California dominates Realtor.com's top 10 list of most expensive U.S. ZIP codes

Looking for a luxury estate in the U.S.? Realtor.com says it'll cost you at least $5.5 million just to enter the country's most exclusive enclaves

Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images

A million dollars doesn't go as far as it used to — especially in America's most exclusive enclaves. In the country's priciest neighborhoods, seven figures won't get you through the door. Eight figures might.

The entry point to crack this list now sits at $5.5 million, according to Realtor.com senior economist Anthony Smith. That's roughly five times the broader luxury market threshold of $1.2 million.

Realtor.com identified the 10 most expensive communities in the U.S. by analyzing areas with at least 30 active listings in January 2026. The result is a map of extreme wealth concentration, from the sun-drenched California hillsides to horse country in the Hamptons.

California dominates the ranking, claiming six of the top 10 spots. The state's grip on luxury real estate is a consequence of limited coastal supply, constrained regulation, and persistent global demand from finance and tech wealth. Florida and New York each claim two spots, while Arizona makes a debut appearance.

Malibu is conspicuous in its absence from the top 10. Last year's deadly wildfires cooled buyer interest by 46%, with more listings representing land or rebuild opportunities rather than move-in ready estates. That's a meaningful distinction for buyers at this level.

1. Newport Coast, Calif.

Jeff Gritchen / MediaNews Group / Orange County Register via Getty Images

Median list price: $12.5 million | Median sq. ft.:........

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