The 10 most expensive houses in the world

Imagine your dream property, and then stretch your imagination even further, and you'll begin to grasp what the most expensive residences in the world look like.

When you bring together an architect with no limits on creativity and an owner with an inexhaustible budget, you end up with a luxury house that features bespoke elements customized to perfection, reflecting your personality and preferences.

The possibilities are endless, whether it's an open-air theater with a view of the Mediterranean sea, a completely circular architectural marvel, or groundbreaking technological innovations.

These multimillion-dollar homes go beyond the conventional definitions of "mega mansions" or "million-dollar houses." The most extravagant residences in the world can encompass 240 bedrooms and an astonishing 535 additional rooms.

Some of these opulent properties are towering architectural wonders designed to withstand earthquakes, while others are expansive estates offering breathtaking panoramic views. The homes of the wealthy and famous have truly transcended all limits and expectations.

1. Buckingham Palace, United Kingdom

Buckingham Palace may not currently be available for sale, but if it were, its estimated value would reach approximately $4.9 billion, securing its position as the most expensive residential property in the world. This iconic establishment features an impressive total of 240 bedrooms, comprising 188 staff rooms and 52 royal and guest bedrooms. Additionally, it offers amenities such as a swimming pool and a doctor's surgery, serving as the primary residence for the British Royal Family and allowing the public to explore its grandeur through guided tours.

In its entirety, this opulent estate, though hardly describable as a mere house, boasts an astonishing 775 rooms, encompassing 19 staterooms, 92 offices, and 78 bathrooms. It operates with an extensive team of staff and boasts beautiful gardens. There are even rumors of a few secret rooms discreetly concealed within this vast luxury mansion. Buckingham Palace covers an expansive area of approximately 77,000 square meters, positioning it as one of the largest houses in the world. It truly stands out among the most expensive houses in the world.

2. Antilia, India

Antilia, the world's most expensive private residence, is owned by Mukesh Ambani, the richest individual in India. The property is named after a mythical island in the Atlantic and spans an impressive 400,000 square feet. It is situated in the most prestigious postcode of India and boasts a towering structure with 27 floors, where each double-height ceiling is counted as two floors. Remarkably, it's designed to withstand significant earthquakes.

This magnificent residence in Mumbai seamlessly combines traditional and natural elements in its design. It includes six entire floors dedicated to parking, accommodating the extensive collection of expensive cars owned by the affluent Indian family. The property features a grand temple, multiple luxurious guest suites, three helipads, a health spa complete with indoor pools, a ballroom, a yoga studio, an ice-cream parlor, and a private movie theater for the enjoyment of its residents. Additionally, it boasts a unique snow room that dispenses artificial snowflakes to counteract India's high temperatures when they become too oppressive. Antilia is truly a symbol of luxury and opulence among the most expensive houses in the world.

3. Villa Leopolda, France

Villa Leopolda stands as the most expensive private residence in Europe, nestled between Monaco and Nice, in the renowned French Riviera. This luxurious property carries a rich history and was initially owned by King Leopold II of Belgium, hence its name. Over time, it transitioned through the ownership of several elite proprietors and notably served as a film set for Alfred Hitchcock's "To Catch a Thief."

Following the passing of its previous owner, Lebanese-Brazilian banker Edward Safra, in 1999, the villa was bequeathed to his wife, Lily Safra, who is affectionately known as 'The Gilded Lily.'

This opulent estate boasts an expansive swimming pool and extensive gardens, reportedly requiring the daily attention of more than 50 gardeners. The entire property spans approximately 80,000 square feet, showcasing the epitome of luxury and elegance among the most expensive houses in the world.

4. Villa Les Cèdres, France

Villa Les Cèdres, constructed around 1830, spans an impressive 18,000 square feet and resembles more of a grand palace than a simple residence. It is situated on 35 acres of land in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat in the South of France and holds a rich history, having once been owned by King Leopold II of Belgium.

In 2016, the century-old luxury mansion was acquired by Italy's Campari Group, who held the property through its ownership of the liqueur Grand Marnier. Subsequently, it was sold to Ukrainian billionaire and businessman Rinat Akhmetov in 2019.

This European luxury mansion features a plethora of bedrooms and communal spaces, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, a magnificent ballroom, and even a stable with accommodations for up to 30 horses. The outdoor grounds are adorned with 15,000 plants and 20 greenhouses housing tropical flowers from around the world. Villa Les Cèdres offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and boasts multiple balconies adorned with palm trees, solidifying its status as one of the most expensive houses in the world.

5. Les Palais Bulles, France

The Palais Bulles, often referred to as the Bubble Palace, stands out as one of the most extravagant homes on the French Riviera. Located in Théoule-Sur-Mer near Cannes, this luxury property is anything but ordinary, resembling a massive, terracotta-colored bubble. An aerial view of the Palais Bulles reveals a cluster of circular buildings, and this circular motif continues within the property's interior.

A tour of the Bubble Palace unveils cylindrical beds, swimming pools, and an array of artwork. The luxury villa was designed by Hungarian architect Antti Lovag and comprises ten suites, each uniquely decorated by contemporary artists. Beyond its round rooms, this opulent mansion features a sprawling, open-air 500-seat amphitheater on the hillside grounds, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.

The Bubble Palace was last owned by the late French fashion designer Pierre Cardin, who acquired the historic mansion in 1992 as a luxurious holiday residence. It has served as the backdrop for numerous fashion and celebrity events. Following Cardin's passing in 2020, the entire estate is available for rent but is not yet open to the public, further solidifying its status as one of the most expensive houses in the world.

6. The Odeon Tower Penthouse, Monaco

The Odeon Tower Penthouse is not your typical flat; it's known as the world's most expensive apartment and is perched atop a 560-foot skyscraper in Monaco. Offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, this luxurious penthouse features a 360-degree infinity pool with a private water slide for those who prefer salt-free swimming.

With a total area of 38,000 square feet spread across five levels, the penthouse boasts five kitchens on various floors, a dance floor, a lavish bathroom, and several staff bedrooms. It's worth noting that a parking space for this property is estimated to cost around $330,000, solidifying its status as one of the most expensive houses in the world.

7. Four Fairfield Pond, United States

Ira Rennert's Italian Renaissance–style estate, Four Fairfield Pond, located in the Hamptons, takes luxury to an extraordinary level. This opulent mansion stands as one of the most expensive houses in the United States and is designed to captivate those who seek endless entertainment, with its sprawling grounds and an extensive range of amenities.

Beyond its 18 bathrooms and 21 bedrooms, a stay at Four Fairfield Pond offers access to three swimming pools, a private basketball court, a two-lane bowling alley, and a 164-seat theater. As one of the largest homes in the United States, this 63-acre beachfront property boasts numerous features, including 12 chimneys, a private cinema, a 91-foot-long dining room, a billiards room, two tennis and squash courts, and even its own power plant, solidifying its status as one of the most expensive houses in the world.

8. 18-19 Kensington Gardens, United Kingdom

Located on one of the most exclusive streets in the UK, Kensington Gardens, 18-19 Kensington Gardens sets a new standard for millionaire properties. This neo-Georgian mansion, known as Nour Palace, was purchased in the 1990s for five million dollars. However, extensive restoration and a whopping $90 million investment have transformed it from a partially constructed and neglected house into a millionaire's dream, significantly increasing its value.

The luxury mansion boasts exquisite rooms with a touch of traditional charm, surrounded by meticulously manicured gardens that provide a delightful setting for warm spring days. Owned by Indian steel magnate Lakshmi Mittal, the property underwent renovations using the same marble as that used in the construction of the Taj Mahal, earning it the nickname "Taj Mittal." Among its numerous amenities are a hairdressing salon, an indoor swimming pool, a spa, steam showers, saunas, and parking space for up to 20 cars, firmly securing its place as one of the most expensive houses in the world.

9. Beyoncé & Jay Z’s Malibu Mansion, United States

In 2023, the power couple Jay-Z and Beyoncé made a significant real estate acquisition by purchasing California's most expensive house. This architectural masterpiece, characterized by its minimalist design and uncompromising quality, offers breathtaking views of Malibu's coastline. The expansive property spans over 30,000 square feet and came with a price tag of $200 million, which was considered a "bargain" compared to its initial listing of $295 million.

The exceptional cost of the property is not solely due to its prime location high above Paradise Cove, with unobstructed ocean and coastline views, or its enormous size. The house also boasts a world-class architectural pedigree. It was designed by the award-winning Japanese architect Tadao Ando and features concrete-clad structures, grand hallways, floor-to-ceiling glass walls, and meticulously landscaped lawns, making it one of the most expensive houses in the world.

10. Ellison Estate, United States

Billionaire Larry Ellison is the owner of the impressive Ellison Estate, a Japanese-style property that stands out as one of the most remarkable estates. Situated in Woodside, California, this waterfront property is nothing short of extraordinary. It is a compound of residences within a sprawling estate, featuring a man-made lake, a tea house, and a bathhouse.

Designed to harmonize with its natural surroundings, the property exudes a lodge-style aesthetic. It offers the epitome of comfort with plush velvet sofas and inviting fireplaces throughout. Nestled within a gated community, this estate is often regarded as the world's most remarkable lake house and provides an idyllic setting for a serene retreat.

Also Read: Top 10 Luxury Apartments in the World