Evander Jones
By the time a city feels like the next big thing, prices have usually gone up. Smart buyers know it’s better to move before the hype starts. These 20 places are building real momentum. If you’re looking to get ahead of the curve, here’s where your search should begin.
Raleigh, North Carolina
Over the past decade, Raleigh has emerged as one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in America. The Research Triangle is home to a thriving tech scene, with over 600 startups operating in the region. Since 2012, median home values in Raleigh have more than doubled, according to Zillow’s latest housing reports.
Tampa, Florida
Tampa’s airport expansion helped increase flight capacity and tourist arrivals, supporting a 2023 visitor total that exceeded 26 million. With tourism booming, waterfront neighborhoods have experienced consistent increases in value. Local real estate trends indicate some of the highest appreciation rates in Florida, particularly in areas associated with redevelopment efforts.
Huntsville, Alabama
In 2022, U.S. News ranked Huntsville the #1 place to live in the United States. The city supports thousands of engineering and aerospace jobs through NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center and Redstone Arsenal. Despite demand, Huntsville’s housing prices remain under the national median, which leaves room for growth.
Boise, Idaho
Boise has become a magnet for West Coast migrants over the past decade, particularly remote workers seeking affordability. The city’s population grew by roughly 8% between 2015 and 2020. As demand increased, developers responded by launching new subdivisions on the city’s outskirts to meet the growing interest in single-family homes.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Carnegie Mellon’s research in AI and robotics attracts both talent and long-term investment. Compared to innovation hubs like Boston or Seattle, home prices remain far more accessible. Pittsburgh’s shift from steel to software has reshaped it into a thriving tech city with remarkable affordability for early buyers.
Greenville, South Carolina
BMW’s largest manufacturing plant outside Germany operates in Greer, near Greenville, and produces over 400,000 vehicles annually. The city has revitalized its downtown area, earning national praise for its walkability and charm. Steady appreciation and relatively low volatility have made Greenville a consistent performer in South Carolina’s real estate market.
Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix continues to attract new residents, with Maricopa County leading U.S. population growth in 2023. In response to ongoing water concerns, the city implemented conservation strategies. Updated zoning has paved the way for vertical housing and mixed-use projects, and is now attracting long-term investors to Arizona’s growing real estate market.
Grand Rapids, Michigan
Healthcare anchors Grand Rapids’ job market, with Corewell Health among the city’s largest employers. The city’s stability attracts families seeking long-term affordability and access to public services. In 2023, Grand Rapids was ranked as one of the best U.S. cities for raising a family by Rocket Homes.
Provo, Utah
With over 30% of its population under age 25, Provo is one of the youngest cities in the U.S. Brigham Young University fosters a steady talent pipeline that fuels regional tech growth. Utah County is expected to double its population by 2050, which will increase housing demand.
Charleston, South Carolina
The Port of Charleston handled a record number of containers in 2023, which strengthened its role in global trade. High-end buyers continue to seek homes in the city’s preserved historic neighborhoods. Tax credits and zoning protections help maintain property values while supporting Charleston’s long-term preservation goals.
Columbus, Ohio
Intel’s $20 billion semiconductor plant near Columbus is among the most significant private-sector investments in Ohio’s history. The city also serves as a logistics hub, with 47% of the U.S. population within a day’s drive. Suburban developments are rapidly expanding to meet the growing demand for housing.
Reno, Nevada
Many former Californians have moved to Reno, drawn by its affordability and proximity to the western U.S. tech corridor. Tesla’s nearby Gigafactory spans over 5.4 million square feet and continues to expand. Nevada’s lack of a state income tax also attracts corporations and high-earning individuals.
Wilmington, North Carolina
Since the 1980s, Wilmington has been a filming hub that attracts projects from HBO and other notable studios. Following Hurricane Florence in 2018, building standards became more stringent. The Cape Fear area remains a popular destination for buyers seeking retirement properties and second homes along the North Carolina coast.
Madison, Wisconsin
The University of Wisconsin and the state government contribute to Madison’s economic resilience and job security. The city leads the Midwest in green energy employment per capita. Home prices have climbed at a controlled pace and have managed to avoid the dramatic spikes and drops seen in more volatile housing markets.
Spokane, Washington
Spokane is frequently described as Washington’s last affordable metro. The city gained more than 25,000 new residents from 2010 to 2020. Surrounded by rivers and mountains, Spokane appeals to buyers seeking natural beauty and a cost of living that is significantly lower than that of Seattle.
Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas
Since 2020, more than 50 companies have relocated their headquarters or major offices to the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area. The region benefits from two major international airports and an expanding commuter rail system. With available land and low regulation, developers are building rapidly to meet strong housing demand.
Fayetteville, Arkansas
Cultural investments in art districts and biking trails have expanded quickly by adding character to Fayetteville’s growth. Northwest Arkansas is now one of the fastest-growing regions in the country. Once under the radar, the city has drawn attention due to its ties to Walmart and the University of Arkansas.
Des Moines, Iowa
Des Moines is home to major insurers, including Principal Financial and Nationwide. It has earned praise for housing market stability and its ability to withstand both the 2008 and 2020 downturns without severe drops. Investors continue to benefit from relatively low property taxes and consistent rental returns.
Colorado Springs, Colorado
In 2023, Colorado Springs ranked among the top U.S. cities for quality of life. Outdoor access to Pike’s Peak and the Garden of the Gods enhances daily living for residents. Military and aerospace institutions, such as NORAD and the U.S. Air Force Academy, support a strong economic base.
Chattanooga, Tennessee
Chattanooga was the first American city to offer citywide gigabit-speed internet, launched in 2010. That infrastructure attracted startups and tech investment, even as median home prices stayed below national averages. Its scenic surroundings and revitalized downtown also draw visitors and residents seeking a balance of innovation and nature.
