Amid rising global economic uncertainty, inquiries from American property seekers into the UK housing market have reached their highest level since 2017, according to new data from Rightmove. The online property portal reported a 19% year-on-year increase in searches from US-based buyers between January and early May 2025, indicating a notable shift in international property interest patterns.
Rightmove links this trend to recent tariff announcements by US President Donald Trump, which have heightened concerns around economic stability and encouraged some Americans to explore opportunities abroad.
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Why Americans Are Eyeing the UK Property Market
Economic Uncertainty Driving Global Investment Shifts
Analysts point to global market volatility as a core reason behind the surge. Colleen Babcock, property expert at Rightmove, stated that buyers may view the UK as a more stable and secure investment environment.
“Whether they’re planning a temporary stay, a long-term move, or a strategic investment, the uptick in interest is clear,” Babcock said. However, she emphasized that US inquiries still represent a relatively small fraction of total activity on the platform.
Affordable and Scenic Alternatives to the US Market
Toby Leek of the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA) Propertymark noted that lower average house prices in parts of the UK—particularly in Scotland—make the country attractive to overseas buyers. The average property in Scotland is approximately £100,000 less than the average in England.
“Americans looking for a rural escape may find that their money stretches further here,” Leek said, highlighting Scotland’s picturesque landscapes and affordability
Edinburgh and Glasgow Lead US Buyer Demand
Shift Away from Traditional London-Focused Demand
Edinburgh has emerged as the most searched location among US-based property hunters, outpacing even long-popular areas like Westminster and Kensington & Chelsea in London. Glasgow, meanwhile, also ranked higher than several affluent London boroughs—a departure from the past decade, where London consistently dominated transatlantic interest.
According to Rightmove, American buyers are focusing primarily on two-bedroom homes or smaller, suggesting interest in investment properties or holiday homes rather than permanent relocations.
Top 10 UK Areas US Buyers Are Targeting in 2025
Based on Rightmove data, here are the current most popular locations for US property inquiries:
- Edinburgh, Scotland
- Westminster, London
- Camden, London
- Glasgow, Scotland
- Islington, London
- Kensington and Chelsea, London
- Highland, Scotland
- Argyll and Bute, Scotland
- Fife, Scotland
- Tower Hamlets, London
London Still Seen as a Safe Bet for Wealthy Investors
Despite the shift toward Scottish destinations, central London remains a hotspot for high-net-worth American buyers. Glynn Gibb of John D Wood & Co reported a “steady rise” in inquiries from Americans seeking homes in London’s prime districts.
“London offers a unique combination of cultural appeal and global connectivity,” Gibb said. “It’s a strategic choice for those looking to establish a base in Europe.”
Many buyers, he added, are using London as a temporary residence while deciding on long-term plans—often opting to rent rather than buy in the short term due to UK stamp duty considerations.
Outlook: What This Means for the UK Housing Market
While American interest represents just a sliver of the overall UK property market, the growing appetite for UK homes among overseas buyers could signal larger shifts in international real estate trends. With economic volatility continuing to influence buyer behavior, the UK may remain a target for those seeking a combination of stability, affordability, and lifestyle appeal.
In Summary: Rising US inquiries into UK homes—especially in Scotland and parts of London—underscore how global economic shifts are influencing buyer behavior. Whether for investment, relocation, or lifestyle, the UK appears increasingly attractive to Americans exploring overseas property options.
This article is originally published on independent
