According to a study by luxury real estate agency Barnes, Barcelona ranks 22nd in the Barnes City Index 2025, which lists the top 50 cities preferred by the ultra-wealthy for investment. This index, part of the agency's report, highlights the best global cities for investing in luxury real estate, placing Barcelona ahead of other prominent cities such as Lisbon, Los Angeles, Amsterdam and Beijing.
The Catalan capital continues to be a major attraction for international investors, ranking fourth among buyers and securing a place among the top 10 European cities for investing in such assets.
Tourist appeal
Thanks to its climate, quality of life and architecture, Barcelona is a secure investment and continues to be one of the most appealing destinations in the luxury real estate market. "Barcelona is an exceptionally attractive city due to its stable climate, coastline, excellent cuisine and vibrant cultural and leisure offerings. When compared to major world capitals, two key conclusions stand out. Firstly, Barcelona still offers attractive prices compared to many of these cities, and secondly, it is difficult for these competing cities to match all the characteristics that make Barcelona unique," explains Albert Milian, general manager of Barnes in Barcelona.
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Barcelona has become a popular destination for a large community of digital nomads. According to Milian, the post-COVID period undoubtedly marked a turning point. Barcelona saw a significant influx of foreign capital, particularly between 2015 and 2020. "It was after the lifting of the general lockdown that clients returned in much greater numbers. This has resulted in the period from 2020 to 2025 solidifying Barcelona as an internationally recognised city for home ownership," he explains.
Barcelona's most desirable neighbourhoods
Among the city's most popular neighbourhoods, Barnes experts highlight areas such as L'Eixample, Zona Alta and the waterfront, which have seen increasing demand in recent years.
For instance, L'Eixample has become the most sought-after neighbourhood in the city, particularly for its spacious flats, ranging from 120 to 200 m², many of which retain modernist elements and high ceilings in buildings constructed between 1890 and 1950. These properties appeal to both residents and investors who appreciate their historical and architectural value.
In the Zona Alta, neighbourhoods such as Pedralbes, Sarrià, Sant Gervasi and Turó Park are in high demand, especially for properties over 200 m², particularly those with large gardens, swimming pools and parking spaces. These luxury residential areas also offer exclusive amenities, including tennis clubs, gyms and beauty centres.
Other desirable areas include the Gothic Quarter, Poblenou and the luxury developments of Diagonal Mar. This region remains one of the most attractive, especially due to its proximity to the sea and its unique atmosphere.
Prices in the city's luxury areas
In these areas, prices per square metre can reach as high as €8,000, reflecting the strong buyer demand and the stability of Barcelona’s property market, which continues to attract students, tourists and international investors alike.
According to the Barnes expert, when it comes to the upper tier of the luxury market, “we’re selling at over €9,000/m² for homes that aren’t penthouses. For penthouses, prices start at around €12,000/m². In prime areas with more modest finishes, prices typically range between €7,500/m² and €8,500/m².”
The most sought-after flat type is a renovated home in a historic building in the Eixample district, where original architectural features have been preserved or carefully restored.
Buyer profile in Barcelona
Clients with a budget of under €1 million are primarily local buyers, while properties priced up to €2 million tend to attract a more diverse mix of Spanish and international purchasers. Since 2023, there has been a notable increase in interest from American buyers.
For purchases exceeding €2.5 million, the clientele is almost exclusively international, whether buying a primary residence, a holiday home or as an investment. The ultra-luxury segment, with prices above €4–5 million, has seen significant growth, fuelled by new high-end developments.
Pending geopolitical factors
Investment in luxury homes depends on a range of factors. According to the Barnes expert, “it’s still too early to assess the market impact of recent property tax increases, although this type of buyer is not significantly affected. They are more influenced by the geopolitical landscape and how it impacts the economies in which they operate their businesses.”
Given that North American buyers currently represent the most important market in Barcelona, the potential impact of Trump-era or future US policies on luxury property purchases is being monitored closely.