There’s something magical about ski towns in the winter—fresh powder, luxurious lodges, and cozy evenings by the fire. Shows like The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City have only added to the allure, showcasing breathtaking mansions with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking snow-capped peaks. But for the ultrawealthy, ski season is more than just a vacation—it’s a lifestyle choice, often marked by multimillion-dollar homes in the world’s most exclusive winter destinations.

From Park City’s trendy Main Street to Aspen’s celebrity playground, let’s explore the most opulent ski towns in America, where stunning homes and world-class slopes combine to create the ultimate winter wonderlands.

1. Telluride, CO

• Number of listings: 226

• Listings over $5 million: 87 (38.5%)

Telluride tops the list with nearly 40% of its home listings priced above $5 million. Surrounded by the highest concentration of 13,000- and 14,000-foot peaks in North America, Telluride Ski Resort boasts 2,000+ acres of pristine ski terrain and an average of 300 inches of snow per year. The town’s charm and exclusivity have attracted celebrities like Oprah Winfrey, Tom Cruise, and Jerry Seinfeld.

2. Aspen, CO

• Number of listings: 650

• Listings over $5 million: 240 (36.9%)

Aspen is synonymous with luxury, boasting four premier mountains—Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk—offering 5,500+ acres of skiable terrain. The real estate market remains one of the most competitive in the world, with ultramodern ski-in/ski-out homes and timeless mountain retreats setting record-breaking prices. Celebrity homeowners, including Kurt Russell, Goldie Hawn, and Kevin Costner, flock to Aspen for its natural beauty and top-tier amenities.

3. Teton Village, WY (Jackson Hole)

• Number of listings: 75

• Listings over $5 million: 25 (33.3%)

Teton Village, home to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, is known for its challenging expert-level terrain and receives an impressive 450 inches of snow annually. Beyond the slopes, the area offers upscale shopping, dining, and a community that attracts affluent buyers seeking a blend of rugged adventure and luxury living.

4. Big Sky, MT

• Number of listings: 353

• Listings over $5 million: 85 (24.1%)

Big Sky Resort is one of the largest in the U.S., with 5,850 acres of skiable terrain. Just outside Yellowstone National Park, Big Sky offers an unparalleled outdoor lifestyle year-round. Residents enjoy activities like golf, hiking, and mountain biking in addition to premier skiing.

5. Jackson, WY

• Number of listings: 331

• Listings over $5 million: 77 (23.3%)

Jackson’s appeal lies in its tax advantages—no state income tax and low property taxes—and its prime location near Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. The resort offers diverse runs across two mountains: Rendezvous and Après Vous. Jackson’s luxury market continues to thrive as high-net-worth individuals seek both privacy and outdoor adventure.

6. Park City, UT

• Number of listings: 1,746

• Listings over $5 million: 331 (18.9%)

Famous for hosting the Sundance Film Festival, Park City is a dynamic ski destination with over 7,300 acres of terrain—the largest ski resort in the U.S. Main Street offers trendy restaurants, boutiques, and galleries, making it a favorite among celebrities and luxury buyers.

7. Vail, CO

• Number of listings: 461

• Listings over $5 million: 78 (16.9%)

Vail’s sprawling 5,300-acre ski resort is legendary, attracting outdoor enthusiasts from around the world. The area’s natural beauty, year-round recreation, and luxury homes make it one of the most iconic ski towns in America.

8. Incline Village, NV

• Number of listings: 414

• Listings over $5 million: 49 (11.8%)

Located on the northern shore of Lake Tahoe, Incline Village offers breathtaking lakeside views and a serene, small-town feel. The area boasts the highest concentration of ski resorts in North America, making it an ideal base for winter sports enthusiasts.

9. Cashiers, NC

• Number of listings: 181

• Listings over $5 million: 21 (11.6%)

Cashiers, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, offers Southern charm with a snowy twist. Just two-and-a-half hours from Atlanta, the town is a hidden gem for luxury buyers who enjoy skiing at Sapphire Valley Resort and exploring scenic hiking trails.

10. Sun Valley, ID

• Number of listings: 154

• Listings over $5 million: 17 (11.0%)

Sun Valley’s Bald and Dollar Mountains provide over 2,500 acres of terrain and have been ranked the No. 1 ski resort in North America by SKI Magazine three years running. The area also has a thriving arts scene and has become a go-to retreat for both full-time and part-time residents seeking a mountain lifestyle.

11. Steamboat Springs, CO

• Number of listings: 603

• Listings over $5 million: 61 (10.1%)

Known for its laid-back vibe and “champagne powder” snow, Steamboat Springs is a family-friendly ski destination with nearly 3,000 acres of terrain. The town attracts retirees, families, and second-home buyers looking for a more relaxed but still luxurious mountain experience.

Takeaways for Real Estate Enthusiasts and Investors

The luxury ski town market remains resilient, driven by affluent buyers seeking second homes and retreats in idyllic mountain settings. Low inventory and strong demand continue to push prices to new heights, making these areas prime targets for real estate professionals and investors. Whether you’re a buyer searching for your dream mountain home or an investor looking to capitalize on high-value markets, understanding the nuances of these exclusive destinations is key to making informed decisions.

Connect with Daniel Kaufman

If you’re intrigued by the allure of luxury ski towns or are considering making a move, I’m here to help. As a real estate professional with a pulse on market trends and a passion for helping clients achieve their lifestyle goals, I’d love to guide you through the process.

Visit www.danielkaufman.info or reach out to me directly for personalized insights and opportunities in these exceptional winter wonderlands. Let’s make your mountain dreams a reality!