Discover market trends in global luxury real estate

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Pacaso
November 11, 2025
A scenic coastal path in Carmel, CA, bordered by lush greenery and vibrant wildflowers, leading towards the ocean under a clear blue sky. This image captures the allure and natural beauty of Carmel, making it an appealing destination for buyers seeking a luxury vacation home in a trending market.

Market trends in global luxury real estate: 3 rising retreats

For 2025, buyers are paying attention to market trends in global luxury real estate while zeroing in on places that deliver an extraordinary everyday rhythm. Carmel, Santa Barbara and Breckenridge check that box with rare settings, strong lifestyle draws and a growing selection of high-design homes available through co-ownership. Below, see why each destination is trending, how the broader market supports thoughtful acquisitions, and where Pacaso fits your plan.
The luxury market shows steady momentum in 2025, with median prices for single-family luxury homes up 1.8% year-over-year and 8.0% versus 2023. Inventory has reached a two-year high, giving buyers more choice and negotiating power. Globally, the category is projected to grow at a 6.9% CAGR through 2035, with North America accounting for about 30% of market share. These market trends in global luxury real estate are fueling interest in lifestyle-led destinations like Carmel, Santa Barbara and Breckenridge.

Why Carmel is trending for 2025

Carmel pairs cinematic coastline and acclaimed dining with access to golf at Pebble Beach and a thriving arts scene. High demand and limited supply keep interest elevated, and Carmel vacation homes appeal to buyers who value quiet stretches of sand by day and intimate restaurants by night. Expect ocean-view architecture, outdoor living spaces and easy access to Big Sur drives, wine tasting and gallery hopping in the village.Hillside sits minutes from downtown Carmel along Highway 1, with cantilevered spaces designed to frame Pacific views. The pool terrace, outdoor fireplace and wood-fired pizza oven set the stage for long coastal afternoons and effortless hosting for owners.
Hillside in Carmel showcases indoor-outdoor living and ocean views, a setting that makes coastal routines effortless for owners.

Santa Barbara’s Mediterranean pace and culture

Framed by ocean and mountains, Santa Barbara blends refined dining, a lively arts calendar and quick access to wine country. Santa Barbara luxury homes often feature terraced gardens, view-forward rooms and indoor outdoor flow that suits long weekends and extended stays. The city’s year-round climate supports an easy daily routine of beach walks, downtown dinners and vineyard day trips.Riviera showcases ocean and mountain vistas from multiple terraces. A pool terrace off the great room and a rooftop lounge make it a natural base for wine country outings and relaxed evenings back at home.
Riviera in Santa Barbara offers poolside living and panoramic views, illustrating the appeal of Santa Barbara luxury homes for 2025 buyers.

Breckenridge for four seasons of alpine living

With world-class skiing, vibrant summers and a walkable historic core, vacation homes in Breckenridge offer four-season appeal. Expect mountain panoramas, outdoor kitchens and spaces crafted for hosting after a day on the slopes or trails. The town’s dining scene and festivals round out an energetic calendar, while easy access to fly-fishing, biking and hiking keeps the days full.Ski Hill brings panoramic views, heated decks and an outdoor kitchen to elevate apres-ski and summer evenings. Flexible entertaining spaces and a private balcony in the suite make it a true mountain retreat.
Ski Hill in Breckenridge captures alpine living with heated decks and sweeping views, a compelling example of vacation homes in Breckenridge.

How co-ownership fits these markets

Pacaso co-ownership aligns with these destinations by matching high-use lifestyles with right-sized ownership. You enjoy equity in a real home that is professionally designed and furnished, plus intuitive scheduling that supports frequent stays. For a deeper overview of how it works, see What is co-ownership property.

Pros and cons by destination

Carmel pros
  • Iconic coastline, galleries and dining within minutes of home
  • Strong appeal for Carmel vacation homes with ocean-view architecture and outdoor living
  • Easy access to Pebble Beach and nearby wine tasting
Carmel cons
  • Limited inventory can increase competition for top addresses
  • Peak-season crowds in town and along Highway 1
  • Driving times can extend when visiting Big Sur viewpoints
Santa Barbara pros
  • Mediterranean climate supports year-round use
  • Santa Barbara luxury homes prioritize terraces, views and seamless indoor outdoor flow
  • Proximity to wine country, beaches and a vibrant downtown
Santa Barbara cons
  • Desirable hillside and ocean-view zones can command premium pricing
  • Weekend traffic when festivals and events are in full swing
  • Popular restaurants often require advance planning for peak times
Breckenridge pros
  • Four-season lifestyle with skiing, hiking, biking and fishing
  • Vacation homes in Breckenridge often include expansive decks and gathering spaces
  • Walkable historic core with dining, shopping and events
Breckenridge cons
  • Altitude may require adjustment for visiting guests
  • Peak ski weeks are busy across the mountain and in town
  • Winter travel can take longer depending on road conditions

Which destination fits your lifestyle

If you picture quiet coastal mornings and gallery strolls, vacation homes in Carmel deliver a refined, low-key rhythm. For terrace-to-beach living with culture in every direction, luxury homes in Santa Barbara lead the list. If your calendar is built around ski days and summer trails, Breckenridge vacation homes offer a year-round mountain base. In each, market trends in global luxury real estate favor thoughtful buyers who value setting, design and time well spent.

Explore Pacaso homes in these markets

Ready to see more in each destination? Browse Carmel & Pebble Beach, Santa Barbara & Montecito and Breckenridge. For next steps, use our Second Home Calculator and review the pros and cons of fractional ownership to choose the fit that matches your lifestyle.Note: This article was generated with the help of an AI agent and reviewed by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and clarity.

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