The UK’s property market is experiencing a surge, sparked by a wave of Americans moving to the country and expats returning home – a phenomenon partly linked to celebrity influence and people prioritising new practical lifestyle choices.
According to new data from Clifton Private Finance, expat inquiries from the US to the UK have increased by 143 per cent in the past year, indicating a sharp rise in the number of American buyers who are seriously considering moving to the UK.
The trend follows a wave of high-profile celebrity relocations in recent years, with Hampstead becoming a popular base for stars such as Ryan Gosling and Ariana Grande.
At the premiere of her legal drama series, All’s Fair, Kim Kardashian was also quizzed on a potential move to the UK.
James Mulvaney, Head of Digital at Clifton Private Insurance, said: ‘What was once a niche fascination with moving to the UK has evolved into a clear pattern of genuine intent.
‘Our data also shows that conversion rates rose by 60 per cent in May 2025 and have remained high since, which tells us that this isn’t a passing spike. There is real momentum behind expats considering a move back to the UK.’
He added: ‘What we are seeing now is more than curiosity. It reflects a growing appetite for stability and opportunity in an international market that feels both familiar and secure.’
Other market signals corroborate this pattern – as Google search data shows that search volumes for ‘UK mortgage’ in the US have been climbing steadily since May 2025, with a substantial rise in July.
The UK’s property market is experiencing a surge, sparked by a wave of Americans moving to the country and expats returning home
The trend follows a wave of high-profile celebrity relocations in recent years, with Hampstead becoming a popular base for stars such as Ryan Gosling (pictured in Hampstead at a local restaurant) and Ariana Grande
Additional data from Clifton Private Insurance reveals that in September, it received the highest number of enquiries from American nationals this year – up 30 per cent compared to the monthly average.
Furthermore, a recent BBC article noted that some Americans are exploring international real estate. including in the Eastern Caribbean, as they reconsider their long-term plans.
These trends together indicate that US citizens – not just British expats – are showing an increased interest in moving abroad.
According to Mulvaney, the increase in enquiries might be as a result of people re-assessing their options in the current global economy.
The UK offers a ‘stable and attractive’ environment for US expats to work and live in, especially given how strong the dollar has remained over the past year.
Mulvaney said: ‘Favourable exchange rates mean that US buyers currently get more for their money when purchasing in the UK, particularly in major cities such as London, Manchester and Edinburgh.
‘For those considering relocation, the UK offers a blend of economic stability, cultural familiarity and global connectivity that’s hard to match.’
Lifestyle and practical advantages may also play a part, with the UK being a prime location for Americans who are seeking an international experience without a drastic cultural adjustment.
The UK offers a ‘stable and attractive’ environment for US expats to work and live in, especially given how strong the dollar has remained over the past year
The ongoing preference for hybrid and remote work in the UK has been a driving factor, which essentially gives American nationals the opportunity to explore life abroad while maintaining their existing work commitments.
Mulvaney warned: ‘While the opportunities are strong, navigating the UK mortgage system as a US citizen, or returning expat, can still be complex.
‘Getting the right advice early makes all the difference. Lenders may assess income and credit differently, and cross-border financial arrangements can add extra steps.
‘With the right guidance, securing a mortgage in the UK is entirely possible, whether you’re a returning expat or an American buyer.’
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