to reposition assets or hold, evaluating the true potential of their properties.

Nearly 80% of luxury markets can be classified as resilient, with rising median prices, steady sales activity, and balanced supply and demand.

Conclusion: Luxury as a Legacy Asset

These shifts reflect a deeper perspective on wealth, security, and legacy. Luxury real estate is no longer just a market—it is an expression of values, a hedge against uncertainty, and a foundation for living well over decades to come.

Luxury is redefining itself: space, distinction, and personal expression.

Understanding these trends is essential for buyers, sellers, and advisors looking to anticipate where the luxury market is headed.

To access the full 2026 Trend Report, visit:
https://www.coldwellbankerluxury.com/editorial/reports