Private Islands Market Updates and Trends

Private Islands Market Updates and Trends

Estimated reading time: 8 minutes

Private islands are a niche market that appeals to a select group of buyers who value privacy, exclusivity and nature. They are also a form of alternative investment that can offer long-term capital appreciation and income potential. However, buying or selling a private island is not a simple transaction. It involves many factors such as location, accessibility, infrastructure, legal status, environmental impact and market demand.

In this article, we will provide an overview of the current state and future outlook of the private Island market, based on an analysis of some recent reports and articles on the subject. We will also highlight some of the key trends and challenges that will shape this market in 2023.

The State of the Private Islands Market in 2023

According to the report by Elite Traveler, the market has been experiencing a surge in demand and activity since 2020, driven by the Covid-19 pandemic and its aftermath. The report states that “the pandemic has accelerated existing trends in the private island market, such as the desire for privacy, security and sustainability, as well as the increased use of technology and remote working“.

The report also notes that the supply of private islands for sale is limited and varies by region. The most popular regions for private island buyers are the Caribbean, Central America, Canada and Europe, while the least popular are Africa, Asia and Australia. The average price range for private islands is very wide, from USD 50,000 to USD 120 million. In Canada and Central America, where the island market is particularly developed, you can find islands priced up to USD 300,000 at any time.

Private islands market
Photo is illustrative – Location – Cauayan Island Resort, El Nido, Palawan, Philippines

More about private islands prices: The cheapest and the most expensive items

According to the open-to-see data of Private Islands Inc., the average price of a private island worldwide is around USD 6 million, but prices can vary greatly depending on location and size. Here are some price ranges for different regions. We claimed names of the cheapest private island for sale and the most expensive as well.:

  • All regions: from USD 33,000.00 (Beachfront Lot on Long Caye, Belize) to USD 160,000,000.00 (110.00 Acres, Rangyai Island, Thailand)
  • Caribbean: from USD 399,000.00 (2 acres, Salt Cay Parcels, Turks and Caicos) to USD 46,000,000.00 (554.00 acres Darby Island, The Exumas, Bahamas)
  • Europe: from  £ 230,000 (Pound Sterling) (=  USD 283 333,55) (4 acres Mannions Island, Ireland, Europe) to USD 16,733,601.07 (300 acres St. Thomas, Greece)
  • Asia: from USD 650,000.00 (57.79 acres Kabo Island Philippines) to USD 160,000,000.00 (110.00 Acres, Rangyai Island, Thailand). Read more about the private Island market in the Philippines.
  • USA: USD 169,900.00 (2.00 acres, Spuhn Island Lots Alaska) to USD 95,000,000.00 (Pumpkin Key, Florida). Read more about the Alaskan islands.
  • Canada: from USD 68,104.43 (11,60 acres Big Tancook Island, Nova Scotia) to USD 7,895,000.00 (5, 35 acres Woodmere Island, Muskoka, Ontario)
  • Central America: from USD 33,000.00 (0,17 acres, Beachfront Lot on Long Caye, Belize) to USD 100,000,000.00 (38 acres Long Coco Caye, Belize )
  • South America: from USD 650,000.00 (2,47 acres Ilha de Itaoquinha, Brazil) to  USD 35,000,000.00 (108726.00 Acres Private Island in Chilean Patagonia, Chile)
  • South Pacific: from USD 300,000.00 (1-acre Lomanisue Bay Freehold One-Acre Lots, Fiji) to USD 18,500,000.00 (15 acres, Pumpkin Island, Australia)
  • Africa: from USD 2,500,000.00 (149 acres, Nsonga Island, Uganda) to USD 4,462,293.62 (950 acres Valiha Island, Madagascar )

A number of islands sold: It is difficult to find exact data on the number of sold assets each year, but according to Private Islands Inc., the market for private islands is strong and growing. In recent years, the company has seen an increase in inquiries and sales, particularly from high-net-worth individuals.

Find Islands catalogue

On our website, we have a catalogue of islands for sale from different regions, with information about their area, price, description, photos and location on the map. For example, the Vatuvara Islands, Tuvana Islands and others.

The report also identifies some of the emerging trends in the private island market, such as:

  • The rise of eco-friendly and self-sufficient islands that use renewable energy sources, organic farming and water conservation systems.
  • The demand for turn-key islands that have existing infrastructure and amenities, such as houses, docks, airstrips and internet access.
  • The interest in fractional ownership and rental options allows buyers to share the cost and use of an island with other investors or guests.
  • The preference for islands that are close to mainland services and attractions, such as airports, hospitals, restaurants and golf courses.
private island
Photo is illustrative – Location – San Blas, Panama

Factors that influence the value and attractiveness of the island

The Newest Trends in the Private Island Sales Market article by Black Platinum Gold confirms some of these trends and adds some more insights into the factors that influence the value and attractiveness of a private island. The article states that “the most important factors are location, size, infrastructure, development potential and legal status“. It also explains that:

  • Location determines the climate, scenery, accessibility and security of an island. Islands in tropical or temperate regions are more desirable than those in polar or arid regions. Islands that are near or within protected areas or UNESCO sites are also more valuable.
  • Size affects the usability and maintenance costs of an island. Larger islands offer more space and privacy but also require more resources and staff to manage. Smaller islands are easier to maintain but may have limited development potential or carrying capacity.
  • Infrastructure refers to the existing buildings, utilities and transportation facilities on an island. Islands that have houses, water supply, electricity, internet, docks or airstrips are more convenient and comfortable than those that are undeveloped or require renovation.
  • Development potential relates to the possibility and feasibility of adding new structures or amenities to an island. Islands that have permits or approvals for construction or expansion are more attractive than those that face legal or environmental restrictions or challenges.
  • Legal status involves the ownership rights and obligations of an island. Islands that have clear title deeds, low taxes and favourable regulations are more appealing than those that have disputes
island and yacht
Photo is illustrative – Location – Santorini, Santorín, Grécko

In conclusion, the private islands market is a unique and exclusive niche that has experienced a surge in demand and activity since the Covid-19 pandemic. As people seek privacy, security, and sustainability, private islands offer an opportunity for alternative investment that can provide long-term capital appreciation and income potential. However, buying or selling a private island requires careful consideration of various factors such as location, accessibility, infrastructure, legal status, environmental impact, and market demand.

The emerging trends in the private islands market include eco-friendly and self-sufficient islands, turn-key islands with existing infrastructure and amenities, fractional ownership and rental options, and islands that are close to mainland services and attractions. Moreover, the most important factors that influence the value and attractiveness of a private island are location, size, infrastructure, development potential, and legal status.

You might find it interesting as well: Main Reasons to Buy an Island

islands for sale
Photo is illustrative – Location – Praia Brava, Itajaí – State of Santa Catarina, Brazil

F.A.Q.s

What is the private islands market?

The private islands market is a niche market that deals with the buying and selling of exclusive private islands as real estate assets.

Why are private islands so popular among the wealthy?

Private islands offer unparalleled privacy, seclusion, and exclusivity. They also provide complete control over the environment and surroundings, making them highly sought after by wealthy individuals.

Which regions are the most popular for private islands?

The Caribbean, the South Pacific, and Southeast Asia are some of the most popular regions.

Which regions are the most popular for private islands?

The Caribbean, the South Pacific, and Southeast Asia are some of the most popular regions.

Which regions are the most popular for private islands?

The Caribbean, the South Pacific, and Southeast Asia are some of the most popular regions.

What factors are influencing private island prices in 2023?

The impact of COVID-19, the rise of cryptocurrency, and increasing environmental concerns are currently influencing private island prices in 2023.

Why has the demand for private islands increased due to COVID-19?

COVID-19 has caused a shift in the way people live and work, with many individuals looking for more seclusion and privacy. As a result, the demand for private islands has increased.

What types of private islands are in high demand?

Private islands that are environmentally sustainable and eco-friendly are now in high demand and are commanding premium prices.

Read also: Private Islands for sale in Africa, the Cradle of Civilization