I’ve scoured the U.S. coastlines, searching for the most expensive areas to live in – because when you’ve got money to spend, you want to spend it by the water. What kind of cash am I talking about? Deep pockets. If you’ve got a cool million just laying around, read on.
Central Florida
When most people think of Florida, they think of Universal Studios and Walt Disney World, but if you’re one of 73,000 or so ultra-high-net-worth individuals in America, you’re privy to the Sunshine State’s much glitzier side.
Neighborhoods like Alaqua, Bay Hill, and the Country Club of Orlando boast some of the East Coast’s biggest homes. So, if you’re in the market for an eight-bedroom, 10,000 sq. ft. mega-mansion overlooking the bay, Central Florida is your kind of place. It’ll cost you somewhere around $1.7 million, but that’s chump change compared to other zip codes in the U.S.
Southern California
We all know Cali is the capital of the rich and famous, but just how wealthy do you have to be to live there? Houses (more like sanctuaries) in star-studded Malibu sell in the upward of $10 million – a small price to pay for brag-worthy Pacific views.
You’ll find more luxury estates along the picturesque coast of Orange County. Most homes in Laguna Beach, Dana Point, and Corona Del Mar feature their own private pool and hot tub overlooking the ocean. If yours doesn’t, you’re not getting your money’s worth. But don’t worry, you can always move to our next spot.
South Carolina
Let’s head back to the East Coast, to the Palmetto State. Yes, Charleston’s subtropical shorelines are pretty, but I’m betting you’re looking for a place that offers much more. More sparkle, more prestige, and that private pool with hot tub I mentioned earlier.
You can have it all – if you’re willing to empty your wallet and savings account. Beachfront mansions on Kiawah Island, Isle of Palms, and St. Phillips Island average $13 million. Most come with multiple patios (since one is never enough), a putting green, and their very own boat dock. You’ve got to park your superyacht somewhere.
Hawaiian Islands
If tropical sunsets and sapphire waters are more your thing, and you don’t mind shelling out $20 million for a beachfront house (trust us, it’s worth every penny), one of Hawaii’s eight islands just might be your forever home.
I know I mentioned $20 million, but if you’re going to go big – go seriously big. Let’s double that price tag and expand our options to multi-property estates on the island of Hanalei, because you don’t need just one home, you need a couple within walking distance of each other. Kula, Makena, and Kailua also have giant properties up for grabs.
If you somehow didn’t find the perfect mansion to fit your opulent lifestyle, you can always go international. I’ve heard Dubai’s got some lavish beachfront villas you can call home for $50 million. Better start saving now.
