Why Buying Property in London as an American is Increasingly Popular

American buyers seeking an international base are increasingly choosing to purchase property in prime central London. Luxury properties in London have long been sought-after by international buyers, yet there’s been a noticeable uptick in American interest. In fact, American buyers represented 25% of all London super prime property purchases in 2025, according to The Times.    

Find out more about the market trends that are seeing increasing numbers of American buyers snapping up London mansions in sought-after areas like Mayfair, Hampstead and Notting Hill. 

Why are Americans buying luxury property in London?  

London is easily reached by plane, in a workable time zone, and offers a change of surroundings without a complete cultural shift. Despite light-hearted comments to the contrary, the USA and UK share a common language and close ties, making living and working in London an easy transition for many.

Holding enduring appeal, areas such as Mayfair and Belgravia are often considered good locations for an investment property – and current exchange rates mean American buyers are seeing good value on property purchases and relocating to London.

Which wealthy Americans have moved to London recently?  

Some of London’s most exclusive property purchases by American expats have been made with the utmost discretion, but others have passed into public knowledge. Among the high-net-worth Americans to purchase property in London recently, you can count Tom Ford, former creative director of Gucci and Yves Saint Laurent, who bought an £80 million property in Chelsea in 2024.

Former Google CEO Eric Schmidt purchased a Grade-II listed mansion in Holland Park for just under £42 million. Not to mention, Enterprise heiress Christine Broadhurst Taylor and Lee Broughton bought a £68 million Hyde Park penthouse in 2023. 

What market trends make London attractive for Americans?  

Exchange Rate 

The sterling to dollar exchange rate can secure wealthy American buyers excellent value for money on luxury London mansions and apartments, under the weaker GBP and a strengthened USD.  

UK Tax Changes 

Recent changes to Stamp Duty Land Tax have made property purchases more expensive for UK buyers. Yet for American buyers, the relative discounts on UK property market purchases courtesy of the favourable exchange rate can make the difference negligible. 

Immigration Support 

As reported by CNN, over 5,500 Americans were given UK residency in 2024, and almost 2,000 applied to the UK Home Office for British citizenship in the first quarter of 2025 alone. Whether your move is a short term or long term one, there are many support services in place for Americans moving to the UK.  

Expat Community 

London is home to an established American expat community, offering a potential network for newcomers who want an overseas base with a familiar touch. Yet as a thriving multicultural hub, you will find any number of social scenes to immerse yourself in. 

Where are Americans moving within London?  

Timeless prime central London locations remain in demand among American expats. Mayfair and Belgravia on the edge of Westminster; Chelsea in easy reach of Battersea and the American Embassy; Notting Hill and Kensington; and to the north, Regent’s Park and Hampstead. Well-situated apartments, exceptional penthouses and spacious mansions can be found throughout the city, ranging from impeccable period properties to luxury new build penthouses. 

What features make London attractive to wealthy Americans?  

In addition to affordable healthcare and the availability of safe, secluded areas in the heart of the city, London offers plentiful amenities for high-net-worth Americans. Americans are also able to take out a mortgage in the UK, should you choose. The city’s multiple airports make London an ideal base for international travel, with direct flights across the United States, Europe, Middle East and Asia. If you are moving to London with a young family, the UK’s excellent private schools, American schools and internationally respected universities are easily accessible.  

World-class leisure is on tap, from West End theatres to respected art galleries and museums. There are over 80 Michelin-starred restaurants to sample, countless luxury boutiques and leading auction houses. It’s all here. 

How can Eaton Premier help Americans move to London?  

Relocating can be complex, but finding your future London residence need not be. Let Eaton Premier locate a safe, secure property for you and your family in London’s exclusive neighbourhoods such as Chelsea and Knightsbridge. Our service doesn’t end there, as we will gladly put you in contact with the right designers to refurbish your newly purchased property, or furnish your new rental.  

Whether you are seeking to buy a long-term pied-a-terre or rent a short-term family home, we will be glad to assist. Contact Eaton Premier to find out more about our tailored services.