Ruby Rose, the Melbourne-born actress and model, made a significant life change in 2023 by leaving Hollywood to return to Australia. This move came three years after her controversial exit from the Batwoman TV series, marking a new chapter following her 13-year stint in the United States.
A-List Real Estate Skills in Los Angeles
During her time in America, Ruby Rose demonstrated impressive property investment acumen that would rival any seasoned real estate player. At the height of her success, the Orange is The New Black star made a strategic purchase in 2017 that would prove financially rewarding.
The Sherman Oaks Luxury Purchase
In 2017, Ruby invested US$2.1 million (approximately AU$3 million) in a luxurious property located in the prestigious Los Angeles suburb of Sherman Oaks. This stylish home, originally built in 1948, featured distinctive architectural elements including an open-plan lounge area, a substantial fireplace, and exposed beam ceilings that added character to the space.
The actress later shared images of this character-filled abode on her Instagram account, revealing a secluded backyard complete with a swimming pool that offered privacy and relaxation. This property would become a significant asset in her investment portfolio.
Profitable Exit from LA Property
In 2021, Ruby Rose made the decision to sell her Sherman Oaks property for exactly what she paid for it - US$2.1 million. However, through strategic ownership and market timing, she managed to secure a substantial US$300,000 profit from the transaction, demonstrating her understanding of the Los Angeles real estate market.
Upgrading to Valley Village
Following her successful Sherman Oaks investment, Ruby made another significant property move within the Los Angeles area. Her next purchase represented a notable upgrade - a spacious four-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom home located in the sought-after Valley Village neighborhood of the San Fernando Valley.
For this expansive property, which featured a swimming pool and oak floors with décor that skillfully blended vintage and modern styles, the dark-haired actress paid US$2.6 million (approximately AU$3.7 million). This acquisition showed her continued confidence in the Southern California property market.
Australian Retreat and Return Plans
Before making her official return to Australia, Ruby shared glimpses with her fans of a country home she had been using as a personal retreat for some time. Reports from 2020 indicated she had spent two consecutive Christmases with family in a remote cabin nestled on the edge of bushland by the coast.
This distinctive property features black wood construction, glass walls, and a striking futuristic-inspired triangular window with metal beams at the front of the structure, offering panoramic views of the water. Ruby previously described the location to a fan as 'a secret magical place in Victoria'.
While it remains unclear whether Ruby owns this unique-looking property outright, if it belongs to her family, or if she holds it under a long-term lease arrangement, it clearly represents her connection to her Australian roots.
Dividing Time Between Continents
Although 2023 reports suggested Ruby was set on re-settling in Australia permanently, the actress appears to have adopted a more flexible approach, dividing her time between both countries. This transcontinental lifestyle allows her to maintain connections in both Hollywood and her homeland.
Personal Motivations for the Move
Ruby has been open about her reasons for spending more time in Australia, citing the emotional toll of living in the United States. She described the experience as 'draining' and toxic, particularly regarding attitudes toward the LGBTQI+ community.
'I don't know that I have the emotional bandwidth and energy to withstand another year of living in the States with that anger and that oppression and what they're doing to the gay community and the trans community – it has become so exhausting,' she explained to Stellar magazine.
Ruby's personal journey includes coming out as a lesbian to her mother before entering her teenage years, and later recognizing her sexual identity as gender-fluid. These experiences have undoubtedly shaped her perspective on where she feels most comfortable living and working.
Through her property investments and international moves, Ruby Rose has demonstrated not only her real estate savvy but also her commitment to living authentically across two continents that have shaped her career and personal identity.
