A new nationwide housing analysis reveals that five of the top ten U.S. cities with the highest average mortgage balances are all located in the Sunshine State, reflecting Florida’s surging luxury market, strong inbound migration, and growing high-net-worth communities.
From Palm Beach County to private islands off the Gulf Coast, multimillion-dollar properties have become the new normal. Below, Lendworth USA breaks down the ten U.S. cities with the highest average mortgage balances right now — and why Florida has become the new capital of luxury lending.
1. Golden Oak, Florida
Just a few miles from Walt Disney World, Golden Oak tops the list as the priciest mortgage market in America.
Exclusive estates within Disney’s private residential enclave average mortgage balances of around $3.6 million, reflecting the community’s ultra-luxury status and limited housing supply.
Why it matters: Disney’s first-ever residential neighborhood continues to attract global buyers seeking privacy, brand prestige, and access to Orlando’s booming economy.
2. Gulf Stream, Florida
This historic seaside enclave in Palm Beach County blends old-Florida charm with modern luxury.
Homeowners in Gulf Stream carry average mortgages exceeding $3.2 million, driven by multimillion-dollar oceanfront estates and record-setting sales throughout 2025.
Market note: The area’s exclusivity and proximity to Delray Beach make it a magnet for executives and retirees seeking low-tax living.
3. Golden Beach, Florida
Located between Miami and Fort Lauderdale, Golden Beach has long been a haven for ultra-wealthy buyers.
Oceanfront mansions in the gated community support average mortgage balances of roughly $3 million, with limited inventory and direct beach access pushing values higher every quarter.
Buyer profile: International investors and entrepreneurs seeking private coastal homes within commuting distance of Miami.
4. Captiva Island, Florida
Known for its white-sand beaches and secluded atmosphere, Captiva Island is paradise with a price tag.
Homes here carry average mortgages above $2.6 million, driven by luxury second-home buyers and strong short-term rental income potential.
Trend alert: Cash buyers once dominated Captiva, but rising values have pushed more luxury borrowers to finance, contributing to higher mortgage balances overall.
5. Atlantis, Florida
Nestled in Palm Beach County, Atlantis combines country-club living with resort-style amenities.
Average mortgage balances hover around $2.58 million, making it one of the costliest small cities in Florida.
Why it’s unique: A golf-centric community surrounded by private lakes and gated estates, Atlantis attracts affluent retirees and professionals alike.
6. Montecito, California
California’s luxury enclaves still make a strong showing, led by Montecito, where average mortgage balances sit near $2.5 million.
The coastal town’s celebrity residents — from Oprah Winfrey to tech executives — keep demand for luxury properties exceptionally high.
7. Hidden Hills, California
A short drive from Los Angeles, Hidden Hills remains a sanctuary for entertainment industry elites.
Average mortgages approach $2.15 million, reflecting sky-high land values and massive custom estates.
Local insight: Limited supply and high privacy make this one of California’s most stable luxury micro-markets.
8. Atherton, California
Located in Silicon Valley, Atherton continues to hold its place among America’s priciest residential zones.
Average mortgage balances of $2.13 million are supported by tech wealth and a median home price north of $8 million.
Market driver: Despite economic slowdowns, elite tech professionals keep Atherton’s demand — and prices — resilient.
9. Hunts Point, Washington
Washington State also makes the list, with Hunts Point near Seattle boasting average mortgage balances of roughly $2 million.
This lakefront enclave offers luxury waterfront living for Microsoft and Amazon executives, keeping the area’s values robust.
10. Sagaponack, New York
In the Hamptons, Sagaponack remains one of the East Coast’s most prestigious communities.
Average mortgage balances approach $2 million, backed by record-setting property values and year-round demand from Manhattan’s elite.
Lendworth USA Insight
Florida’s dominance in 2025 underscores a broader trend: the migration of wealth from high-tax states to lifestyle-driven markets.
As luxury buyers relocate to no-income-tax jurisdictions with favorable lending conditions, mortgage balances rise alongside property valuations.
For lenders and investors, this shift highlights growing opportunities in high-equity, low-default regions — a key focus for Lendworth USA’s alternative mortgage and private credit strategies.