This article originally appeared on Point2Homes.com

Although the pandemic managed to scare some Canadians and keep them from going south, many other were undeterred. Snowbirds and home buyers interested in more exotic locations kept searching for the perfect home south of the border, a home that would provide some much needed respite from the pandemic’s relentless stress and frustration.

So what are Canadians’ most popular home buying destinations in the Americas? Compared to 2015 and 2018, there are some surprising changes at the top, but also destinations that are becoming mainstays.

Here are this year’s key takeaways:

  • Mexico and the US remain the most popular destinations in which to buy a second home in the Americas.
  • Costa Rica -- the third-most sought-after location in 2018 -- remains on the podium, solidifying its position as one of the most in-demand tropical location.
  • Newcomers Barbados and US Virgin Islands kicked Jamaica and Ecuador out of the top 10 most-desirable locations.
  • The newest addition to Canada’s top 30 most searched vacation destinations is Saint Kitts and Nevins.

#1 Mexico’s Amazing Beaches Continue to Attract Canadian Homebuyers

AmericasPlaya del Carmen, Mexico/Shutterstock

Mexico remains Canadians’ darling in 2021 as well. Since 2015, when Point2 first started analyzing the most searched vacation destinations, this tropical paradise hasn’t budged from the first place.

And in this country, the three locations that dominate Canadians’ collective imagination and attract the most searches are Puerto Vallarta, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum. Thanks to their endless beaches, exquisite gastronomy and laid-back, joyful customs and way of life, these resort cities promise a much-needed change of lifestyle for those willing to make a more permanent move.

READ: ‘Extreme’ Demand-Supply Imbalance Will Push Luxury Real Estate Prices Higher

So what housing options are there for Canadians ready to flee to Mexico? Here are some properties that go for about the median home price in Canada, which reached a staggering $663,503 in August, according to CREA:

#2 The US Retains Its Appeal for Canadian Second-Home Buyers

AmericasLas Vegas, USA/Shutterstock

Canada’s neighbour to the south has always been a convenient location for second home buyers. With locations that have something for everyone, the US is sure to attract home buyers who would love a change of scenery.

Canadians’ preferred locations in the US are well-known, popular cities like New York and Las Vegas, but also amazing, tropical-weather destinations like Hawaii and Florida. These search patterns show that while some Canadians are interested in the more notorious or legendary American cities, others move south for the amazing weather in Texas and Arizona, or the beaches in Florida.

Here are some lovely properties Canadian home buyers could start to call home in the US:

#3 Tropical Paradise Costa Rica Earns 3rd Spot as Most In-Demand Second-Home Location

AmericasPlaya Tamarindo, Guanacaste, Costa Rica/Shutterstock

Offering a wide array of outdoor adventures, Costa Rica is simply the epitome of fun, relaxation, and zest for life. Whether they are interested in historic landmarks, discovering the country’s bewildering wildlife or simply spending all their time at the beach, Canadian tourists as well as second home buyers will never have the chance to get bored.

The three top destinations that Canadians prefer in this country are Tamarindo, Jaco, and Nosara. Known for its beaches and its great surfing and other water sports and activities, Tamarindo is perfect for the more active and the adventurous. The same goes for Jaco, which is known for its surf beaches and nightlife, and as a gateway to national parks.

On the other hand, those who would like to slow things down, get more in touch with nature and with themselves, should head over to Nosara. Popular mostly for its world-class yoga retreats and yoga studios, this place will surely help those who move there relax and adopt the Zen state of mind.

Curious what the average home price in Canada will buy you in these locations? Check out some of the best homes money can buy in Costa Rica’s most wanted cities:

To see specific figures for each of the 30 destinations included in the ranking hover over the bars in the chart below:

To learn more about the methodology behind this ranking you can go here.

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