Lionel Messi has spent most of his life under a microscope. When you’re arguably the greatest player to ever touch a football, your "home" isn't just a house—it's a fortress, a sanctuary, and usually, a massive news story. Since his earthquake-level move to MLS, everyone wants to know: where does Lionel Messi live right now?
He isn't bouncing between hotels anymore. He’s found a spot that fits his vibe. It’s a mix of ultra-luxury and "get away from me" privacy. Honestly, it’s exactly what you’d expect for a guy who just wants to play with his kids and grill some meat in peace.
The Florida Chapter: Life in Bay Colony
The search for a permanent Florida home felt like a reality show for a minute there. Messi and Antonela were spotted everywhere from Boca Raton to the swankiest parts of Miami. But in late 2023, they finally pulled the trigger on a massive estate in Fort Lauderdale. Specifically, the gated community of Bay Colony.
It’s a $10.75 million waterfront mansion. The place is huge—roughly 10,500 square feet. It’s got eight bedrooms, nine bathrooms, and a three-car garage. But the real kicker? It has 170 feet of waterfront with two boat docks. It’s tucked away on a cul-de-sac, which is basically code for "paparazzi, please stay away."
Living in Fort Lauderdale wasn't a random choice. It’s super close to Chase Stadium (formerly DRV PNK) and Inter Miami’s training facility. We're talking a five-mile commute. For a guy who values family time above everything, cutting down drive time was probably the biggest selling point.
His neighbor, entrepreneur Patrick Bet-David, actually went on record saying his own house value jumped by $25 million the second Messi moved in next door. That’s the "Messi Effect" in real estate form. People are literally taking boat tours past the house just to catch a glimpse of the No. 10 shirt drying on a balcony.
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More Than Just One Roof in Miami
You’ve gotta realize Messi didn't just buy one house and call it a day. He’s been stacking Florida real estate like he stacks trophies. Before the Fort Lauderdale mansion, he already owned a $7.3 million full-floor unit in the Regalia building in Sunny Isles Beach. He also has a place in the Porsche Design Tower.
That Porsche tower is wild. It has a car elevator—the "Dezervator"—that lets you drive your car straight into your living room. Perfect for a guy with a $3 million car collection who doesn't want to deal with valet parking or autograph seekers in the lobby.
Looking toward 2026 and beyond, he’s already thinking bigger. He reportedly has four condos under contract at the Cipriani Residences Miami. These aren’t even finished yet—completion is slated for 2028. One of those units is part of the Canaletto Collection and starts at $7.5 million. It seems pretty clear that even when his Inter Miami contract eventually ends, the Messi family is staying in the 305.
The Houses He Kept (and the Ones He Struggles With)
While Florida is the day-to-day base, Messi’s heart—and a lot of his money—is still in Europe and Argentina.
- Barcelona (Castelldefels): This is the legendary home. It’s in a no-fly zone (literally, planes aren't allowed to fly over it). It’s worth about $7 million now and features a mini football pitch where he spent years training. He still owns it. It’s his sanctuary whenever he goes back to Spain.
- Ibiza: This one has been a bit of a headache. He bought a $12 million mansion on the west coast near Cala Tarida, but it’s had some legal drama. Local authorities flagged it for unapproved extensions (like extra rooms in the garage). There’s been talk of partial demolition if they can’t get the paperwork sorted.
- The "Fortress" in Rosario: This is the retirement plan. Located in the Kentucky neighborhood of Funes, near his hometown of Rosario, Argentina. It has about 25 rooms, a cinema, and a garage for 15 cars. This is where he spends Christmas and where he’ll likely end up when the boots are finally hung up for good.
Why He Chose Fort Lauderdale Over Miami Beach
A lot of people expected Messi to live in the heart of South Beach or a flashy penthouse in Brickell. But if you know Leo, that was never going to happen. He’s a "quiet life" guy. Fort Lauderdale is way more low-key than Miami.
Bay Colony offers 24-hour security and a private feel that you just don't get in the high-rises. He can take his kids to a local park or go to a grocery store (remember those viral photos of him at Publix?) without it becoming a full-blown riot every single time.
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Actionable Insights for Fans and Property Watchers
If you're tracking Messi’s moves or just interested in the high-end market he's influencing, here's the reality:
- Follow the Club, Not the Beach: Messi’s primary residence will always be within a 15-minute radius of his training ground. Convenience beats "cool" for him.
- Privacy is the Currency: His properties are almost always in gated communities or "no-fly" zones. If you're looking for his house, look for the most isolated lot in the most expensive neighborhood.
- Investment over Vanity: While the houses are flashy, his REIT (Edificio Rostower) shows he views real estate as a business. He owns seven hotels and various commercial spaces. He’s building a multi-generational empire, not just buying big TVs.
The "where" is Fort Lauderdale for now, but the "how" is always about family, security, and being close enough to the pitch to keep the dream alive.