Forbes confirms: Madrid remains the world’s No.1 city to invest in luxury real estate according to BARNES (2026)

On March 12, 2026, Forbes Spain (via Europa Press) reported that Madrid once again ranks first, for the second consecutive year, as the most attractive city in the world for ultra-high-net-worth investors in luxury real estate, ahead of Milan, Dubai and Miami.

According to the article, this leadership is based on a balance highly valued by international capital: profitability, lifestyle and legal security. This combination positions Madrid as the European gateway for investors from Latin America, the United States, the Middle East and across Europe.

Madrid, a “core” capital for international investors

The Forbes article highlights that Madrid’s prime real estate market is undergoing a structural shift: luxury is no longer determined solely by financial criteria, but by a combination of solid investment and quality of life.

In practice, this translates into stable demand for properties with clear attributes: natural light, higher floors, usable terraces, representative buildings and turnkey renovations in districts such as Salamanca, Chamberí, Chamartín and Jerónimos.

Prime prices: Salamanca close to €19,000/m²

The report notes that price trends continue to rise in the most exclusive locations, reaching levels close to €19,000 per square metre in areas such as the Salamanca district.

For investors, this reinforces an essential idea: in micro-markets where supply is limited, prices remain strong when the asset is exceptional and demand is global.

Report data: BARNES network and 2025 growth

The article states that the report is based on the analysis of more than 25,000 international clients and partners within the BARNES network.

It also highlights that BARNES revenue increased by 40% in 2025, reflecting the strong momentum of the prime real estate segment in major global cities.

Spain strengthens its position: Marbella, Mallorca and Barcelona

The report also highlights Spain’s growing position as a premium destination in the global luxury real estate landscape:

• Marbella enters the global Top 5 after ranking 35th the previous year, driven by younger buyers (millennials and Gen Z) who accounted for 50% of transactions above €3 million.
• Mallorca enters directly at number 15, described as an “island for all seasons” thanks to controlled development, strong connectivity and a balance between privacy and services.
• Barcelona ranks 23rd, with prices described in the report as “reasonable” and strong appeal thanks to its climate, quality of life and architecture.

The conclusion is clear: Spain is no longer only a holiday destination but has established itself as a country for prime residence and international wealth preservation.

What this means if you are considering investing in Madrid

If your goal is to invest securely, the practical takeaway from the article is that Madrid functions as a “core” market when you purchase with the right criteria.

In simple terms:

• Micro-location matters: street, specific section, orientation and floor level.
• The building matters: technical inspection (ITE), condition of the community, accessibility, concierge and parking if available.
• The renovation must be verifiable: installations, insulation, carpentry and energy efficiency.
• Liquidity depends on the right attributes: terrace, natural light, logical layout and impeccable documentation.

Buy your new residence

Apartment in Madrid - 300 m² - 4 bedrooms
Ref. 85605367
4 950 000 €

Apartment in Retiro - 150 m² - 3 bedrooms
Ref. 86395682
1 560 000 €

How BARNES Madrid can assist you

At BARNES Madrid, we support you with a methodology designed to protect your capital: on-market and off-market selection, street-level valuation, technical and legal due diligence, and negotiation strategy through to the notary signing.

If you would like to explore opportunities in Salamanca, Chamberí, Chamartín or Jerónimos–Retiro, we would be delighted to prepare a proposal aligned with your investment objectives.

We welcome you at Velázquez 15 (Salamanca district). BARNES Madrid.