Buying a Second Home in LA? Here’s Where Wealthy Buyers Are Looking in 2025

For affluent buyers, a second home in Southern California isn’t just about having a getaway—it’s about combining prestige, privacy, and smart investment strategy. In 2025, the trends reflect a balancing act: choosing between city-adjacent luxury properties and lifestyle retreats in desert or mountain locales. Below is a look at where wealthy buyers are focusing—and what features they’re seeking.

Key Trends in the 2025 Second-Home Market

• Lifestyle-first decision making
  Many buyers now regard their second home as a sanctuary for work, wellness, and escape—not just a financial asset. The rise of remote and hybrid work has made dual-purpose homes more attractive. (See commentary on luxury second-home redefinition in 2025.)

• Smaller luxury units / pied-à-terres gaining ground
  Some buyers prefer lower-maintenance luxury condos, high-rise units, or smaller homes in prime locations—places they can lock up easily and visit as needed.

• Wellness, smart tech & sustainability
  Second homes are expected to deliver on high-end systems: energy efficiency, smart-home integration, air and water quality systems, and health-conscious design.

• Privacy, low carrying cost & ease of use
  Because these homes aren’t primary residences, buyers are cautious about property tax, insurance (particularly in fire zones), upkeep, and the hassle of managing a property from afar.
  

Where Wealthy Buyers Are Looking in 2025-2026

Palm Springs / Coachella Valley

• Ultra-luxury estates, desert modern architecture, and resort-style communities continue to draw second-home buyers.

• In 2024, luxury home price growth in Palm Springs remained steady.

• The area’s appeal is strong for buyers wanting a desert escape that remains relatively accessible from LA.

• Fractional-ownership models like Pacaso list Palm Springs among its most sought-after destinations for ease of ownership.

Big Bear / Lake Arrowhead (Mountain / Lake Retreats)

• Mountain homes remain popular for those seeking a cooler, nature-driven escape. Big Bear’s market shows a median sale price decline of ~8.3% year-over-year, with homes staying on the market longer—creating buying opportunities.

• Lake Arrowhead is showing signs of a cooling market as well, with increased inventory and longer selling times.

• Luxury lakefront and cabin-style homes in these areas often offer the quiet, scenic retreat many buyers desire.

Choosing Between Urban Luxury vs. Lifestyle Retreat

• Urban / Westside Luxury

  • Easier access and more frequent use

  • Higher carrying costs (insurance, property taxes, maintenance in dense areas)

  • Requires local staff or service support

  • Typically stronger market support and resale liquidity

  • Premium walkability, amenities, design and finishes

• Desert / Mountain / Retreat

  • More of a getaway / escape; less frequent use

  • Variable costs (fire risk, remote maintenance, weather exposure)

  • Often remote management needed

  • More niche, but unique appeal depending on location

  • Emphasis on nature, views, privacy, and outdoor spac

Final Thoughts

In 2025, wealthy second-home buyers are carefully selecting between high-end urban residences and serene escapes. Palm Springs continues to shine as a premier desert retreat, while mountain and lake areas like Big Bear and Lake Arrowhead offer scenic and lifestyle appeal. Meanwhile, the best luxury markets near LA still attract those wanting convenience without compromise. The winning properties will be those that combine smart technology, wellness-focused amenities, low-maintenance design, and location-driven appeal.

If you’re exploring a second home for yourself or a client, I’d be happy to help analyze options, compare investment risks, or generate custom listings that match your ideal lifestyle and goals.

Sources

• “The Future of Ultra-Luxury Real Estate in Palm Springs” — BSG Luxury Homes

• Palm Springs Real Estate Market trends & price growth

• Big Bear Lake median sale decline and housing market trends — Redfin

• Lake Arrowhead market cooling, higher inventory — Real estate market report

• Luxury second-home redefinition trends for 2025 — Pezzini Luxury Homes

• Pacaso listing of Palm Springs among hot second-home markets