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Inside America's most expensive mansions ever sold
The priciest properties in US history
By Jen Grimble · July 31, 2024
Originally published on lovePROPERTY
The costliest mansions in the United States
When it comes to house-hunting wishlists, the average buyer might want a spacious backyard, a large kitchen and a spare bedroom for visiting guests, but the world's 1% can afford to be a little fussier with their demands.
With nine-figure price tags, jaw-dropping interior design and an array of opulent extras, these extravagant estates are some of the most expensive properties America has ever seen. Click or scroll on to feast your eyes on these seriously mind-blowing mega-mansions...
* Price and listing status accurate at the time of publishing.
Beverly Hills estate, Los Angeles, California: $65 million (£52m)
This spectacular spread can be found in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, and has belonged to billionaire casino tycoon Steve Wynn since 2015.
In January 2021, the property hit the market for $110 million (£88m). Strangely, after failing to find a suitable buyer, the price was inexplicably hiked up to $125 million (£100m), according to Realtor, making the prominent estate one of California's most expensive house listings to date.
Since then, the price has taken a series of cuts, listing for a much lower but still significant $65 million (£52m) in March 2024.
Beverly Hills estate, Los Angeles, California: $65 million (£52m)
The three-storey property now boasts 27,150 square feet of interior space, which includes 11 bedrooms and 16 bathrooms.
Roger Thomas undertook the home's eclectic interior design: vibrant furnishings meet high-end architectural elements, resulting in dramatic living areas with five-star hotel vibes. There's a bar room, a movie theatre, a wine cellar, a gym, an office and an elevator.
Beverly Hills estate, Los Angeles, California: $65 million (£52m)
The property sits on almost three acres of land and outside there's a guesthouse, a swimming pool and a tennis court. Numerous terraces decorate the back of the house – including this one with a velvet seating area and leather-clad firepit – allowing for priceless views over Downtown Los Angeles.
Additionally, the estate offers three staff suites and two apartments for the owner's security team.
Beverly Hills estate, Los Angeles, California: $65 million (£52m)
Did we mention the house was listed complete with its own art gallery? Built for high-fliers, we imagine some multi-million dollar business deals have been done in this amazing office. Although, staying focused may be difficult with that view!
Beverly Hills estate, Los Angeles, California: $65 million (£52m)
Wynn reportedly bought the pad from Guess jeans co-founder Maurice Marciano for a snip under $48 million (£38m) in 2015 and has expanded the home dramatically during his ownership.
The casino mogul added about 8,000 square feet to the colossal compound while transforming the living spaces into contemporary works of art.
The Bella Vista Estate, Summerland, California: $70 million (£56m)
This magnificent oceanfront ranch near Montecito, California is a high-end, horse lover's dream. Boasting 12 bedrooms and a staggering 25 bathrooms, the 27,000-square-foot home stands on almost 20 acres of perfectly manicured grounds and overlooks Loon Point Beach and the Santa Ynez Mountains.
On the market in February 2024 for $70 million (£56m), the home's main attraction is this incredible 10-acre polo field.
The Bella Vista Estate, Summerland, California: $70 million (£56m)
Although built in 2005, the palatial home combines Neoclassical grandeur with the elegance of 18th-century Italian and French interiors.
This sophisticated dining room overlooks the polo field and brings the landscape inside, thanks to the double French windows, skylight, floral ceiling fresco and a muted green colour scheme. Elsewhere, the home has additional living and dining rooms, a family room and a gourmet kitchen.
The Bella Vista Estate, Summerland, California: $70 million (£56m)
The home is richly decorated throughout, as we can see from this incredible office. The shelves groan with medals and trophies – presumably won in polo matches – while the large French windows flood the room with warmth and light, and prevent the rich wood panelling from becoming oppressive.
While the office would be the perfect place to close a deal, the 5,000-bottle drinks cellar and tasting room would be the ideal spot to celebrate it.
The Bella Vista Estate, Summerland, California: $70 million (£56m)
The owner will be able to throw some spectacular post-match parties in this 200-person ballroom. There are plenty of other options to entertain guests, too, including a 20-seat movie theatre, gym, spa, beauty salon and sports bar.
A separate guest wing, two further guest houses, a pool house and a polo clubhouse ensure there's plenty of space for visitors.
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The Bella Vista Estate, Summerland, California: $70 million (£56m)
The terrace and Olympic-length infinity pool overlook the polo field, meaning the owner won't have to choose between perfecting their tan and keeping an eye on the game playing out below.
Opulent extras include a helicopter hangar, a 32-car auto 'gallery', a 330-yard driving range, a putting green, a sand trap, a waterfall and even historic Monarch butterfly habitats.
We wonder if Prince Harry – a keen polo player who lives just 10 minutes away – has ever enjoyed a visit to this impressive estate.
The Flicker Estate, West Hollywood, California: $72.5 million (£58m)
This glitzy estate is tucked away in the highly desirable Bird Streets area of Beverly Hills, so-called thanks to street names such as Skylark Lane, Oriole Drive and Blue Jay Way.
The nine-bedroom, 14-bathroom home boasts almost 500 feet of frontage, giving amazing views of the glittering lights of Los Angeles below. We think that more than justifies the most recent price tag of $72.5 million (£58m).
The Flicker Estate, West Hollywood, California: $72.5 million (£58m)
Upon entry, visitors are greeted by a spectacular golden chandelier and breathtaking views through a floor-to-ceiling wall of glass. Beyond, this Italian Arclinea-designed kitchen has an eye-catching floating herb garden, as well as indoor and outdoor dining areas.
The whole home is designed around indoor-outdoor living, with almost every room opening out onto an expansive deck.
The Flicker Estate, West Hollywood, California: $72.5 million (£58m)
The master bedroom suite boasts an adjoining reading room, plus a private 1,500-square-foot balcony with its own Jacuzzi and several firepits.
The ensuite spa-quality bathroom is decked out in titanium polished travertine and boasts twin side-by-side bath tubs, positioned so you can take in views of the city while enjoying a long, hot soak.
The Flicker Estate, West Hollywood, California: $72.5 million (£58m)
This capacious space – larger than most apartments – is the 'his and hers' closet and dressing room that adjoins the luxurious bathroom.
Elsewhere, there's a serene home office, theatre-quality screening room, fitness centre, panic room, meditation room and even your very own shoeshine area.
The Flicker Estate, West Hollywood, California: $72.5 million (£58m)
In addition to the numerous terraces, the outside areas are no less impressive than the luxurious interior. If the 100-foot-long infinity pool, 30-person Jacuzzi spa, 18-foot sunken firepit and multiple seating areas aren't enough to keep you and your guests entertained, this floating white sand volleyball court surely will.
Beachfront estate, Naples, Florida: $88 million (£70m)
Built in 2014, this serene estate sits on 175 feet of Naples Beach frontage with views over the Gulf of Mexico.
Most recently on the market for a cool $88 million (£70m), the six-bedroom home was designed by Stofft Cooney Architects and is described as a "modern masterpiece" by listing agent William Raveis.
Beachfront estate, Naples, Florida: $88 million (£70m)
The interior has an ambience of calm thanks to the combination of pale wood and marble used throughout. The soothing tones echo the colours of the beach beyond, which is visible through the floor-to-ceiling windows that wash each room in Florida sunshine.
Elsewhere, there's a kitchen-diner with a breakfast bar, a formal dining room and two additional living areas.
Beachfront estate, Naples, Florida: $88 million (£70m)
The large master bedroom boasts wrap-around ocean views, while this slightly smaller – but no less impressive – guest room embraces the home's beachside spirit.
We particularly like the marble soaking tub that opens out into the bedroom to make the most of the home's natural light.
Beachfront estate, Naples, Florida: $88 million (£70m)
This second kitchen, with its built-in grill and wet bar, would be the perfect place to hang out after an ocean swim.
Unsurprisingly, the main industry in this part of the Sunshine State is tourism. Thanks to its beautiful beaches, warm summer weather and proximity to the Everglades, holidaymakers and second home-owners alike flock to Naples.
Beachfront estate, Naples, Florida: $88 million (£70m)
However, if the owner prefers to avoid the crowds, the estate's two swimming pools, spa, large immaculate lawn and steps down to the white sand beach provide more than enough to enjoy at home.
Gated compound, Beverly Hills, California: $88 million (£70m)
Hidden at the end of a long, gated driveway high up among the canyons of Beverly Hills, this 20-acre compound has to be one of the most perfectly positioned homes in Los Angeles.
Most recently listed for $88 million (£70m), the 25,000-square-foot home features seven bedrooms, 13 bathrooms and an additional three ensuite bedrooms for staff. Let's take a look around...
Gated compound, Beverly Hills, California: $88 million (£70m)
This elegant living space has twin stone fireplaces and more than enough room to host an elegant reception. Neutrally decorated throughout, the seemingly endless white walls are perfect for "showcasing world-class art collections", as the listing boasts.
However, if you simply want to kick back and relax there is also a breakfast room, a library and two family rooms – one of which doubles as a screening room – this is LA after all!
Gated compound, Beverly Hills, California: $88 million (£70m)
This sophisticated formal dining room opens out onto one of many terraces and balconies that surround the house.
Elsewhere in the sprawling pad, there's a drinks cellar, gym, games room, elevator and a garage with space for 11 cars.
Gated compound, Beverly Hills, California: $88 million (£70m)
The serene master bedroom has a glass wall that opens onto a large, vine-covered balcony, but the pièce de résistance has to be this cavernous dressing room, with multiple built-in closets and seating areas.
It opens out into a sun-filled marble bathroom with a large shower and square soaking tub. If this home belonged to us, we'd take all day getting dressed.
Gated compound, Beverly Hills, California: $88 million (£70m)
Outside, this charming pool house boasts an outdoor kitchen and bar. Surrounded by a carefully tended lawn and landscaping, the mosaic-tiled pool is the ideal place to soak in the stunning canyon, city and ocean views. Elsewhere on the property, there's an orchard and a hidden tennis court.
The compound is conveniently close to the Beverly Hills Hotel, in the unlikely event the owner ever fancies a change of scene.
Willow Creek Estancia, Rancho Santa Fe, California: $98.5 million (£79m)
Just 30 minutes north of San Diego lies this breathtaking Rancho Santa Fe estate. Most recently listed for $98.5 million (£79m), the 77-acre ranch combines luxury living with an elegant equestrian lifestyle.
While the main residence has 'just' six bedrooms and seven bathrooms, there's additional guest and staff accommodation elsewhere on the estate and more than enough room for all your equine friends.
Willow Creek Estancia, Rancho Santa Fe, California: $98.5 million (£79m)
Built in 2008, this 15,000-square-foot home embodies a classic Santa Barbara style, channelling the architecture of Spain and the Mediterranean.
After motoring up a long gated driveway lined with flowering trees, visitors enter through this welcoming entryway, which features a series of archways, exposed timber beams and elegant ironwork.
Willow Creek Estancia, Rancho Santa Fe, California: $98.5 million (£79m)
The exposed beams continue throughout the property's multiple dining and sitting rooms, as well as a large office with a fireplace and its own separate entrance.
The lower level houses a drinks cellar, tasting room, billiards room and even space set aside for crafting projects. The master 'retreat' spans the entire first floor and includes an office, exercise room, large bathroom and twin walk-in closets in addition to the large bedroom, which has a fireplace and private balcony.
Willow Creek Estancia, Rancho Santa Fe, California: $98.5 million (£79m)
Of course, the main draw is the incredible equestrian facilities. The estancia is built around multiple paddocks and an enormous 27-stall barn, but there's also a seven-stall family barn close to the main house, which has a groom's apartment for when tacking up your steed sounds too much like hard work.
Elsewhere on the vast estate, you'll find riding trails, a grand prix field, six cowboy apartments, a manager's apartment, four office suites, a conference room, three sand arenas, two horse walkers and several tack rooms, as well as a dedicated space for your farrier to get to work.
Willow Creek Estancia, Rancho Santa Fe, California: $98.5 million (£79m)
Despite the obvious focus of the ranch, there's plenty for non-horsey types to do too. One of the detached guest houses adjoins a 'recreation pavilion', which houses a bowling alley, arcade, card tables and a workout room.
The owner and their guests can relax on the estate's multiple terraces and verandas, take a dip in the 20-foot lap pool, fish the bass-filled 15-acre private lake, meditate in the loggia or simply stroll the rose garden. Their only problem will be finding enough time to do it all – not a bad problem to have!
Mecox Bay compound, Water Mill, New York: $99.5 million (£80m)
Set on over 24 acres of prime Hamptons waterfront, the two mansions that stand inside Mecox Bay compound recently became available together for the first time ever – for a cool $99.5 million (£80m).
The two opulent homes have 24 bedrooms and 38 bathrooms between them, as well as all the luxury amenities you could imagine. Let's take a stroll around...
Mecox Bay compound, Water Mill, New York: $99.5 million (£80m)
This residence, which lies inland from its neighbour, covers 28,000 square feet and contains 11 bedrooms. It overlooks a heated swimming pool and acres of emerald green lawn, as well as a moated pool house, courtyard, firepit and numerous outdoor lounging and dining areas.
It was also available separately for a shade less than $55 million (£44m).
Mecox Bay compound, Water Mill, New York: $99.5 million (£80m)
As well as all the rooms you might expect, the sprawling mansion contains some surprising extras. In addition to an extraordinary 750-gallon shark tank, there's also a 14-seat movie theatre, basketball half court, bowling alley, professional-standard gym, drinks cellar, indoor pool, games room, wet bar, arcade and this relaxing spa with sauna and steam room.
Mecox Bay compound, Water Mill, New York: $99.5 million (£80m)
The second home stands on the shoreline and covers more than 17,000 square feet of the private peninsular.
With 13 bedrooms, 19 bathrooms, an eat-in kitchen with waterfront views, a breakfast room that seats 10, a formal dining room and additional staff quarters, there's no excuse not to invite the in-laws over for the holidays (unless, of course, they live in the mansion next door).
Mecox Bay compound, Water Mill, New York: $99.5 million (£80m)
This grand billiards room exemplifies the home's décor, with a neutral wall colour and a polished wood floor – not to mention the stunning views out over the bay.
Outside, the owner can enjoy a game of tennis on their private court, which has its very own tennis house. There's also a basketball court, gym, sauna, a pool and a pool house with a commercial kitchen. And if none of that floats your boat, the private dock certainly will.
For those who didn't fancy snapping up the waterfront gem without buying the whole compound, it was also on the market separately for $52.5 million (£42m).
Beverly Hills sanctuary, Los Angeles, California: $126 million (£101m)
Most recently on the market for $126 million (£101m), it's no surprise this exclusive 10-acre Beverly Hills estate is hidden at the end of a long gated drive and guarded by a sentry booth.
The hilltop sanctuary would meet the exacting standards of most billionaires, but – as we shall see – it'll most likely appeal to a high-end car-lover...
Beverly Hills sanctuary, Los Angeles, California: $126 million (£101m)
The three-storey, eight-bedroom, 20-bathroom residence enjoys city, canyon and mountain views from its multiple floor-to-ceiling windows.
Achingly modern, the main residence covers almost 21,700 square feet. Inside, the owner can while away their free time in their home theatre, one of their multiple offices, a variety of bars, a salon, a yoga room and a gourmet kitchen.
Beverly Hills sanctuary, Los Angeles, California: $126 million (£101m)
In addition, the 5,000-square-foot guest house has a cantilevered spa with an indoor/outdoor pool, so the building could easily be used as a private wellness centre if you don't mind your guests taking up one of your many bedrooms.
Beverly Hills sanctuary, Los Angeles, California: $126 million (£101m)
Outside, the amenities combine to give the property a resort-style ambience. There's a lap pool, a firepit and a flowing water feature, as well as plenty of sun terraces and seating areas.
This ornamental pool, with its towering sculptures, flowering trees and outdoor fireplace, perfectly captures the estate's modern yet serene atmosphere.
Beverly Hills sanctuary, Los Angeles, California: $126 million (£101m)
While this hilltop retreat has a plethora of enticing extras, the car garage has to be its crowning glory. Not only is there a spacious motor court with a fountain outside, but there's also a 3,166-square-foot car 'museum' in which you can showcase your entire supercar collection. Simply drive straight through the waterfall entry, park up and enjoy your car from every angle on this slick turntable. Even James Bond would be jealous!
The Manor, Los Angeles, California: $137.5 million (£110m)
In 2019, The Manor – formerly known as Spelling Manor – set a new real estate record when it sold for just shy of $120 million (£96m) the highest selling price ever in California at the time.
The property was off-loaded by owner Petra Ecclestone, the daughter of Formula One billionaire Bernie Ecclestone, who made a serious profit on her initial investment. She reportedly purchased the pad in 2011 for $85 million (£68m) and originally wanted $200 million (£160m) for the 123-room residence.
In February 2022, the iconic estate was back on the market for $165 million (£135m), before the price was cut to $137.5 million (£110m) in April 2024.
The Manor, Los Angeles, California: $137.5 million (£110m)
The 56,500-square-foot château can be found in the affluent Holmby Hills area of the city and was built in 1991 for TV producer Aaron Spelling – the man behind Dynasty, The Love Boat and Beverly Hills 90210. Yet it seems Ecclestone spent time – and money – updating the mansion during her ownership.
The home's contemporary interior now boasts a huge entrance foyer lined with black and white marble, as well as exquisite living rooms finished to the highest imaginable standards.
The Manor, Los Angeles, California: $137.5 million (£110m)
Of the home's 123 rooms, 14 are bedrooms and 27 are bathrooms. There's also a glamourous formal living room, a high-end projection room, a library, an office, a billiard room, a games room, a wine cellar and a gym.
The ultimate party pad, it's also equipped with staff quarters, a service wing and a catering kitchen, ideal for entertaining large groups of VIP guests.
The Manor, Los Angeles, California: $137.5 million (£110m)
The opulent estate is overflowing with jaw-dropping home features – there's a room dedicated to cutting flowers, a humidity-controlled room for storing silver and multiple gift-wrapping rooms, according to Architectural Digest.
Elsewhere you'll find a beauty salon, complete with a hairdresser's station, nail bar, massage rooms and a pedicure zone.
The Manor, Los Angeles, California: $137.5 million (£110m)
But, of course, that isn't even close to being all. The property even comes kitted out with a French wine and cheese room, while the luxurious two-lane bowling alley features its very own shoe closet.
Ecclestone also added a large aquarium to the study and a nightclub to the luxurious basement. If that wasn't enough, the home's five-acre grounds offer a tennis court, koi pond, citrus orchard, swimming pool, pool house and 100-vehicle motor court.
Casa Encantada, Los Angeles, California: $195 million (£156m)
Taking third place in the list of America's most expensive homes, Casa Encantada is one seriously sophisticated pad. The masterpiece was constructed in 1937 and landed on the real estate market in October 2019 for a cool $225 million (£180m).
In November 2023, the house was back on the market with Westside Estate Agency but took a price cut to a mere $195 million (£156m).
Casa Encantada, Los Angeles, California: $195 million (£156m)
Casa Encantada can be found on an eight-acre plot in the sought-after neighbourhood of Bel-Air, Los Angeles, and has had numerous high-profile owners over the years.
The estate is thought to have belonged to hotel magnate Conrad Hilton in the 1950s, as well as American billionaire businessman David Murdock and financier David Winnick, who bought the house in 2000 for $94 million (£75m).
According to Business Insider, the last two times the house was on the market, it was the highest-priced property in America.
Casa Encantada, Los Angeles, California: $195 million (£156m)
The Georgian-inspired mansion was designed by architect James Dolena and encompasses an H-shaped layout to provide city, ocean and garden views from all 60 of its luxurious rooms.
Located less than 10 minutes from Los Angeles' iconic Rodeo Drive, the property benefits from optimum privacy, surrounded by the fairways of the Bel Air Country Club golf course.
Casa Encantada, Los Angeles, California: $195 million (£156m)
The home's interior spans a staggering 40,000 square feet and each room is decked out with the finest fixtures and fittings, setting a new standard for billionaire home design.
At the time of its construction in the 1930s, British designer T. H. Robsjohn-Gibbings was called in to complete the interior flourishes, which reportedly cost over $2 million – or about $37.4 million (£29m) in today's money. In recent years, the interior has been lovingly restored, resulting in breathtaking living spaces.
Casa Encantada, Los Angeles, California: $195 million (£156m)
Casa Encantada comes complete with seven bedrooms, 20 bathrooms, a walnut-panelled library, a living room and a family room. There's also a garage with space for 15 cars, a guesthouse, a pool house and manager's quarters, as well as a basketball court, tennis court, greenhouses, a rose garden and numerous koi ponds.
Other key details include the home's entrance hall, which boasts an 18-foot ceiling and a bar made entirely from sterling silver.
The One Above All Else, Manhattan, New York: $195 million (£156m)
Towering 1,550 feet above New York City, Central Park Tower is the tallest residential building in the world. Perched on the very top is the penthouse – known as The One Above All Else.
Thanks to its position on top of the world, the dazzling, double-height apartment was listed in March 2024 for an eye-watering $195 million (£156m).
The One Above All Else, Manhattan, New York: $195 million (£156m)
The penthouse covers the top three floors of the vertiginous building and boasts seven bedrooms, a 1,500-foot grand salon and an almost 2,000-foot private ballroom, as well as this chic dining room with views to die for.
Elsewhere, there's an observatory, a library, a media room, a games room, a catering kitchen and a serving kitchen with an adjoining breakfast room. There's even space for a gym.
The One Above All Else, Manhattan, New York: $195 million (£156m)
With 360-degree views taking in Central Park, the Hudson and East Rivers and the entire New York City skyline, we're starting to think the price tag is justified.
Imagine drinking your morning coffee as you took in this view. We'd be tempted to stay in bed all day...
The One Above All Else, Manhattan, New York: $195 million (£156m)
The master suite has a pair of dressing rooms and two bathrooms. This tub is perfectly positioned to take in the exclusive view of Central Park.
In addition to the five main bedrooms, there are a further two staff bedrooms, which could also be used by guests.
The One Above All Else, Manhattan, New York: $195 million (£156m)
This Central Park facing terrace is the highest on the planet, according to the listing. Spanning 1,433 square feet, it would be the perfect space to host a showstopping summer soiree.
The tower is home to the Central Park Club, which gives its members exclusive access to the 60-foot-long rooftop pool and cabana, not to mention a private park, wellness centre, multiple lounges, screening room and the highest private restaurant ever built in New York.
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