From April 2024 to March 2025, international buyers poured a staggering $56 billion into U.S. residential real estate — a 33% increase over the previous year — snapping up 78,100 homes (up 44%), ending a post‑2017 decline
What Jumped, What Stayed
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Median price: Now at a record $494,400, a 4% rise year-over-year
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Cash purchases: A remarkable 47% of foreign buyers paid in cash — compared to 28% among domestic buyers — largely due to high U.S. mortgage rates
Who’s Buying & Where?
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🏆 China leads the pack — 15% of purchases, about $13.7B, ~11,700 homes
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Next are Canada (14%), Mexico (8%), India (6%), and the UK (4%)
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Most popular states:
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Florida: 21% of foreign transactions — topping the rankings for 15+ years
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California (15%), followed by Texas, New York, and Arizona
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What's Fueling the Surge?
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The post-pandemic economic recovery reignited demand
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Persistent high mortgage rates nudged buyers toward cash deals and upscale properties
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This period covered transactions prior to April 2025 tariff announcements—meaning evolving geopolitical factors could reshape future trends .
But There Are Headwinds
Despite strong growth, home prices and interest rates remain high, limiting the rebound compared to pre-pandemic levels
📊 Quick Stats Summary
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Dollar Volume | $56B (+33%) |
| Homes Purchased | 78,100 (+44%) |
| Median Transaction Price | $494,400 |
| Cash Purchases | 47% |
| Top Buyer Countries | China, Canada, Mexico, India, UK |
| Leading States | Florida, California, Texas, New York, Arizona |
Why It Matters
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Economic magnet: The U.S. continues to draw foreign investment, helping fuel key markets like Florida and California.
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Luxury pressure: Cash-fueled deals are pushing prices, especially in upscale segments — potentially squeezing local buyers.
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Geopolitical impact looming: April’s tariffs might slow Canadian and other foreign demand — a trend to watch for 2026 data.
