With the continuous surge in house prices across the United States, homebuyers on a limited budget are increasingly shifting towards markets that allow their funds to go further.
According to a compiled report from Realtor.com, the following ten metropolitan areas offer affordable housing options for buyers without sacrificing quality of life. It is noteworthy that compared to pre-pandemic data from 2019, these “safe haven” markets have also experienced significant price increases over the past six years.
– Median Listing Price: $178,250 (compared to $113,450 in 2019)
– Median Household Income: $56,828
Highlights of Life:
Muncie is located about an hour’s drive from Indianapolis and is home to Ball State University. The area boasts the 750-acre Prairie Creek Reservoir, a paradise for boating and hiking enthusiasts.
– Median Listing Price: $199,900 (compared to $135,000 in 2019)
– Median Household Income: $63,133
Highlights of Life:
Located about 60 miles from Detroit, this area features the renowned Toledo Museum of Art and the top-tier Toledo Zoo. It offers a low cost of living that appeals to those seeking “small-town living, big-city convenience.”
– Median Listing Price: $224,950 (compared to $149,900 in 2019)
– Median Household Income: $56,424
Highlights of Life:
Known as the “Cereal Capital of the World,” Kellogg’s headquarters are located here, recently ranked as the 5th best city in the U.S. for military veterans to reside. Binder Park Zoo in the area provides a unique African wilderness experience.
– Median Listing Price: $245,000 (compared to $189,900 in 2019)
– Median Household Income: $72,935
Highlights of Life:
Pittsburgh has successfully transitioned from a traditional steel city to a medical and AI technology hub. Despite its low housing prices, the city is home to three top professional sports teams like the Steelers (NFL) and the Penguins (NHL), fostering a strong sports culture.
– Median Listing Price: $250,000 (compared to $174,900 in 2019)
– Median Household Income: $68,695
Highlights of Life:
Situated on the southern shore of Lake Erie, Cleveland hosts the world-class Cleveland Clinic. The Lakefront Park provides rare leisurely waterfront spaces within a major city.
– Median Listing Price: $260,000 (compared to $159,900 in 2019)
– Median Household Income: $63,615
Highlights of Life:
A pilgrimage site for fans of the American TV show “The Office,” located geographically between New York and Philadelphia, attracting a significant influx of remote workers in recent years, fueling a revival of downtown craft breweries and historic buildings.
– Median Listing Price: $259,900 (compared to $185,000 in 2019)
– Median Household Income: $71,055
Highlights of Life:
Just two hours from Toronto, Buffalo features unique architectural aesthetics, including several works by master architect Frank Lloyd Wright, and a renowned dining culture like Buffalo’s famous spicy chicken wings.
– Median Listing Price: $285,000 (compared to $195,000 in 2019)
– Median Household Income: $70,286
Highlights of Life:
Dubbed the “Aviation Capital of the World,” Wichita is a critical hub for general aviation manufacturing globally. Despite being landlocked, its vibrant arts and music scene, and a cost of living index consistently over 10% below the national average.
– Median Listing Price: $285,000 (compared to $199,900 in 2019)
– Median Household Income: $71,983
Highlights of Life:
Located on the Bourbon Trail, the area boasts the famous Buffalo Trace Distillery. With scenic riverfront views and stable government job opportunities, life here is elegant and serene.
– Median Listing Price: $291,990 (compared to $219,900 in 2019)
– Median Household Income: $79,869
Highlights of Life:
Under the iconic Gateway Arch in St. Louis, a multitude of tech startups are emerging. The city offers several top-tier museums and zoos that are free to the public, a rarity in other major cities, making it an excellent choice for family growth.