15 Places Where The Rich Settle

Have you ever dreamed of becoming neighbors with someone like Rihanna, Drake, or Kim Kardashian, or even Hollywood stars like Tom Hanks? Where do all these people settle once they make it to the one percent club, and how much does it cost to share the air with them? Well, you've come to the right place, Alex, because we're about to answer these very questions. So grab a drink, and let's dive in! Here are 15 of the most exclusive places the rich choose to settle in. Welcome to a lux!

First up, we've got Hidden Hills, California. Hidden Hills, California, is a prestigious upscale gated community located in Los Angeles County. This area is known for its quiet, serene environment, privacy, and security, with around 2,000 residents living in its luxurious homes. The community is designed for a luxurious lifestyle, with lavish houses, sprawling estates, and equestrian facilities. This community is reserved for the three presenters, offering facilities such as a community center, three riding arenas, a competition-sized swimming pool, and tennis courts.

Over the years, Hidden Hills has attracted a number of celebrities due to its privacy and luxury. High-profile residents have included notable names such as Kim Kardashian, Kanye West, Drake, The Weeknd, Jessica Simpson, and Miley Cyrus, among others. Given its exclusivity and the grandeur of its properties, homes in Hidden Hills—well, they don't come cheap. Prices for houses in this area typically range from around $5 million for some of the smaller, older properties to well over $39 million for larger, newer, or more extravagant homes. It might sound like a lot, but you know the saying: you get what you pay for.

Tuxedo Park, New York. Tuxedo Park is a unique gated community spanning 2,600 acres, and it's situated a 45-minute drive from Midtown Manhattan, nestled within the serene beauty of the Ramapo Mountains. Unlike most gated communities, where the houses share a common design, in Tuxedo Park, each property possesses a distinct character. The assortment of architectural designs ranges from English Tudor and Dutch Colonial to French Chateau style and even Gothic Revival. Many of these homes are products of the Gilded Age and were crafted by notable architects like Bruce Price, Carrera and Hastings, and McKim, Mead, and White.

Tuxedo Park was established in the 1880s and is among the oldest gated communities in the U.S. It is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places. The community has long been associated with upper-class living, having been the home of Wall Street magnates, industry tycoons, and descendants of aristocratic colonial families in the early 20th century. The prices for a house here range between $500,000 for smaller properties to several million dollars for the most lavish estates. Its proximity to New York City provides convenient access to urban amenities, while its secluded gated nature ensures a level of privacy and tranquility that’s pretty hard to find in the vicinity of a major metropolis. A lot of rich people are willing to pay for that.

The Villages, Florida. The Villages is one of the largest age-restricted retirement communities in the U.S., encompassing three counties, three zip codes, and over 50,000 residences. The community is designed for active seniors and offers an unprecedented range of amenities, including golf courses, pools, recreation centers, and even its own hospital. Known for its high standard of living, The Villages operates like a small city, with its own shopping centers, banks, restaurants, and plenty of leisure activities. For this reason, in recent years, it's become a popular retirement destination for affluent seniors.

As far as prices go for residences in The Villages, well, they can vary greatly depending on location, size, and amenities. The prices go from around $100,000 for a smaller, older patio villa to well over one million dollars for larger, custom-designed homes with premium locations and views. Pricey, but some deserve this kind of retirement, and they are willing to pay for it.

Lake Como, Italy. Lake Como, which is located in the Lombardy region of Northern Italy, is renowned for its striking natural beauty—a magnificent blend of lake views and mountainous scenery, which has charmed and attracted the affluent from around the globe for centuries. As Italy's third-largest lake, it offers an assortment of spectacular villas, lush gardens, and quaint towns. The region offers a serene lifestyle away from bustling cities, with recreational activities such as boating, hiking, and biking readily available.

Lake Como's proximity to Milan, a global capital of fashion and design, provides convenient access to a cosmopolitan lifestyle while maintaining the tranquility of lakeside living. Over the years, numerous celebrities and high-net-worth individuals have been drawn to Lake Como's exquisite charm. For instance, Hollywood star George Clooney owns a villa in Laglio, a commune on the shores of Lake Como. Other notable residents and visitors include Richard Branson, Madonna, and Donatella Versace, contributing to the area's reputation as a playground for the rich and famous.

As for the cost of living, while property prices can vary greatly reflecting the wide range of homes available, on the lower end, smaller apartments and houses can start from around €500,000, while the most opulent villas and estates can reach into the tens or even hundreds of millions of euros, showcasing Lake Como as a destination that accommodates varying levels of luxury living.

Emirates Hills, Dubai, UAE. Emirates Hills in Dubai is one of the most exclusive residential areas in the Arabian Peninsula, known as the Beverly Hills of Dubai. The community was designed around the world-class 18-hole Montgomery Championship golf course. Emirates Hills has become a preferred residence for many high-net-worth individuals, including prominent business figures and celebrities. Some notable residents have included the Gupta family from India, known for their businesses in South Africa, and several other prominent businessmen from the Middle East, India, Pakistan, and Iran.

Property prices in Emirates Hills are among the highest in Dubai due to its exclusivity. The lowest-priced homes could cost around 15 million AED, which is around $4 million U.S., while the most luxurious properties, often with private pools, extensive grounds, and stunning views of the golf course or Dubai skyline, could fetch prices of AED 100 million or $27 million U.S. Dubai ain't cheap, but some are willing to go with the trend and live there—and really, who can blame them?

Sea Island, Georgia. Sea Island, Georgia, is a highly exclusive, luxurious, and private area known for its stunning natural beauty, world-class golf courses, and prestigious resorts. The small barrier island offers a serene, laid-back lifestyle with beautiful beaches, marshes, and maritime forests. The community is home to the renowned Sea Island Resort, which features several golf courses, a beach club, and other luxury amenities. Many wealthy and well-known individuals, including political figures and celebrities, own homes on Sea Island. The Bush family, the founders of Coca-Cola, and professional golfer Davis Love III are among those who have residences on the island.

The property prices on Sea Island can vary from around $1 million for a smaller property or condo to $20 million for a more beachfront property or estate. But the secure and serene atmosphere, coupled with high-end amenities and services, makes Sea Island a preferred destination for those who value privacy, luxury, and nature in equal measures.

Malibu County, California. Malibu County is a highly exclusive gated community situated along the Pacific Coast Highway, famous for its stunning oceanfront homes and gorgeous beaches. It's one of the original Malibu neighborhoods, known for offering a high degree of privacy, which is maintained with stringent security and restricted access. Residents of the community enjoy unparalleled access to the beach, offering a serene and idyllic setting that's just a short drive from the amenities of Los Angeles.

Many celebrities and wealthy individuals, including actors, musicians, and business moguls, have chosen to make Malibu Colony their home, including the likes of Tom Hanks, Jim Carrey, and Pamela Anderson. The cost of living in Malibu Colony varies greatly, reflecting the exclusivity and demand for this prime location. The most affordable properties in Malibu Colony, such as small homes or condos, might start around $2 million, but the price for the most opulent oceanfront estates can easily reach upwards of $50 million.

Beverly Park, Los Angeles. Beverly Park is nestled in the hills of Los Angeles, and it's a posh sanctuary of wealth and privacy, stretching over 250 acres. It's divided up into North Beverly Park and South Beverly Park, each sprinkled with opulent custom-designed mansions that exude exclusivity and extravagance. Beverly Park is a star-studded neighborhood, with a list of celebrity residents that reads like a Hollywood awards night guest list. Its roster has included the likes of Denzel Washington, Sylvester Stallone, Eddie Murphy, and Mark Wahlberg.

But it's not just the rich and famous from the entertainment industry that are drawn to this neighborhood; international tycoons, Wall Street executives, and members of foreign royalty have also been known to call Beverly Park home. The cost of living here mirrors its exclusivity, with the cheapest properties starting around $20 million, while the more grandiose estates can command prices well over the $100 million mark.

Spain. Think of La Zagaleta as a serene oasis of opulence, where privacy, security, and lavish amenities merge together. It's a haven for the super-rich that features bespoke villas, two private golf courses, an equestrian center, and even a helipad. Celebrities and wealthy tycoons, including former British Prime Minister David Cameron and Lord Alan Sugar, have reportedly stayed there. High-profile businessmen such as Hans Snook, the founder of Orange Mobile, and Ronda Rousey, a UFC fighter, are also known to have homes here.

Now, the price for this slice of paradise—while it is sky-high, as are the perched mansions themselves—ranges from around €3 million for a starter home in La Zagaleta, but the price tag for the more grandiose estates can catapult well into the €50 million range. Remember, these jaw-dropping numbers are just real estate, not even considering the cost of yearly community fees and maintenance. So, why do the rich flock to La Zagaleta? It's the irresistible mix of privacy, top-tier services, and the chance to live in a true lap of luxury—not to mention the status that comes with owning a property in one of the world's most exclusive postcodes, a cherry on top!

Star Island, Miami. Star Island is located in the shimmering Biscayne Bay in Miami, Florida, and it's a man-made slice of paradise. It’s an enclave of seclusion in a city known for its high-energy lifestyle, offering its residents a serene getaway while still being minutes away from Miami's vibrant city life. The exclusivity and location of Star Island have attracted a star-studded list of residents over the years. Celebrities such as Gloria Estefan, Rosie O'Donnell, and Shaquille O'Neal have called it home.

The famous couple Jennifer Lopez and Alex Rodriguez have also owned property here. Now, when it comes to the cost of living on Star Island, it's as sky-high as you might expect. Properties here are rarely available, and when they do hit the market, the prices range from around $20 million to over $65 million. So yeah, you can call Star Island the epitome of luxury living in Miami.

Conyers Farm, Greenwich. Conyers Farm in Greenwich, Connecticut, is an ultra-exclusive gated community spanning over 1,500 acres of lush green fields and serene woodlands. The estates are peppered with some of the most luxurious homes in the country. For those who can afford it, Conyers Farm offers an oasis of tranquility and privacy while still being conveniently located near New York City, making it a top choice for wealthy commuters. Many A-listers and affluent individuals have taken up residence in Conyers Farm. People like film director Ron Howard, who reportedly sold his property for a whopping $27.5 million, and businessmen and former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg.

Speaking of costs, properties in Conyers Farm certainly are not for the faint-hearted. Entry-level homes could set you back around $10 million, while the priciest estates go for well over $20 million. Conyers Farm is truly a place where you can live a secluded and opulent lifestyle away from prying eyes, but still close enough to the heartbeat of one of the world's most vibrant cities.

The Car Barn, Capitol Hill, Washington. The Car Barn in Capitol Hill, Washington, is a seriously classy joint that used to be a trolley station back in the day. It’s got history and style in equal measures, and it’s been converted into swanky condos right in the heart of the city, close to Eastern Market and steps away from Lincoln Park. It offers the perfect blend of urban convenience and community charm.

As for famous residents, while there isn't much public info since these folks value their privacy a lot, but we're talking about well-off businesspeople, lobbyists, and even a few politicians who need to be near the action. As for property prices, well, the least you can expect to pay for a condo in the Car Barn is around $400,000, but that price tag can shoot north of a cool million for the larger units. So, to sum it up, the appeal of the Car Barn is pretty clear. It's got that historical charm, a killer location, and a sense of exclusivity that is hard to beat. So, for the wealthy folks who can swing it, it's a pretty sweet place to call home.

The Oaks, Calabasas, California. The Oaks of Calabasas is among the prettiest double-gated communities in the U.S., nestled right in the Santa Monica Mountains. The Oaks is known for its stunning views, luxurious amenities, and impeccably manicured estates. It's just a stone's throw away from the hustle and bustle of Hollywood, making it an ideal residence for those who want a tranquil oasis that is still connected to the city. The Oaks has been the residence of pop star Britney Spears, reality TV personalities, the Kardashians, and actress Katie Holmes, among others.

Prices to snag a home in this illustrious community, though, while it varies greatly depending on size and location within the Oaks, could expect to pay at least $2 million for a property on the lower end, while the most luxurious sprawling estates can go for upwards of $30 million.

Sandy Lane Estate, Barbados. Sandy Lane Estate in Barbados is a tropical paradise with a sun-soaked beach and stunning turquoise waters. But it's not just about the breathtaking scenery; it's also about the luxury. Sandy Lane is all about the good life, featuring a world-renowned golf course, top-tier spa, and beachfront homes that are the very definition of luxury. Celebrities like Rihanna and Simon Cowell have been known to frequent the area, and high-profile businessmen, including Irish billionaire JP McManus, own a property there too.

As for the price of paradise, well, it varies. The cheapest properties in the Sandy Lane estate area can go for around $1.5 million, but if you’re aiming for the top-of-the-line Beechmont properties, they have been listed for as much as $25 million. So, why do the rich flock to Sandy Lane? It's a combination of incredible natural beauty, the promise of privacy and exclusivity, and the prestige that comes with owning a home in one of the world's most luxurious locations.

Manhattan, New York. Last on our list is Pomander Walk, a unique gem nestled in the heart of the bustling metropolis of Manhattan, New York. A secluded, private, and gated community, it’s well-known for its charming Tudor-style architecture and its historical significance. The cost of living here can vary greatly, with the smallest co-op units going for around $700,000, while the larger townhouses can fetch a multi-million dollar price tag, often in the range of $3 million to $5 million.

Built back in 1921, Pomander Walk provides an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life with its serene and tranquil atmosphere, making it an attractive living spot for those who appreciate the mix of an intimate neighborhood vibe and the conveniences of the city.

And with all this said, Alex, it's time to wrap up this video. These are the 15 most exclusive places where the rich settle. So now we're curious to ask you, if you were to choose one place from this list, which one would you pick? Drop your answer in the comments below. We're always curious to hear your thoughts. And with that, it's curtains on the video. If you found the information valuable, don't forget to return the favor by tipping us with a like and a share. As always, thanks for watching, Alexa! And if you'd like to learn some more, hey, why not check out this video next?