No longer just famous for its beaches and relaxed way of life, Goa is quickly becoming a strategic real estate hub—especially for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs). The limelight is currently on New Goa, used increasingly to refer to the developed and developing areas around North Goa and Mopa, in the vicinity of the newly opened Manohar International Airport. Improved infrastructure, luxury projects, and an overt governmental thrust, New Goa is turning out to be one of the most profitable places for international Indian property investors.
Infrastructure and Accessibility
One of the major impellers for this change is accessibility. Mopa Airport’s introduction has greatly enhanced Goa’s access to international cities. What used to be a domestic loop from metro centers is now a direct entry, of great attraction to NRIs looking for a second home or rental property that does not involve logistical hassle. The region around the airport is seeing a rush of mega-sized realty projects, most of which are NRI-specific in intent—luxury villas, concierge-guarded communities, and resort-style integrated wellness or co-working spaces. Luxury housing demand in Goa picked up 35% year-on-year, and NRIs purchased nearly 25% of the premium homes in the state, based on a 2024 Anarock report.
In addition, rental returns in these micro-markets—specifically those catering to high-end tourism—have touched 12–14% per annum, a significant departure from the national norm of 4–5%, making Goa one of India’s most rewarding rental hubs. For income-yielding, long-term appreciating investments, NRIs seeking the former, this double advantage of tourism-pushed demand and price appreciation presents a compelling financial argument.
Policy Ease and Lifestyle Appeal
The second key driver behind this NRI trend is policy and lifestyle alignment. Goa has always placed among the top five Indian states for ease of doing business in real estate for non-residents, owing to online property records, speedy registration, and investor-friendly policies. Goa’s Tourism Master Plan 2031 also considers the state a high-value, low-density proposition, promoting sustainable infrastructure—a tick for NRIs who care about long-term value and livability. Even culturally, New Goa provides a familiar mix of international living and Indian heritage.
Most of the upcoming townships in the periphery of Mopa and Pernem are being built by quality brands providing 2BHK and 3BHK villas beginning with INR 1.5 crore, with amenities that reflect international standards—just right for NRIs who wish for comforts of home with a tropical flavor. These are not standalone homes but groomed communities with clubhouses, wellness centers, and smart home technology—enchanting globalised buyers in search of a combination of lifestyle and long-term appreciation.
The Verdict
In a world where geopolitical tensions, inflation, and currency fluctuations affect conventional investment options, New Goa emerges as a smart, scenic, and secure real estate investment option. With its fast-developing infrastructure, aspirational lifestyle options, and increasing rental demand, it is not only an investment opportunity—but an emotional home. For NRIs wanting to marry emotional attachment with economic rationale, New Goa isn’t yet emerging. It’s already here.
