15 Cities for Affordable Dream Homes

In the wake of the pandemic, the real estate landscape in the United States has undergone a significant transformation. Americans, seeking larger spaces and the flexibility to work and exercise from the comfort of their homes, embarked on a housing spree. This surge in demand caused housing prices to skyrocket, creating a seller’s market like no other. However, as time has passed and interest rates have started to climb, this real estate frenzy has gradually lost its momentum in many cities. While home prices remain high compared to pre-pandemic levels, there are still pockets of affordability to be found. In this article, we’ll take you on a virtual tour of 15 cities where houses are currently some of the best bargains available in the market.

Midland, Texas – Where Growth Meets Affordability

Single Family Residence Home Value (Feb. 28, 2022): $273,766
Single Family Residence Home Value (Feb. 28, 2023): $276,294
February to February Growth in Home Value: $2,528
February to February Growth in Home Value (%): 0.92%

While the nation’s real estate market has seen growth in home values, Midland, Texas, stands out as a place where this growth is both steady and affordable. With a February to February growth rate of just 0.92%, Midland offers a sanctuary for homebuyers looking for stability.

Englewood, Ohio – Where Home Value Flourishes

Single Family Residence Home Value (Feb. 28, 2022): $185,479
Single Family Residence Home Value (Feb. 28, 2023): $193,457
February to February Growth in Home Value: $7,978
February to February Growth in Home Value (%): 4.30%

Englewood, Ohio, is a prime example of a city where home values are not only rising but doing so at an impressive rate. With a growth rate of 4.30% over the past year, it’s a city worth considering for those who want their investment to flourish.

Cicero, Illinois – Affordable Urban Living

Single Family Residence Home Value (Feb. 28, 2022): $222,638
Single Family Residence Home Value (Feb. 28, 2023): $225,208
February to February Growth in Home Value: $2,569
February to February Growth in Home Value (%): 1.15%

Cicero, Illinois, offers a unique blend of urban living and affordability. With a growth rate of 1.15%, it’s a city where you can enjoy the perks of city life without breaking the bank.

Hastings, Minnesota – Where Small Town Charm Meets Value

Single Family Residence Home Value (Feb. 28, 2022): $303,648
Single Family Residence Home Value (Feb. 28, 2023): $305,341
February to February Growth in Home Value: $1,693
February to February Growth in Home Value (%): 0.56%

Nestled in the heart of Minnesota, Hastings combines small-town charm with stable home values. The modest growth rate of 0.56% ensures that you can enjoy the tranquility of a small town without compromising on the value of your investment.

Swartz Creek, Michigan – Steady Growth in the Wolverine State

Single Family Residence Home Value (Feb. 28, 2022): $194,550
Single Family Residence Home Value (Feb. 28, 2023): $199,742
February to February Growth in Home Value: $5,192
February to February Growth in Home Value (%): 2.67%

Michigan’s Swartz Creek is a testament to steady growth in the Wolverine State. With a growth rate of 2.67%, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking a balance between affordability and value appreciation.

Brookings, South Dakota – Thriving in the Heartland

Single Family Residence Home Value (Feb. 28, 2022): $255,659
Single Family Residence Home Value (Feb. 28, 2023): $270,614
February to February Growth in Home Value: $14,955
February to February Growth in Home Value (%): 5.85%

For those looking for thriving real estate in the heartland of America, Brookings, South Dakota, is a shining example. With a growth rate of 5.85%, it’s a city that offers both value and growth potential.

Santa Fe, Texas – A Coastal Gem

Single Family Residence Home Value (Feb. 28, 2022): $280,134
Single Family Residence Home Value (Feb. 28, 2023): $285,385
February to February Growth in Home Value: $5,251
February to February Growth in Home Value (%): 1.87%

Nestled along the Texas coast, Santa Fe is a coastal gem with moderate growth. Its 1.87% growth rate ensures that you can enjoy the coastal lifestyle without paying a premium.

College Park, Georgia – Affordable Living Near Atlanta

Single Family Residence Home Value (Feb. 28, 2022): $279,291
Single Family Residence Home Value (Feb. 28, 2023): $295,733
February to February Growth in Home Value: $16,442
February to February Growth in Home Value (%): 5.89%

College Park, Georgia, offers a slice of affordable living near the bustling city of Atlanta. With a growth rate of 5.89%, it’s an ideal destination for those seeking proximity to urban amenities without the urban price tag.

Columbus, Nebraska – The Heart of the Plains

Single Family Residence Home Value (Feb. 28, 2022): $222,858
Single Family Residence Home Value (Feb. 28, 2023): $231,881
February to February Growth in Home Value: $9,023
February to February Growth in Home Value (%): 4.05%

Columbus, Nebraska, lies in the heart of the Great Plains, offering affordability with a growth rate of 4.05%. It’s a city where you can experience the heartland of America without sacrificing your budget.

Jefferson, Wisconsin – A Gem in the Badger State

Single Family Residence Home Value (Feb. 28, 2022): $239,858
Single Family Residence Home Value (Feb. 28, 2023): $246,463
February to February Growth in Home Value: $6,606
February to February Growth in Home Value (%): 2.75%

Jefferson, Wisconsin, is a hidden gem in the Badger State, offering both affordability and a growth rate of 2.75%. It’s a city where you can enjoy a serene lifestyle while watching your investment grow.

Forest Park, Ohio – A Suburban Oasis

Single Family Residence Home Value (Feb. 28, 2022): $187,103
Single Family Residence Home Value (Feb. 28, 2023): $195,889
February to February Growth in Home Value: $8,787
February to February Growth in Home Value (%): 4.70%

Forest Park, Ohio, is a suburban oasis with a growth rate of 4.70%. It’s the perfect place for those who crave suburban tranquility without compromising on investment potential.

LaPlace, Louisiana – A Price Retreat

Single Family Residence Home Value (Feb. 28, 2022): $181,298
Single Family Residence Home Value (Feb. 28, 2023): $171,899
February to February Growth in Home Value: -$9,398
February to February Growth in Home Value (%): -5.18%

LaPlace, Louisiana, offers a unique scenario where home values have experienced a retreat over the past year, making it a city where prices are more accessible than ever before.

Louisville, Ohio – The Gem of the Buckeye State

Single Family Residence Home Value (Feb. 28, 2022): $187,433
Single Family Residence Home Value (Feb. 28, 2023): $196,601
February to February Growth in Home Value: $9,168
February to February Growth in Home Value (%): 4.89%

Louisville, Ohio, shines as the gem of the Buckeye State. With a growth rate of 4.89%, it’s a city that offers both value and potential for your investment.

Portland, Tennessee – Thriving in the Volunteer State

Single Family Residence Home Value (Feb. 28, 2022): $263,102
Single Family Residence Home Value (Feb. 28, 2023): $276,831
February to February Growth in Home Value: $13,729
February to February Growth in Home Value (%): 5.22%

Nestled in the Volunteer State, Portland, Tennessee, is a city that is thriving with a growth rate of 5.22%. It’s a place where your investment can flourish alongside the vibrant local community.

Plymouth, Wisconsin – The Wisconsin Gem

Single Family Residence Home Value (Feb. 28, 2022): $236,034
Single Family Residence Home Value (Feb. 28, 2023): $247,364
February to February Growth in Home Value: $11,330
February to February Growth in Home Value (%): 4.80%

Plymouth, Wisconsin, shines as a gem in the Badger State. With a growth rate of 4.80%, it’s a city where your investment can thrive while you enjoy the beauty of Wisconsin.

In conclusion, these 15 cities offer a diverse range of opportunities for homebuyers and investors alike. Whether you’re seeking steady growth, affordability, or a combination of both, these cities provide a chance to secure a property that fits your budget and long-term goals. As the real estate market continues to evolve, these cities stand out as some of the best bargains available right now.