Lavish homes of last 5 presidents: From Joe Biden's beachside haven to Barack Obama's city sanctuary

Touring the multi-million dollar homes of the past five US presidents

This year's race for the top office took an unexpected turn last month when President Joe Biden announced his decision to halt his campaign. The 81-year-old, currently serving his first term as POTUS, endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris for the Democratic ticket. A few days before the announcement, Biden tested positive for Covid-19 and isolated himself at his Delaware beach home, bringing attention to American presidents' private residences. These private homes not only serve as sanctuaries but also as intimate venues for entertaining family and friends. Here, we explore some notable estates of the last five US presidents.

1. Joe Biden's Delaware beach house

Joe Biden and his wife, Jill Biden, purchased this six-bedroom Rehoboth Beach home in 2017 for $2.7 million, and its value has since appreciated to approximately $3.4 million. The house is well-equipped with three fireplaces, two spacious porches, outdoor showers, an elevator, and even a dog-washing station. A sign reading "Beau's Gift" hangs outside, a poignant tribute to their late son Joseph Robinette "Beau" Biden. The home is a mere ten-minute walk from the Atlantic Ocean, and the Bidens are often seen enjoying the beach or cycling into town. The local community has embraced them warmly, with Biden-themed merchandise widely available.

2. Barack Obama's Washington, DC home

After completing his presidency, Barack Obama, along with his wife, Michelle Obama, settled in a stunning Tudor-style mansion in Washington, DC's exclusive Kalorama neighborhood. Purchased for $8.1 million, this 8,500-square-foot residence sits on a quarter-acre of land and boasts nine bedrooms. The Obamas chose this home to ensure their younger daughter Sasha could finish her high school education. The house was previously owned by Joe Lockhart, a former White House press secretary under Bill Clinton. In addition to this home, the Obamas own an $11.8 million estate in Martha's Vineyard. Both Sasha and her older sister Malia now reside in California, leaving their DC home primarily for family gatherings.

3. Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate

Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida, is arguably one of the most famous presidential residences outside the White House. Purchased in 1985 for $8 million, Mar-a-Lago's value has skyrocketed, potentially exceeding $1 billion today, Tarpon Island project developer Todd Michael Glaser told the Wall Street Journal. The estate, dubbed the "Winter White House," spans an impressive area and is known for its opulent 20,000-square-foot ballroom, beauty salon, and spa. Mar-a-Lago has been the venue for numerous Trump family events and political conventions. It's renowned for its luxurious decor, featuring gold gilding, chandeliers, and plush fabrics, reflecting Trump’s lavish style.

4. George W Bush's Texas ranch

George W Bush and his wife, Laura Bush, chose a serene 1,600-acre location in Central Texas for their Prairie Chapel Ranch. Situated near Crawford, Texas, the ranch was built in 2001 and became their permanent residence after Bush's presidency ended in 2009. Known as the "Western White House," this retreat hosted several world leaders during Bush's tenure. The property includes a 90-acre tree farm with thousands of live oaks, burr oaks, bald cypresses, and other species, providing a picturesque and peaceful environment for the Bush family and their daughters, Barbara and Jenna.

5. Bill Clinton's New York farmhouse

In 1999, Bill and Hillary Clinton, along with their daughter Chelsea, moved into a charming Dutch Colonial house in Chappaqua, New York. Purchased for $1.7 million, this multi-story farmhouse became their home after Clinton's presidency concluded in 2001. The 5,300-square-foot house features five bedrooms, four bathrooms, and a private pool. In 2016, the Clintons expanded their estate by purchasing the neighboring home for $1.2 million, creating a larger family compound. This residence served as a home base for Hillary during her tenure as a New York senator from 2001 to 2009, as per Hello! Magazine.