Florida continues to hold strong appeal for international homebuyers, even as shifting global dynamics and trade policies affect cross-border real estate interest. According to new data from Realtor.com®, international traffic accounted for 1.9% of all U.S. home search activity during the first quarter of 2025, up from 1.7% in Q1 2024, a clear signal that global appetite for U.S. real estate is on the rise.
Among all U.S. states, Florida stands out as a leading target, with Miami, Orlando, Tampa, Naples, Cape Coral, and North Port all ranking in the top 20 markets most searched by international buyers. Miami alone captured 8.7% of all international real estate traffic, holding the No. 1 spot for yet another year.
Canadian buyers remain the top source of international demand overall, accounting for 34.7% of traffic, though this is a decline from 40.7% in the same period last year. Florida cities continue to dominate Canadian buyer interest, particularly in Naples (59.6%), Cape Coral (59.1%), and North Port (56.4%), where Canadian interest represents the overwhelming majority of international searches. These markets, known for their year-round sunshine, beachfront properties, and relaxed lifestyle, have become reliable destinations for Canadians seeking retirement or second homes.
While demand from Mexico also dipped slightly, from 5.8% to 5.4%, Mexican shoppers continue to focus on the U.S.-Mexico border cities like San Diego, El Paso, San Antonio, and Houston, with a preference shaped by proximity, family ties, and cultural familiarity.
But beyond border cities and coastal favorites, Florida continues to demonstrate its staying power among international buyers seeking more than just beachfront views. Orlando remains firmly in the No. 4 spot nationally, capturing 2.9%of international home search traffic. Known for its tourism-driven economy and growing metro population, the city offers international buyers attractive investment opportunities, particularly in vacation rentals and suburban real estate.
Meanwhile, Naples and Marco Island, together ranked No. 20, stand out as a luxury real estate hub, drawing attention from high-net-worth buyers, particularly Canadians. These cities offer a blend of upscale living, golf communities, and waterfront access that continues to resonate with buyers seeking premium lifestyle options in the U.S.
The rise in international interest comes as overall foreign demand shifts regionally. While traditional magnets like New York and Los Angeles remain in the top three most-searched markets, there’s been noticeable growth in Texas metros, signaling new investment patterns driven by affordability and economic opportunity. Still, Florida’s diverse offerings, ranging from cosmopolitan cities to laid-back coastal towns, have helped maintain its broad appeal.
Looking ahead, Florida’s housing market is likely to remain a centerpiece in the international home buying conversation, especially as global buyers continue to seek safe, stable, and sunny destinations. Whether it’s Canadians exploring the Gulf Coast, Europeans investing in resort communities, or Latin Americans tapping into vacation rental potential, Florida offers something for everyone, and remains a bellwether for international housing demand in the U.S.
As the market evolves, so too does the competition, but Florida’s prominence in Realtor.com®’s Q1 2025 data affirms that the Sunshine State still shines brightest for many international buyers looking for
their next home.