Costa Smeralda, the luxury real-estate market along Sardinia’s northeastern coast, is experiencing increasing interest from U.S. buyers, according to industry experts. Known as an exclusive Mediterranean destination long popular with European elites, the region is drawing a new wave of affluent American residents as well as remote workers seeking primary homes.
The area stretches approximately 35 miles from Olbia along a scenic coastline dotted with coves and promontories. Originally developed in the 1960s with a distinct Midcentury Modern architectural style, Costa Smeralda has maintained its reputation as a high-end enclave favored by Italy’s wealthy and international celebrities. Notable visitors over the years have included former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi, the Mentasi family associated with San Pellegrino water, along with recent summer guests such as Jeff Bezos, Lauren Sánchez Bezos, Naomi Campbell, and Leonardo DiCaprio.
Yachting remains central to the lifestyle and the real-estate market on the coast. Agents report that around two-thirds of prospective buyers arrive by yacht or tender for property viewings, underscoring the region’s maritime appeal. During the peak Mediterranean season, many wealthy homeowners spend nights aboard their yachts and use nearby estates primarily for entertaining.
The area is also benefiting from its proximity to the so-called Blue Zone, a cluster of Sardinian villages known for exceptional longevity. Local hotels promote wellness experiences focused on regional products like sheep-milk cheeses rich in bioactive compounds and polyphenol-rich red wines. Real-estate professionals say the Blue Zone designation has become an appealing selling point for luxury buyers attracted to the island’s lifestyle and health offerings.
Market data indicate strong growth in prime property values. In the fourth quarter of 2025, the average price per square foot for the top 5% of Costa Smeralda residences was approximately $2,412, a nearly 26% increase compared with pre-pandemic figures from 2019. This rate is significantly higher than comparable luxury markets in Italy such as Portofino and Lake Como, which averaged $1,375 and $1,228 per square foot respectively during the same period.
High-end transactions underscore the market’s strength, including the sale of a three-villa compound in Romazzino for about $189 million last year. While Italian and European buyers remain prominent, agencies report a notable increase in U.S. interest. Julia Bracco, head of the Costa Smeralda office for ImmobilSarda/Christie’s International Real Estate, stated that American inquiries have tripled since 2022. Buyers are increasingly looking for full-time residences rather than seasonal holiday homes.
The growing international presence has prompted infrastructural developments such as the Sardinia International School, which opened in 2025 to serve the expanding expatriate community’s families. Some new residents, such as Switzerland-based couple Luca and Nadina Piperno, were drawn by the prospect of a “slower life,” acquiring property near Olbia for about $1.6 million this summer. Luca works remotely as a CPA, while Nadina plans to focus on family life, with long-term intentions that include managing an olive grove and enrolling their children in the local international school.
Luxurious properties in Costa Smeralda vary widely in price. Coastal estates in prime locations can exceed $100 million, midsize villas with sea views typically start around $17 million, and smaller pied-à-terre options near Porto Cervo are available from approximately $1.44 million. The evolving market reflects a blend of enduring local luxury appeal and rising global demand, particularly from U.S. buyers drawn to the coast’s natural beauty and lifestyle amenities.
The introduction of seasonal direct flights by Delta Air Lines earlier this year, connecting New York’s JFK airport to Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport, has further facilitated access for American visitors and prospective buyers. This air link is seen as a key factor supporting the expanding U.S. presence in the area.