Can you buy property in Antarctica?
John Thompson
Updated on January 15, 2026
Antarctica is the only place on the planet where the land isn't officially owned by anyone. A few countries have made land claims (for more about this, see the information box on the next page), but those claims aren't officially recognized and don't cover the entire continent.
Can you build a house on Antarctica?
Unlike just about any where else in the world, it is not really possible to build easily in Antarctica using naturally found materials (igloos aside which aren't permanent structures). There are no trees at all for instance and so no wood.Can you legally live in Antarctica?
The people who travel to or live in Antarctica fall into two main groups, those who live and work on scientific research stations or bases, and tourists. No-one lives in Antarctica indefinitely in the way that they do in the rest of the world. It has no commercial industries, no towns or cities, no permanent residents.Can I claim ownership of Antarctica?
Seven countries (Argentina, Australia, Chile, France, New Zealand, Norway, and the United Kingdom) maintain territorial claims in Antarctica, but the United States and most other countries do not recognize those claims.Is there real estate in Antarctica?
The principle of 'location, location, location' is as important in Antarctica as the rest of the world, with rare ice-free areas being highly desired real estate.I am buying property in Antarctica
How much do houses cost in Antarctica?
Top Vacation Rentals Locations in AntarcticaPrices in Antarctica start at an average price of $224 a night with long-term rentals averaging $4475 a month.