When we think of serious wealth, it’s usually cities like Beverly Hills or Manhattan. But many of the ultra-rich are choosing corners of the world that go unnoticed. These are places without red carpets or tourist traps, and of course, zero paparazzi.
These towns offer privacy, perks, and just the right amount of polish. Here’s a closer look at towns where the ultra-wealthy live large without making a scene.
Amelia Island, Florida
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On most days, Amelia Island offers a coastal ambiance. This place doesn’t scream wealth, but every March, it hosts one of the world’s most elite vintage car auctions for collectors. The Amelia Auction, hosted by Gooding & Company, features classic vehicles that are hard to find. It draws collectors who land, bid, spend seven figures, and vanish just as fast.
Saratoga Springs, New York
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At first glance, Saratoga feels like a charming town with Victorian homes and leafy streets. Still, it’s the epicenter of luxury horse racing and draws a high-stakes crowd in August. The Fasig-Tipton has all the future champions go for millions, and the stands are filled with a who’s who of the racing elite.
Monticello, New York
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This place isn’t your average country club scene. Monticello Motor Club offers something with more horsepower. Wealthy members join for access to a professional-grade racetrack where they push Ferraris, Porsches, and McLarens to the limit. There’s a clubhouse, trackside villas, and even on-site mechanics. It’s the luxury of exclusivity with much louder engines.
Alpine, New Jersey
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You wouldn’t guess it while driving through Alpine, but it is one of America’s wealthiest zip codes. Behind the hedges are mega mansions, gates, and a whole lot of security. Many are owned by celebrities and executives. It’s close enough to Manhattan for convenience but far enough for peace.
Aalsmeer, Netherlands
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Aside from its flowers, Aalsmeer is also known as the place where billionaires go yacht shopping. This Dutch town is home to De Vries Scheepsbouw, one of the elite shipyards behind Feadship. The mega-rich come here to build floating palaces, complete with helipads, underwater lounges, and climate-controlled wine cellars.
Sun Valley, Idaho
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Sure, it’s a ski town, but Sun Valley is a secluded retreat for billionaires who crave space and scenery. Celebs and tech moguls buy ranches and second homes here, drawn in by the remote feel and upscale amenities, without Aspen’s spotlight. Think of it as luxury unplugged.
The Hamptons, New York
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Everyone knows The Hamptons, but not everyone knows where to hide in The Hamptons. But what we’re talking about here is the off-the-grid famous. Areas like Sagaponack and Water Mill offer sprawling estates behind hedgerows and security gates. Behind the manicured hedge, there’s likely a chef, a lap pool, and someone who really, really doesn’t want to be seen or disturbed.
Lake Tahoe, Nevada
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The Nevada side of Tahoe offers another big perk: no state income tax. The ultra-wealthy take advantage of both the stunning lakefront and the financial benefits. Add in private docks, ski lifts, and gated states, and it’s financially smart too. It’s a lifestyle that blends nature with smart money moves.
Fisher Island, Florida
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Fisher Island is the true picture of seclusion because the only way to get there is by boat or invitation. This exclusive enclave just off Miami is completely self-contained. Residents enjoy beaches, a golf course, and zero public access. The median income here is well over $2 million.
Ronkonkoma, New York
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Blink and you’ll miss it, or so it seems. Most people zip through Ronkonkoma without a second glance, but it’s a hidden hotspot for high-flyers with private jets. International Jet Interiors turns aircraft into the perfect example of flying luxury, with interiors that look more like hotel suites than cockpits. Rich clients pick fabrics, furniture, and even full cinemas.
Aspen, Colorado
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Skiing is just the start in Aspen. What really draws the elite is its balance of small-town charm and luxury living. Exclusive events, private chefs, and art auctions occur off the slopes. Many homeowners keep chalets here just for the winter season, and the town’s size keeps it intimate.
Greenwich, Connecticut
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Greenwich is classic and deeply connected to Wall Street. Financiers go here to stretch out. Estates here come with tennis courts, personal staff, and breathing room. It’s a favorite for hedge fund managers who want luxury near Manhattan, without ever stepping into it.
Neenah, Wisconsin
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Under the surface, Neenah is filled with old-school luxury. Motion Products, Inc. restores classic Ferraris, Jaguars, and Maseratis for clients worldwide. These cars compete at concours shows in Monaco and Pebble Beach. The super-rich are obsessed with this niche, and it’s all happening in small-town Wisconsin.
Woodside, California
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Woodside is where Silicon Valley money settles in. The vibe includes horses, hillside estates, and Tesla chargers next to stables. It’s understated on the outside, but it’s a different story behind the gates. It’s all about $100 million homes with tech-free living rooms.
Ketchum, Idaho
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Just down the road from Sun Valley, Ketchum is even more under the radar, which is exactly why the rich like it. It’s more low-key, but still has world-class skiing, outdoor adventure, and the famous Allen & Co. summit every summer. Real estate prices have skyrocketed, but the views still make it worth it.
