Latin Americans Are Buying in Miami: A Market on the Rise

Miami has established itself as one of the world’s most connected cities. According to Miami Realtors, the city offers direct flights to more than 170 destinations across 64 countries, with nearly 3,800 flights per week, underscoring its role as a global gateway. This geographic advantage, positioned at the crossroads of North and South America, makes Miami a natural hub for business, tourism, and above all real estate investment.

_{Source: Miami Realtors New Construction Global Sales Report}

While buyers arrive from every corner of the world, Latin Americans stand out as the most influential group shaping Miami’s property market. Their investments reflect not only Miami’s international appeal but also the cultural and economic ties that make the city feel like a second home.

Latin American buyers are reshaping Miami’s skyline. According to Miami Association of Realtors, in just 18 months leading up to June 2025, 49% of new construction sales were made by international buyers, and an impressive 86% of them came from Latin America. From Downtown to Coconut Grove, this surge is redefining Miami’s real estate market and positioning the city as the place where Latin America meets the U.S.

At The Edit, we see this relocation as more than an investment trend, it’s a story about cultural ties, financial security, and Miami’s unique role as a gateway for international buyers. This week, we explore what’s fueling this boom, the neighborhoods drawing the most attention, and why Miami continues to be the city of choice for Latin Americans looking to build both wealth and a future.

Why Latin Americans Are Investing in Miami

1. Economic Stability in Uncertain Times

Inflation and political shifts in countries like Colombia, Mexico, and Argentina are motivating buyers to safeguard their wealth in USD. Across Latin America, rising inflation, currency devaluation, and shifting government policies have created uncertainty that pushes investors to diversify abroad. For many, acquiring property in Miami is less about speculation and more about preserving capital in a stable currency and a trusted global market. According to Miami Realtors, Latin American buyers now represent the majority of South Florida’s new construction sales, accounting for nearly 86% of all international purchases, a clear indication of their dominant role in shaping the region’s real estate market.

2. Safer & Smarter Investments

In response to the tragic 2021 Surfside condo collapse, Florida introduced stricter safety standards for aging condominium buildings. For prospective buyers, this means older units may require significant upgrades and higher association fees to remain compliant. By contrast, new developments are built to updated codes, minimizing risk and offering peace of mind. Beyond safety, they provide modern amenities such as gyms, pools, and concierge services, while many developers continue to attract international investors with pre-construction incentives and early-purchase discounts.

3. Policy & Tax Benefits

Florida’s no state income tax and U.S. incentives for foreign investors make Miami especially appealing to high-net-worth Latin American families.

4. Cultural Familiarity & Community

Shared language, cuisine, and cultural traditions make Miami feel like an extension of home, easing the transition for new residents. According to Newsweek, with 70% of Miami’s population identifying as Hispanic or Latino, international buyers from Latin America find a sense of familiarity in the city.

5. Long-Term Growth & Trust

For Latin American investors, Miami real estate is not just about short-term opportunity but long-term preservation of wealth. The market has demonstrated resilience through economic shifts, consistently attracting global demand. According to Miami Realtors, international buyers continue to purchase in Miami with the confidence that property values will hold and appreciate over time. This trust reinforces Miami’s reputation as one of the most reliable markets in the U.S. for wealth protection and growth.

_{Source: 2025 International Transactions In U.S. Residential Real Estate, National Association of Realtors}

Communities Latin Americans Love

According to the New Construction of Global Sales Report of Miami Realtors, the following are the Miami new construction market (18-month period ending June 2025):

Downtown Miami

Downtown Miami is popular with Latin American buyers because 86% of international buyers in this area were Latin American in the past 18 months. The neighborhood combines a vibrant cultural scene with modern high-rises and proximity to entertainment, business, and the arts, making it the epicenter of Latin American investment.

Coconut Grove

Coconut Grove is attractive to Latin American buyers because 97% of international buyers here were from Latin America. With leafy streets, waterfront parks, and top-rated schools, the neighborhood offers a family-friendly environment that appeals to long-term residents.

Brickell 

Latin Americans invest in Brickell because it is Miami’s financial center, combining global business with luxury living. In this district, 79% of international buyers came from Latin America, reflecting strong demand for modern towers and skyline views.

Sunny Isles Beach

Sunny Isles Beach is a favorite for Latin American buyers, particularly Brazilians and Argentinians, because of its beachfront condominiums and resort-style atmosphere. The neighborhood offers both lifestyle appeal and investment opportunities.

Coral Gables

Latin American families choose Coral Gables for its historic character, Mediterranean architecture, and proximity to Miami International Airport. Its reputation for prestigious schools and strong community ties makes it a long-standing choice.

_{Source: Miami Realtors New Construction Global Sales Report}

Location Trends Among International Buyers

Over the past decade, the majority of international buyers have consistently chosen central city and urban areas for their investments, with that share reaching 40% in 2025. According to Miami Realtors, this reflects the strong appeal of Miami’s urban core, particularly neighborhoods like Downtown, Brickell, and Coconut Grove, where new developments and cultural amenities align with international demand.

At the same time, resort areas and suburban communities continue to attract buyers seeking lifestyle-driven investments, though their share remains lower compared to Miami’s central districts. The trend highlights how Latin American investors, in particular, favor urban centers that combine luxury, accessibility, and long-term growth potential.

_{Source: 2025 International Transactions In U.S. Residential Real Estate, National Association of Realtors}

What This Means for Miami’s Market

The growing presence of Latin American buyers isn’t just influencing sales, it’s reshaping how properties are used. Many international investors are not only purchasing homes for personal use but also as vacation properties or rental income opportunities. According to Miami Realtors, 47% of foreign buyers in 2025 purchased with these uses in mind, compared with just 16% of all U.S. existing-home buyers.

This wave of demand highlights Miami’s unique position: a global city where financial opportunity meets cultural familiarity, attracting buyers who want both security and lifestyle.

_{Source: 2025 International Transactions In U.S. Residential Real Estate, National Association of Realtors}

The Edit’s Take

Latin Americans aren’t just buying in Miami, they’re investing in its future. Their influence is fueling growth, stabilizing markets, and reinforcing Miami’s role as a global hub. Whether it’s a pre-construction condo in Brickell or a family estate in Coral Gables, Miami offers the rare combination of financial upside, cultural connection, and lifestyle appeal that few cities in the world can match.

If you are considering relocating or investing in Miami, our team at The Edit works with top realtors born and raised in the city—professionals who understand every neighborhood, market trend, and opportunity. With local expertise and a global perspective, we are here to help you make Miami your next home or your smartest investment.

Leading this vision is Lindsey Lamchick, Founder and CEO of The Edit. A top-ranked real estate broker and attorney, Lindsey has been guiding clients since 2012 with a rare combination of legal expertise, market insight, and a sharp eye for detail. Known for delivering exceptional results with integrity, precision, and a personal touch, she ensures that every client’s investment journey in Miami is managed with the highest level of professionalism.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why are Latin Americans buying so much real estate in Miami?

Latin Americans are buying real estate in Miami because high inflation, currency instability, and political uncertainty at home make Miami the safest and most strategic place to invest. Miami offers stability in USD, strong cultural ties, and a trusted global market that protects long-term wealth.

Which Latin American countries are leading the trend?

The Latin American countries leading the trend in Miami real estate are Colombia, Mexico, and Argentina, followed closely by Brazil. These countries account for the majority of Latin American buyers in South Florida’s property market.

Which neighborhoods are most popular in Miami?

The most popular neighborhoods in Miami for Latin American buyers are Downtown Miami, Coconut Grove, Brickell, Sunny Isles Beach, and Coral Gables stand out as favorites.

Are new builds more attractive than older condos?

Yes, new builds are more attractive than older condos for international buyers. New developments follow stricter safety regulations, require fewer maintenance costs, and are easier to manage from abroad. Many also offer early-buyer discounts, making them a smart investment choice.

Is Miami still affordable for international buyers?

Miami is still affordable for international buyers compared to global cities like New York or Los Angeles. While prices have increased, Miami continues to offer better value, no state income tax, and strong long-term appreciation potential.