R
ussian nationals' interest in US real estate surged by 78.5% year-on-year in the first half of 2025, according to data from Tranio, a real estate firm. This significant increase marks a shift in investment trends and public attitudes amid rising uncertainty at home.

    The US ranked ninth among sought-after destinations for Russian property investment, accounting for 3.6% of overall demand by June. Analysts attribute the uptick to growing interest in diversifying assets and hedging against economic and geopolitical risks.

    Thailand remained the top destination for Russian buyers abroad for the second consecutive year, but Russians are increasingly looking elsewhere. While they make up less than 1% of all foreign US real estate buyers, they spend more on average, with $652,915 per property compared to the overall foreign average of $480,695.

    Florida remains a top choice, particularly in Sunny Isles Beach, known as "Little Moscow" for its large Russian-speaking population. Other popular states include Georgia, New York, California, and Illinois. Motivations vary: 18.3% seek permanent relocation, 14.4% aim for residency or citizenship, and about one-third buy homes for vacation use or rental income.

    This trend coincides with shifting public opinion in Russia towards the US. A May survey by the Levada Center found that only 40% of Russians view the US as "most hostile" toward Russia, down from 76% a year earlier. For the first time in 13 years, a majority did not identify the US as Russia's main adversary.