Is the dream of owning your own home starting to feel like a distant fantasy? You're not alone. Between rising prices and interest rates that seem to have a mind of their own, stepping onto the property ladder feels more like scaling Mount Everest these days. But before you throw in the towel and resign yourself to renting forever, let's talk about some good news.

Believe it or not, the most affordable places for buying a home in 2025 might be closer than you think, and homeownership is still a realistic goal for many. In fact, recent data suggests that in over half of the housing markets across the US, buying a home could actually be more affordable than renting. Yes, you read that right!

Now, before you start packing your bags and searching for moving boxes, let's unpack this a bit (pun intended!). According to a recent report from ATTOM, a leading property data and analytics firm, owning a home is financially less burdensome than renting a three-bedroom property in a significant portion of the country.

This might come as a surprise in today's market, but let's delve into why this is the case and pinpoint those golden locations where your homeownership dreams can still take root without breaking the bank.

Most Affordable Places for Buying a Home in 2025: Is the American Dream Still Alive?

The Great Affordability Paradox: Owning vs. Renting in 2025

Let's be honest, the headlines often scream about unaffordable housing, and it's easy to feel discouraged. We hear about bidding wars, sky-high prices, and the struggle to save for a down payment. But the reality is nuanced, and focusing solely on price tags paints an incomplete picture. The ATTOM 2025 Rental Affordability Report sheds light on a crucial aspect: affordability isn't just about the initial price, it's about what portion of your income goes towards housing costs.

This report, which analyzed 341 county-level markets with sufficient data, reveals a fascinating trend. While both owning and renting are putting a strain on household budgets – often consuming a hefty 25% to 60% of average wages – the scales are tipping in favor of homeownership in many areas.

Specifically, in nearly 60% of the markets studied, the major expenses associated with owning a typical single-family home require a smaller chunk of the average paycheck compared to renting a three-bedroom residence. This is a significant finding, and it challenges the prevailing narrative of renting being the more economical option.

Rob Barber, CEO of ATTOM, puts it quite bluntly: “Buying or renting a home in the U.S. these days can be like searching for a diamond in a pile of marbles, and it’s only getting worse in most markets as the cost of both goes up.” He's right – it’s tough out there. However, he also highlights the silver lining: “…in most parts of the country, homeownership is somewhat more attainable for those who can gather the necessary resources to cover down payments…”

The down payment hurdle remains a significant barrier, especially when we're talking about figures that can easily surpass $200,000 in some markets. But once you clear that hurdle, the ongoing costs of ownership can surprisingly be more manageable than rent in many places.

Why is Owning Becoming More Affordable Than Renting in Some Areas?

You might be scratching your head right now. How can owning a home, with all its associated costs like mortgage payments, property taxes, insurance, and potential maintenance, be cheaper than renting? The answer lies in the dynamics of the housing market and how prices and rents are behaving differently.

The ATTOM report highlights a crucial trend: median home prices have generally risen faster over the past year than average rents across the country. In fact, in 66% of the counties analyzed, home prices have increased more or declined less than rents for three-bedroom properties. This means that while home prices might seem intimidatingly high upfront, the rate of increase in rents is catching up, and in some cases, exceeding the pace of home price growth.

Think about it this way: your mortgage payment, once locked in (especially with a fixed-rate mortgage), remains relatively stable over time. Property taxes and insurance can fluctuate, but they are generally more predictable than rent hikes. Rent, on the other hand, is subject to market forces and landlord decisions, and we've seen significant rent increases in many areas over the past few years. This dynamic is shifting the affordability equation in favor of homeownership in certain regions.

Regional Affordability Hotspots: Where Homeownership Still Makes Sense

The affordability picture isn't uniform across the US. As the ATTOM report points out, there are significant regional disparities. If you're looking for the most affordable places to buy a home in 2025, you should definitely set your sights on the Midwest and the South.

• The Midwest is the King of Affordable Homeownership: According to the report, in a whopping 80% of the Midwestern counties analyzed, owning a home requires a smaller portion of average wages compared to renting. This region is consistently highlighted as the most affordable for homebuyers. Think of states like Ohio, Michigan, Illinois, and Pennsylvania (parts of it considered Midwestern). These areas often have a lower cost of living overall, which translates to more affordable housing markets.
• The South is a Strong Contender: The South comes in second, with around 60% of counties favoring homeownership affordability over renting. States like Alabama, Florida, and Texas (especially outside of major metropolitan hubs like Austin) offer pockets of affordability.
• The Northeast is Mixed: The Northeast presents a more balanced picture, with about half of the counties analyzed showing homeownership as the more affordable option. While areas around major cities like New York City can be incredibly expensive, there are still pockets of relative affordability in states like Pennsylvania and even parts of New York state outside of the city center.
• The West: Renters' Paradise (Mostly): The West stands out as the outlier. In this region, renting is generally the financially easier choice. Around 80% of western markets favor renting over buying. This is largely driven by the high home prices in states like California, Hawaii, and Colorado, which often outpace local wage growth significantly.

Diving Deep: Counties Where Owning is Significantly More Affordable

Let's get specific and pinpoint some of the counties where the gap between owning and renting affordability is the widest. These are the locations where your homeownership dollar can stretch the furthest.

Remember, these figures are based on data from ATTOM and the Bureau of Labor Statistics, comparing major homeownership expenses (including mortgage, taxes, insurance, etc.) to average local wages, and average three-bedroom rents to average local wages.

Counties with the Biggest Affordability Gaps Favoring Homeownership:

County	Owning (% of Wages)	Renting (% of Wages)	Affordability Gap
Suffolk County, NY (outside NYC)	59%	159%	100%
Atlantic County, NJ (Atlantic City)	48%	111%	63%
Collier County, FL (Naples)	79%	127%	48%
Indian River County, FL (Vero Beach)	47%	83%	36%
Charlotte County, FL (Punta Gorda)	43%	69%	26%

• Suffolk County, NY (Outside NYC): This might surprise you given New York's reputation for high costs. But outside of the immediate city, in areas like Long Island's Suffolk County, the report highlights a massive disparity. Owning a home here consumes about 59% of average local wages, while renting a three-bedroom property devours a staggering 159%! This suggests that while initial home prices might be high, rents are even more out of sync with local incomes.
• Atlantic County, NJ (Atlantic City): Atlantic City and its surrounding areas in Atlantic County, NJ, also show a significant gap. Owning requires about 48% of wages, while renting eats up 111%. This could be due to a variety of factors, including the local economy and the type of rental properties available.
• Florida Counties (Collier, Indian River, Charlotte): Several Florida counties, including Collier (Naples), Indian River (Vero Beach), and Charlotte (Punta Gorda), pop up as surprisingly more affordable for homeowners. While Florida has seen a surge in popularity and prices, in these specific areas, the report suggests that owning still offers a better affordability proposition than renting.

Large Counties (Population over 1 Million) with Affordability Gaps Favoring Homeownership:

County	Owning (% of Wages)	Renting (% of Wages)	Affordability Gap
Riverside County, CA	71%	91%	20%
Wayne County, MI (Detroit)	15%	22%	7%
Cook County, IL (Chicago)	31%	36%	5%
Allegheny County, PA (Pittsburgh)	21%	25%	4%

• Riverside County, CA: Even in California, known for its expensive housing, Riverside County stands out. Owning a home here takes about 71% of wages, while renting requires 91%. This suggests that while still pricey, homeownership in Riverside County might be a slightly less painful financial burden compared to renting.
• Wayne County, MI (Detroit): Detroit, specifically Wayne County, emerges as a surprising leader in affordability. Owning a home in Wayne County consumes only 15% of average wages, while renting takes 22%. Detroit's revitalization and relatively lower housing costs make it a very attractive option for budget-conscious homebuyers.
• Cook County, IL (Chicago) & Allegheny County, PA (Pittsburgh): Major metropolitan areas like Chicago (Cook County) and Pittsburgh (Allegheny County) also show a slight advantage for homeowners, with owning being marginally more affordable than renting.

Counties Where Renting Holds the Affordability Edge

Of course, there are areas where renting remains the more financially sound choice. These are often high-cost urban centers where home prices are exceptionally high.

Counties with the Biggest Affordability Gaps Favoring Renting:

County	Renting (% of Wages)	Owning (% of Wages)	Affordability Gap
Alameda County, CA (Oakland)	48%	87%	39%
Honolulu County, HI	64%	103%	39%
San Mateo County, CA	31%	69%	38%
Santa Clara County, CA (San Jose)	27%	64%	37%
Loudoun County, VA	45%	81%	36%

• California Counties (Alameda, San Mateo, Santa Clara): No surprise here, California dominates the list of counties where renting is more affordable. Alameda County (Oakland), San Mateo County, and Santa Clara County (San Jose), all in the Bay Area, show significant gaps favoring renters. The tech boom and subsequent sky-high home prices have made homeownership incredibly expensive in this region.
• Honolulu County, HI: Hawaii, with its limited land and high demand, also makes renting the more affordable option. Honolulu County shows a substantial gap, with renting consuming 64% of wages compared to 103% for owning.
• Loudoun County, VA: Even areas outside of major metros like Washington, DC, can be surprisingly expensive. Loudoun County, VA, near DC, shows a significant gap favoring renting, suggesting that home prices in the DC suburbs are outpacing rent increases.

The Most Affordable Markets for Owning: Midwest Leads the Way

If you're solely focused on finding the absolute most affordable markets for owning a home, the Midwest is your best bet. The report highlights counties where major ownership expenses consume the smallest percentage of average local wages.

Most Affordable Counties for Owning:

County	Owning (% of Wages)
Jefferson County, AL (Birmingham)	15%
Wayne County, MI (Detroit)	15%
Peoria County, IL	15%
Montgomery County, AL	16%
Mobile County, AL	17%

• Alabama Counties (Jefferson, Montgomery, Mobile): Alabama takes the crown for affordability, with Jefferson County (Birmingham), Montgomery County, and Mobile County topping the list. These areas offer incredibly accessible homeownership, requiring only 15% to 17% of average wages for major ownership expenses.
• Wayne County, MI (Detroit) & Peoria County, IL: Detroit (Wayne County) continues to impress with its affordability, tied at the top of the list. Peoria County, IL, also joins the ranks as one of the most affordable places to own a home.

Affordable Large Counties (Population over 1 Million) for Owning:

County	Owning (% of Wages)
Wayne County, MI (Detroit)	15%
Allegheny County, PA (Pittsburgh)	21%
Cuyahoga County, OH (Cleveland)	21%
Harris County, TX (Houston)	26%
Philadelphia County, PA	28%

• Detroit, Pittsburgh, Cleveland, Houston, Philadelphia: These major cities represent a mix of Midwestern, Southern, and Northeastern locations, all offering relatively affordable homeownership compared to other large metros.

Most Affordable Rental Markets: Midwest Still Dominates

Unsurprisingly, the Midwest also shines when it comes to affordable rental markets. If you're not quite ready to buy, or prefer the flexibility of renting, these areas offer the most bang for your buck.

Most Affordable Counties for Renting:

County	Renting (% of Wages)
Black Hawk County, IA (Waterloo)	20%
Wayne County, MI (Detroit)	22%
Genesee County, MI (Flint)	23%
Jefferson County, AL (Birmingham)	23%
Hinds County, MS (Jackson)	23%

• Iowa, Michigan, Alabama, Mississippi: States like Iowa, Michigan, Alabama, and Mississippi offer the most affordable rental markets, with Black Hawk County, IA (Waterloo) leading the pack, requiring only 20% of average wages for a three-bedroom rental.

Affordable Large Counties (Population over 1 Million) for Renting:

County	Renting (% of Wages)
Wayne County, MI (Detroit)	22%
Cuyahoga County, OH (Cleveland)	25%
Allegheny County, PA (Pittsburgh)	25%
Philadelphia County, PA	27%
Santa Clara County, CA (San Jose)	27%

• Detroit, Cleveland, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, San Jose (Surprisingly): While San Jose (Santa Clara County) is expensive for homeownership, it appears more affordable for renting compared to other California markets, ranking among the most affordable large counties for renters nationally.

Wage Growth vs. Housing Cost Growth: A Critical Factor

The affordability picture is constantly evolving, and understanding how wages are keeping pace (or not keeping pace) with housing costs is crucial. The ATTOM report provides insights into this dynamic as well.

• Wages Growing Faster Than Rents in Most Markets: Good news! In 72% of the counties analyzed, average wages are increasing more or declining less than average rents. This is a positive sign for renters, as their earning power is generally keeping up with or exceeding rent increases in a majority of markets.
• Home Prices Increasing Faster Than Wages in Half the Nation: However, the flip side is that in 52% of counties, median home prices are going up more or declining less than average wages. This means that for potential homebuyers in these areas, affordability is still a challenge, as home prices are outpacing wage growth in a slight majority of markets.

Important Note: While wages are generally growing faster than rents, and in some areas, homeownership is becoming relatively more affordable, the overall housing affordability situation remains challenging for many Americans. The report emphasizes that major homeownership expenses require more than one-third of average local wages in 68% of the counties analyzed, and average rents require more than one-third of wages in 76% of counties. Housing costs are still a significant burden for a large portion of the population.

My Takeaway: Homeownership Dreams Are Still Achievable, Especially in the Heartland

As someone who has been observing the real estate market for years, I find these findings both encouraging and realistic. While the national headlines might paint a bleak picture of housing affordability, the ATTOM 2025 Rental Affordability Report offers a more grounded and localized perspective. It clearly demonstrates that the most affordable places for buying a home in 2025 are concentrated in the Midwest and to a lesser extent, the South.

If you're serious about homeownership and are willing to consider locations outside of the ultra-expensive coastal markets, your dream is absolutely within reach. Cities like Detroit, Birmingham, Pittsburgh, and Cleveland are not just affordable; they are also experiencing revitalization and offer vibrant communities with a lower cost of living overall. These are places where your hard-earned money can go further, not just in housing, but in your overall quality of life.

Of course, the down payment remains a major hurdle. Saving for that 20% down payment (or even a smaller percentage) is still a significant undertaking. But knowing that once you overcome that hurdle, your monthly housing costs might actually be less than renting in many of these affordable markets is a powerful motivator.

So, don't let the national housing doom and gloom discourage you. Do your research, explore the markets highlighted in this report, and consider broadening your location horizons. The American dream of homeownership is still alive and well, particularly in the heartland of the country. It might just require a shift in perspective and a willingness to explore opportunities in the most affordable places for buying a home in 2025.

The dream of owning a home is still within reach for many Americans. While national housing prices continue to climb, several states offer a welcome respite for budget-conscious buyers. This in-depth exploration dives into the cheapest states to buy a house in 2024, providing a clear picture of median home values, cost-of-living factors you need to consider, and valuable insights tailored to help you make an informed decision.

Our research focuses on the data sourced from Zillow. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned homeowner looking to relocate to a more affordable area, buying a house in one of these states could be a great choice for those looking to save money while still enjoying all the amenities.

21 Cheapest States to Buy a House in the United States in 2024

From the charming landscapes of West Virginia to the cultural richness of Louisiana, this list is ranked from least expensive to most expensive based on their average home values as of November 2024. From vibrant cityscapes to charming small towns, these states boast a diverse range of communities, ensuring there's something to suit everyone's taste.

1. West Virginia – Home Value: $165,830

Known for its natural beauty and friendly communities.

West Virginia is a beautiful state that offers affordable housing and a high quality of life. Known for its natural beauty, the state has many attractions for outdoor enthusiasts such as state parks, hiking trails, and scenic drives. In addition to its beautiful landscapes, West Virginia has a rich history and cultural heritage that can be seen in its museums and festivals. The state is also home to several top-notch universities such as West Virginia University and Marshall University, offering excellent educational opportunities.

The top cities to consider for homebuyers in West Virginia are:

• Charleston: The state capital, Charleston, offers a mix of city and small-town living with a thriving downtown and easy access to outdoor recreation.
• Huntington: Located in western West Virginia, Huntington is a charming riverfront city with a growing economy and affordable real estate options.
• Morgantown: Home to West Virginia University, Morgantown offers a college-town vibe with access to outdoor activities such as hiking and boating.

2. Mississippi – Home Value: $177,461

Offers a low cost of living and a mild climate.

Mississippi is a state that offers a low cost of living and a mild climate. The state has a rich history and culture that can be seen in its museums, art galleries, and music festivals. Mississippi also has many outdoor attractions such as beaches, forests, and parks, making it a great place for nature lovers. The state is home to several top-ranked universities, including the University of Mississippi, Mississippi State University, and Jackson State University.

The top cities to consider for homebuyers in Mississippi are:

• Jackson: The state capital, Jackson, offers a mix of city and small-town living with a variety of cultural attractions and affordable real estate options.
• Gulfport: Located on the Gulf Coast, Gulfport is a thriving beach town with a growing economy and access to outdoor recreation.
• Hattiesburg: Located in southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg is a charming college town with a strong sense of community and affordable real estate options.

3. Louisiana – Home Value: $198,053

Offers a unique blend of cultures and traditions.

Louisiana is a state that offers a unique blend of cultures and traditions. Known for its Cajun and Creole cuisine, music, and festivals, Louisiana has a lot to offer residents. The state is home to several top-rated universities, including Tulane University and Louisiana State University. In addition to its rich cultural heritage, Louisiana also has many outdoor attractions such as state parks, wildlife refuges, and historic sites.

The top cities to consider for homebuyers in Louisiana are:

• New Orleans: Known for its vibrant culture and music scene, New Orleans offers a mix of city and small-town living with affordable real estate options.
• Baton Rouge: The state capital, Baton Rouge, offers a mix of city and small-town living with a thriving economy and affordable real estate options.
• Lafayette: Known for its Cajun cuisine and music, Lafayette offers a mix of culture and outdoor recreation with affordable real estate options.

4. Oklahoma – Home Value: $203,633

Known for its friendly communities and a strong economy.

Oklahoma is a state that offers a low cost of living and a strong economy. Known for its friendly communities and diverse geography, the state has many attractions for residents. Oklahoma is home to several top-ranked universities such as the University of Oklahoma and Oklahoma State University. The state also has many outdoor attractions such as lakes, mountains, and state parks, making it a great place for nature lovers.

The top cities to consider for homebuyers in Oklahoma are:

• Oklahoma City: The state capital, Oklahoma City, offers a mix of city and small-town living with a strong economy and affordable real estate options.
• Tulsa: Known for its art deco architecture and cultural attractions, Tulsa offers a mix of city and small-town living with affordable real estate options.
• Norman: Home to the University of Oklahoma, Norman offers a college-town vibe with access to outdoor activities such as hiking and biking.

5. Kentucky – Home Value: $205,306

Offers a low cost of living and a rich history.

Kentucky is a state that offers a low cost of living and a rich history. The state is known for its horse racing, bourbon, and bluegrass music, as well as its beautiful landscapes. Kentucky is home to several top-rated universities such as the University of Kentucky and the University of Louisville. The state also has many outdoor attractions such as state parks, lakes, and forests, making it a great place for outdoor enthusiasts.

The top cities to consider for homebuyers in Kentucky are:

• Louisville: The largest city in Kentucky, Louisville, offers a mix of city and small-town living with a thriving arts scene and affordable real estate options.
• Lexington: Known as the “Horse Capital of the World,” Lexington offers a mix of history and outdoor recreation with a strong equestrian culture and affordable real estate options.
• Bowling Green: Located in southern Kentucky, Bowling Green is a charming college town with access to outdoor activities such as hiking and boating, as well as affordable real estate options.

6 Arkansas – Home Value: $208,238

Known for its natural beauty and thriving arts scene.

Arkansas is a state that offers a high quality of life and affordable housing. Known for its natural beauty and thriving arts scene, the state has a lot to offer residents. Arkansas is home to many state parks, lakes, and mountains, offering ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. The state also has a rich history that can be seen in its museums and historic sites. The University of Arkansas, Arkansas State University, and the University of Central Arkansas are among the top universities in the state.

The top cities to consider for homebuyers in Arkansas are:

• Little Rock: The state capital, Little Rock, offers a mix of city and small-town living with a thriving arts scene and affordable real estate options.
• Fayetteville: Home to the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville offers a college-town vibe with access to outdoor activities such as hiking and biking.
• Hot Springs: Known for its natural hot springs, Hot Springs offers a mix of history and outdoor recreation with affordable real estate options.

7. Iowa – Home Value: $215,336

Known for its beautiful landscapes and strong agricultural industry.

Iowa is a state that offers beautiful landscapes and a strong agricultural industry. Known for its cornfields, rolling hills, and picturesque small towns, Iowa has a lot to offer residents. The state is home to several top-ranked universities such as the University of Iowa and Iowa State University. In addition to its natural beauty, Iowa also has many cultural attractions such as museums, theaters, and festivals.

The top cities to consider for homebuyers in Iowa are:

• Des Moines: The state capital, Des Moines, offers a mix of city and small-town living with a thriving arts and culture scene and affordable real estate options.
• Cedar Rapids: Located in eastern Iowa, Cedar Rapids is a growing city with a variety of cultural attractions and access to outdoor recreation.
• Iowa City: Home to the University of Iowa, Iowa City offers a college-town vibe with access to outdoor activities such as hiking and biking, as well as a strong arts and culture scene.

8. Alabama – Home Value: $225,130

Known for its warm climate and Southern hospitality.

Alabama is a state that offers a warm climate and Southern hospitality. Known for its historic sites, museums, and beaches, Alabama has a lot to offer residents. The state is home to several top-ranked universities such as the University of Alabama and Auburn University. In addition to its rich history and cultural attractions, Alabama also has many outdoor recreational opportunities such as state parks, lakes, and hiking trails.

The top cities to consider for homebuyers in Alabama are:

9. Kansas – Home Value: $229,012

Known for its vast prairies and friendly communities.

Kansas is a state that offers a low cost of living and a strong agricultural industry. Known for its wheat fields and wide-open spaces, the state has much to offer residents. Kansas is home to several top-ranked universities such as the University of Kansas and Kansas State University. The state also has many cultural attractions such as museums, theaters, and festivals.

The top cities to consider for homebuyers in Kansas are:

• Wichita: The largest city in Kansas, Wichita, offers a mix of city and small-town living with a strong economy and affordable real estate options.
• Topeka: The state capital, Topeka, offers a mix of city and small-town living with a variety of cultural attractions and affordable real estate options.
• Kansas City: Located on the border of Missouri, Kansas City offers a mix of city and small-town living with a variety of cultural attractions and affordable real estate options.

10. Ohio – Home Value: $230,798

Offers a low cost of living and a diverse economy.

Ohio is a state that offers a low cost of living and a diverse economy. Known for its industrial heritage, the state has many attractions for residents. Ohio is home to several top-rated universities such as Ohio State University and the University of Cincinnati. The state also has many outdoor attractions such as state parks, lakes, and forests, making it a great place for outdoor enthusiasts.

The top cities to consider for homebuyers in Ohio are:

• Columbus: The state capital, Columbus, offers a mix of city and small-town living with a thriving economy and affordable real estate options.
• Cleveland: Located on Lake Erie, Cleveland is a vibrant city with a variety of cultural attractions and affordable real estate options.
• Cincinnati: Located on the Ohio River, Cincinnati offers a mix of city and small-town living with a strong arts and culture scene and affordable real estate options.

12. Michigan – Home Value: $241,007

Offers a low cost of living and access to the Great Lakes.

Michigan is a state that offers a low cost of living and access to the Great Lakes. Homebuyers in Michigan can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming. The state also has a strong economy, particularly in the automotive industry.

Top cities to consider for homebuyers in Michigan include:

• Detroit: Known for its vibrant downtown and cultural attractions, Detroit has a growing real estate market with many affordable options.
• Grand Rapids: Named one of the best places to live in the U.S., Grand Rapids has a diverse economy and a thriving arts scene.
• Ann Arbor: Home to the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor offers a mix of college-town charm and cosmopolitan amenities.

13. Missouri – Home Value: $244,676

Offers a low cost of living and diverse geography.

Missouri is a state that offers a low cost of living and diverse geography. Homebuyers in Missouri can enjoy urban and rural settings, as well as a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating. The state also has a strong economy with several growing industries.

Top cities to consider for homebuyers in Missouri include:

• St. Louis: Known for its iconic Gateway Arch and thriving downtown, St. Louis has a growing real estate market with many affordable options.
• Kansas City: Located on the border of Missouri and Kansas, Kansas City has a vibrant arts scene and a growing real estate market.
• Springfield: Located in southwest Missouri, Springfield offers a low cost of living and access to many outdoor activities.

14. Nebraska – Home Value: $258,011

Offers a low cost of living and a strong agricultural industry.

Nebraska is a state that offers a low cost of living and a strong agricultural industry. Homebuyers in Nebraska can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and hunting. The state is also known for its friendly residents and a strong sense of community.

Top cities to consider for homebuyers in Nebraska include:

• Omaha: The largest city in Nebraska, Omaha offers a strong economy and a variety of cultural attractions.
• Lincoln: The capital city of Nebraska, Lincoln has a growing real estate market and a thriving downtown.
• Kearney: Located in central Nebraska, Kearney offers a low cost of living and access to outdoor activities such as camping and boating.

15. Pennsylvania – Home Value: $264,752

Known for its history and beautiful landscapes.

Pennsylvania is a state that is known for its history and beautiful landscapes. Homebuyers in Pennsylvania can enjoy access to cultural attractions such as museums and historic sites, as well as outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and fishing. The state also has a strong economy, particularly in the healthcare and education industries.

Top cities to consider for homebuyers in Pennsylvania include:

• Philadelphia: Known as the birthplace of America, Philadelphia has a diverse real estate market with many historic properties.
• Pittsburgh: Located in western Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh has a growing real estate market and a variety of cultural attractions.
• Harrisburg: The capital city of Pennsylvania, Harrisburg offers a low cost of living and access to many outdoor activities such as hiking and biking.

16. North Dakota – Home Value: $264,755

Known for its oil industry and wide-open spaces.

North Dakota is a state that is known for its oil industry and wide-open spaces. Homebuyers in North Dakota can enjoy a low cost of living and a strong sense of community. The state also has a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and hunting.

Top cities to consider for homebuyers in North Dakota include:

• Fargo: The largest city in North Dakota, Fargo has a growing real estate market and a strong economy.
• Bismarck: The capital city of North Dakota, Bismarck offers a low cost of living and access to many outdoor activities.
• Grand Forks: Located in northeast North Dakota, Grand Forks is home to the University of North Dakota and offers a variety of cultural attractions.

17. Illinois – Home Value: $265,510

Offers a mix of urban and rural living and a strong economy.

Illinois is a state that offers a mix of urban and rural living and a strong economy. Homebuyers in Illinois can enjoy access to cultural attractions, as well as a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and skiing. The state is also home to several top-ranked universities.

Top cities to consider for homebuyers in Illinois include:

• Chicago: Known for its world-class museums and iconic architecture, Chicago has a diverse real estate market with many affordable options.
• Springfield: The capital city of Illinois, Springfield has a rich history and a variety of cultural attractions.
• Champaign: Home to the University of Illinois, Champaign offers a mix of college-town charm and cosmopolitan amenities.

18. South Carolina – Home Value: $293,664

Known for its beautiful beaches and warm climate.

South Carolina is a state that is known for its beautiful beaches and warm climate. Homebuyers in South Carolina can enjoy a low cost of living and access to outdoor activities such as boating and fishing. The state also has a growing economy, particularly in the healthcare and tourism industries.

Top cities to consider for homebuyers in South Carolina include:

• Charleston: Known for its historic architecture and beaches, Charleston has a diverse real estate market with many affordable options.
• Greenville: Located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Greenville has a growing real estate market and a variety of outdoor activities.
• Columbia: The capital city of South Carolina, Columbia offers a low cost of living and access to cultural attractions such as museums and theaters.

19. New Mexico – Home Value: $301,651

Known for its unique blend of cultures and beautiful desert landscapes.

New Mexico is a state that is known for its unique blend of cultures and beautiful desert landscapes. Homebuyers in New Mexico can enjoy a low cost of living and access to outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and hot springs. The state is also home to several top-rated universities.

Top cities to consider for homebuyers in New Mexico include:

• Albuquerque: The largest city in New Mexico, Albuquerque has a diverse real estate market with many affordable options.
• Santa Fe: Known for its historic architecture and art scene, Santa Fe offers a mix of culture and natural beauty.
• Las Cruces: Located in southern New Mexico, Las Cruces offers a low cost of living and access to outdoor activities such as hiking and camping.

20. Wisconsin – Home Value: $303,957

Offers a low cost of living and access to outdoor activities.

Wisconsin is a state that offers a low cost of living and access to outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and skiing. Homebuyers in Wisconsin can also enjoy access to cultural attractions such as museums and music festivals. The state is known for its cheese and beer industries, as well as its strong healthcare system.

Top cities to consider for homebuyers in Wisconsin include:

• Milwaukee: The largest city in Wisconsin, Milwaukee has a growing real estate market and a vibrant downtown.
• Madison: The capital city of Wisconsin, Madison is home to the University of Wisconsin and offers a mix of college-town charm and cosmopolitan amenities.
• Green Bay: Located in northeastern Wisconsin, Green Bay is home to the Green Bay Packers and offers a variety of outdoor activities.

21. South Dakota – Home Value: $306,944

Renowned for its vast landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

South Dakota is a state celebrated for its expansive landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Homebuyers in South Dakota benefit from a relatively affordable cost of living, coupled with a strong sense of community. The state offers a plethora of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and exploring the iconic Mount Rushmore.

Top cities to consider for homebuyers in South Dakota include:

• Sioux Falls: As the largest city in the state, Sioux Falls boasts a growing economy and diverse housing options, making it an attractive choice for prospective homeowners.
• Rapid City: Nestled near the Black Hills, Rapid City combines natural beauty with a thriving arts scene, making it an appealing destination for those seeking a balanced lifestyle.
• Aberdeen: Known for its friendly atmosphere, Aberdeen provides a close-knit community feel, affordable housing, and proximity to outdoor recreational opportunities.

When considering buying a house in any of these states, there are a few things to keep in mind. While the cost of living and housing prices are generally lower in these states, it's important to consider factors like job opportunities, local amenities, and the quality of schools before making a decision. Additionally, the ZHVI can vary widely within a state, so it's important to research specific cities and neighborhoods to get a more accurate picture of the local housing market.