The Top 10 Emerging Real Estate Markets Right Now

Over the past few years, the housing market has been a story of haves and have-nots.

Those who already own a home are in a good place, as the recent rise in values ​​has left them flush with equity. But millions of renters have been deprived of prices for owning a home. Many wonder if they will ever be able to afford their share of the American dream.

Fortunately, the answer is “yes”, especially for those who want to move to a more affordable location.

Recently, The Wall Street Journal and Realtor.com joined forces to publish their Emerging Markets Housing Index for summer 2022.

The index singles out some of the best cities for those looking for great communities with a bright future. Many of the markets on the list offer a “critical dose of affordable housing,” the report said.

Other markets that made the top 10 have higher priced homes, but are still “good places to buy a home for owners and investors, with price appreciation expectations complementing vibrant communities and diverse,” according to the report.

Here are the top emerging real estate markets in the United States

10. Visalia-Porterville, CA

Average home price in June: $415,995

Population: 468 680

This inland region of California has it all: living in the city near Sequoia National Park.

A few years ago we noted that Visalia-Porterville was among the happiest communities in the United States

9. Topeka, Kansas

Average home price in June: $225,000

Population: 230 878

If you’re looking for affordability, don’t overlook Topeka: it recently compiled a list of the “10 Cheapest Places to Buy a Home in America.”

8. North Port-Sarasota-Bradenton, Florida

Average home price in June: $598,500

Population: 854 684

Older home buyers may want to take a look at this area of ​​Florida. The Gulf Coast region made the list of “25 Best Cities to Retire in Florida.” Just beware that the price here is higher than many other places on the list.

7. Rapid City, South Dakota

Average home price in June: $409,900

Population: 144 514

If you’re thinking of moving to Rapid City, don’t wait: the city is #1 on the list of “10 Small Housing Markets That Are Hot Now,” so competition for housing here is rapidly heating up. .

6. Raleigh, North Carolina

Average home price in June: $499,950

Population: 1.42 million

This state capital is the largest city on the list. Raleigh would be a great choice for someone who wants to live downtown in a more digestible portion of the big metros.

5. Billings, Montana

Average home price in June: $544,000

Population: 183 799

Seniors on the go should consider Billings, home to Montana State University. Those who are 65 or older can get a tuition waiver when taking courses.

4.Fort Wayne, Indiana

Average home price in June: $286,400

Population: 416 565

In a sea of ​​overpriced real estate markets, Fort Wayne is an island of affordability. It finished #1 on the “10 Best Cities to Buy an Affordable Family Home” list.

3. Johnson City, TN

Average home price in June: $350,000

Population: 204 540

If you love hiking and great scenery, Johnson City might be calling your name. It is located just west of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

2. Burlington, North Carolina

Average home price in June: $380,150

Population: 171 346

If Raleigh is too big for your tastes, another nearby North Carolina city – Burlington – might be a great option. The city is home to Laboratory Corporation of America, one of the largest biomedical testing companies in the world.

1. Elkhart-Goshen, Indiana

Average home price in June: $279,450

Population: 206 161

Just a few years ago, we pointed out that Elkhart had one of the fastest job growth rates in the United States. The vast majority of recreational vehicles in the country are manufactured here.

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