Rightmove has reported a significant increase in inquiries from US-based house hunters about UK properties, with a 19% rise compared to the same period last year.
This surge, covering January to early May 2025, marks the highest level of US inquiries since 2017.
Rightmove suggests this increased interest may be linked to global economic uncertainty following US President Donald Trump’s tariff announcements.
Edinburgh has emerged as the most popular location for US buyers, followed by various areas within London.
The data encompasses inquiries from those looking to relocate, purchase second homes, or invest in buy-to-let properties in the UK.
This trend reflects the potential impact of international economic shifts on the UK property market.
However, Rightmove said the US-based inquiries it is seeing are mainly relating to smaller homes with two bedrooms or fewer, suggesting that Americans are seeing UK properties as a possible opportunity for an investment or holiday home, rather than a permanent relocation.
The website also said that the US house hunter focus on Scotland marks a departure from the longer-term trend, with London having typically generated the most interest from US buyers over the past 10 years.
It suggested that lower property prices in Scotland may be attracting some potential buyers.
As well as Edinburgh, Glasgow is also one of the most common locations for inquiries from the US.
Glasgow currently sits above the London boroughs of Islington and Kensington and Chelsea for US house hunter inquiries.
Colleen Babcock, a property expert at Rightmove, said: “President Trump’s tariff announcements have led to more economic uncertainty globally, and we’re starting to see some of the effects of this on the UK property market.
“Whether it’s because the UK is seen as a more stable investment opportunity, or whether some buyers are considering a permanent move across the Atlantic, we’re seeing an increase in inquiries from the US. While a really interesting trend, it’s important to note that only a very small percentage of all UK inquiries come from the US.”
Toby Leek, president of property professionals’ body NAEA (National Association of Estate Agents) Propertymark, said parts of the UK “come at an affordable price for many overseas buyers”, as well as being picturesque.
He said: “Scotland is likely to be particularly popular due to its scenic landscapes and the fact that the average home is around £100,000 less compared to that in England.
“In some ways, those who are looking for a rural escape may see this as providing more for their money.”
Glynn Gibb, regional director at property firm John D Wood & Co, said: “We’ve certainly seen a steady rise in inquiries from American buyers in prime central London, particularly over the past 12 months.
“While it’s not a dramatic uptick, there’s a noticeable trend of high net worth individuals looking to move capital into what they see as a safe and stable market.
“For many US clients, London represents both a safe haven and a strategic investment.”
He added: “London’s culture and global connectivity make it an ideal springboard to Europe and beyond. Many are basing themselves here temporarily – often staying with friends – while they work out how long they plan to stay.
“For those expecting to remain less than five years, renting can often make more financial sense, especially when stamp duty is taken into account.”
The 10 areas of the UK where US residents want to move to
Here are the top 10 UK locations for inquiries from US house hunters, according to Rightmove, with the top locations for 2025 so far followed by the 2014-2024 long-term average in brackets:
1. Edinburgh, Scotland (Westminster, London)
2. Westminster, London (Edinburgh, Scotland)
3. Camden, London (Kensington and Chelsea, London)
4. Glasgow, Scotland (Camden, London)
5. Islington, London (Glasgow, Scotland)
6. Kensington and Chelsea, London (Cornwall, South West England)
7. Highland, Scotland (Highland, Scotland)
8. Argyll and Bute, Scotland (Argyll and Bute, Scotland)
9. Fife, Scotland (Fife, Scotland)
10. Tower Hamlets, London (Tower Hamlets, London)
