Top 5 U.S. Home Sales of May: What They Mean for the Luxury Market
The luxury market is not slowing down—and May’s top home sales prove it. Despite rising costs in areas like Southern California and Florida, ultra-luxury buyers are still writing checks with lots of zeros and very few conditions.
According to Redfin, the most expensive residential sale in the country last month was a Beverly Hills estate that closed for a jaw-dropping $110 million. All five of the top sales were over $48 million—and every single one was in either Southern California or Florida. Yes, even with climate risk and insurance premiums climbing fast, the demand for high-end coastal property is stronger than ever. Buyers in this price range are unfazed. They’re chasing lifestyle, prestige, and prime locations.
Let’s take a look at the top 5 home sales of May 2025 and what made them stand out:
1. 630 Nimes Rd., Los Angeles, CA — $110 Million
This estate is everything you expect from a $100M+ property—and more. Set in the exclusive Bel Air neighborhood, the home spans over 30,000 square feet with panoramic city-to-ocean views. Think: marble everything, a resort-style pool, a private theater, and grounds that rival luxury hotels. It's glamorous, private, and positioned in one of the most desirable zip codes in the world.
2. 391 N. Carolwood Dr., Los Angeles, CA — $57.3 Million
Located in the iconic Holmby Hills, this sale feels like old Hollywood meets modern mega-mansion. The property combines architectural pedigree with modern amenities. Carolwood is one of LA’s most prestigious streets, and homes here don’t trade hands often—making this sale even more notable.
3. 1140 S. Ocean Blvd., Manalapan, FL — $55 Million
Oceanfront in Manalapan means you're part of one of the most elite coastal enclaves in Florida. This home sits between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway with over 1,000 feet of water frontage. It’s practically its own private resort—complete with a guesthouse, wellness wing, and lush tropical landscaping.
4. 12032 E. End, North Palm Beach, FL — $55 Million
This custom-built waterfront estate in North Palm is sleek, modern, and outfitted with every luxury imaginable. Indoor-outdoor living, a show-stopping pool, and panoramic views of the Intracoastal make it feel like your own slice of paradise. This sale highlights how buyers continue to pay a premium for move-in-ready luxury in Florida.
5. 1519 N. Ocean Way, Palm Beach, FL — $48.5 Million
Palm Beach continues to attract top-tier buyers—and for good reason. This classic estate sold just under $50 million and offers direct beach access, timeless architecture, and the kind of address that speaks for itself. Even with increased carrying costs in Florida, demand in Palm Beach remains elite and competitive.
These sales are more than just big numbers—they’re a reminder that luxury real estate is its own world, driven by exclusivity, location, and lifestyle. While the broader market may be navigating interest rates and inventory, ultra-high-net-worth buyers are still chasing the best of the best—and willing to pay top dollar for it.
Whether you're dreaming about Beverly Hills, Palm Beach, or just curious about what's happening at the very top of the market, one thing is clear: luxury real estate is alive and thriving.
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Karli Pritchard
Luxury Realtor | Knoxville, TN
Realty Executives Associates