As home affordability continues to challenge buyers nationwide, there’s good news for those willing to look beyond the usual hotspots. Even with rising mortgage rates, several metros in the U.S. still offer the opportunity to own a home without overextending financially.

While some markets—like Los Angeles, San Jose, and New York City—remain notoriously out of reach for most households, cities like Pittsburgh, Akron, and Detroit are bucking the trend. These metros combine lower home prices with accessible income requirements, making homeownership a reality for more Americans.

The Least and Most Affordable Markets

According to Realtor.com®, the five least affordable cities in the U.S. include:

• Los Angeles, CA

• Oxnard, CA

• San Diego, CA

• San Jose, CA

• New York City, NY

In these metros, fewer than 30% of households can afford a home, reflecting high prices and steep income requirements.

On the flip side, these five markets stand out for their affordability:

1. Pittsburgh, PA

• Median list price: $244,000

• Households able to afford a median-priced home: 69.6%

• Income required: $58,697

2. Akron, OH

• Median list price: $228,200

• Households able to afford a median-priced home: 68.5%

• Income required: $55,732

3. Baltimore, MD

• Median list price: $369,995

• Households able to afford a median-priced home: 64.1%

• Income required: $83,000

4. Detroit, MI

• Median list price: $271,200

• Households able to afford a median-priced home: 62.6%

• Income required: $64,888

5. St. Louis, MO

• Median list price: $299,450

• Households able to afford a median-priced home: 62.4%

• Income required: $72,000

Spotlight: Akron, OH

Akron has become a magnet for first-time homebuyers, including many Gen Z buyers entering the market for the first time. With a median list price of just $228,200, 68.5% of households can afford a home in Akron. Additionally, the income required—$55,732—is among the lowest in the nation.

“It’s affordable in Akron, which makes a really big difference,” says Ali Whitley of Re/Max Crossroads. “Gen Z are becoming first-time homebuyers here. It’s a great place to buy in a great area for a reasonable price.”

Not only is Akron affordable, but it’s also gaining popularity. The city ranked No. 9 on the Realtor.com Hottest Housing Markets list in October, signaling growing interest from buyers.

The Big Picture: Why Affordability Matters

With many Americans struggling to afford homes in high-demand cities, these affordable metros provide a beacon of hope. For developers and investors, these markets present an opportunity to cater to the needs of buyers priced out of larger urban areas.

Key Takeaways for Investors

1. Undervalued Markets: Cities like Akron and Pittsburgh offer the chance to invest in areas with strong affordability metrics and growing demand.

2. Target First-Time Buyers: With Gen Z entering the market, developing affordable, entry-level housing could yield strong returns.

3. Long-Term Growth Potential: As affordability continues to be a priority for buyers, these metros could see steady appreciation over time.

Whether you’re a developer, investor, or a buyer searching for a place to call home, affordability will remain a driving force in real estate trends. These affordable metros are proving that homeownership is still achievable in America—if you know where to look.

What’s your take on these affordable markets? Are they ripe for investment, or do you see challenges ahead? Join the conversation below!