6 Unexpected Cities Where the Housing Market Is Booming
"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."
The holiday season is in full swing, and while most people are decking the halls and looking for the best home decor deals, some are instead shopping for homes. That's right, the winter is one of the most popular times to move, just after the early summer when schools let out. Families appreciate the time off from school and work during the holidays to unpack and settle into their dream spaces. And right now, some unexpected locales are experiencing a real estate boom.
According to Realtor.com data, the hottest real estate markets all have something in common: low prices and high inventory. Available housing levels were up more than 30 percent year-over-year in the third quarter of 2024, and they only continue to rise. But where are people buying these homes? From Akron, Ohio, to Springfield, Massachusetts, these are the six hottest real estate markets in the country right now.
6. Springfield, Massachusetts
Median Home Price: $393,000
Just over the Northern Connecticut border, Springfield, Massachusettes is the sixth most popular real estate market at the end of 2024. Homes here are still well below the national average, despite the state's higher taxes and excellent school systems. The city is the birthplace of Dr. Seuss and is just 30 minutes away from Brimfield, home to one of the largest antique markets in the country.
5. Kalamazoo-Portage, Michigan
Median Home Price: $360,000
Kalamazoo is located in Southern Michigan, just east of the eponymous Great Lake's shores. Here homes boast an average selling price of $360,000. This city has a major museum network including the Air Zoo Aerospace and Science Museum, the Kalamazoo Valley Museum, and the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts.
4. Manchester-Nashua, New Hampshire
Median Home Price: $563,000
Not only is the Manchester-Nashua area of New Hampshire the fourth hottest real estate market in the country, but it's also where homes sell the fastest, nationwide. Here, homes are a bit more expensive than other cities on this list, but the area boasts a wonderful community, nature access, and Northeastern way of life.
3. Milwaukee-Waukesha-West Allis, Wisconsin
Median Home Price: $390,000
A beloved midwestern city, it's no wonder why the greater Milwaukee area always makes the list of hottest markets to buy a home. Located on Lake Michigan, this area offers a great balance between urban life and easy access to nature. The city is known for its many breweries and passionate sports fans.
2. Akron, Ohio
Median Home Price: $230,000
Akron, Ohio, ranks number two on the most popular real estate markets right now. Here, many different styles of homes are easily affordable, including townhomes and single-family units. Here, residents enjoy a budding arts community and lively minor league sports games.
1 Canton-Masillon, Ohio
Median Home Price: $259,000
This quarter’s top market, the greater Canton area in Ohio, is affordable and in demand. Here, homes are well below the national average in price, some even boasting listing prices of $165,000 or lower. Known for the Pro Football Hall of Fame and a bustling local community, this area in Eastern Ohio is great for families and retirees alike.
Follow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.
You Might Also Like