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The 12 Most Affordable Housing Markets if You Don’t Want to Be House Poor

You can still buy a home for a bargain price compared to what you would pay in more expensive metros.

By Jenny Cohen

Edited by Chris Kissell

Updated April 1, 2025

In many metros, housing prices have climbed so high that some buyers can't afford to purchase a home. But other cities offer better options for those searching for affordable prices.

Real estate website Zillow says a typical household can spend less than 30% of its budget on housing in the following cities. If you're willing to relocate, these are great places to buy a home and still have enough extra cash to get ahead financially.

The typical mortgage payment in these housing markets consumes less than a third of the median household monthly income. Here are the top 12 that share the most affordable listings.

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Minnieapoles, MN

minneapolis downtown skyline in minnesota

Share of affordable listings: 50%

Minneapolis, situated along the Mississippi River, combines affordable housing with a thriving arts and culture scene. The city's beautiful parks, strong job market, and diverse neighborhoods make it an appealing choice for many.

With its vibrant atmosphere and high quality of life, Minneapolis offers a refreshing urban experience. House prices average $371,247.

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Kansas City, MO

Share of affordable listings: 50%

Kansas City, located at the crossroads of the U.S., offers affordable housing paired with a growing cultural and food scene. Known for its jazz history and delicious BBQ, the city has revitalized its neighborhoods while keeping costs low.

With a friendly community and a wealth of opportunities, Kansas City is a city on the rise. House prices average $301,108.

Philadelphia, PA

Share of affordable listings: 51%

Philadelphia, rich in history and culture, offers surprisingly affordable housing for a major East Coast city. With its vibrant neighborhoods, thriving arts scene, and strong job market, it's a city full of opportunity.

Philadelphia's mix of modern amenities and historic charm makes it a standout choice for those looking to settle down. The price of houses averages $363,119.

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Cincinnati, Ohio

Share of affordable listings: 53%

Cincinnati stands out for its affordable housing and strong sense of community. The city offers a blend of historic neighborhoods, a vibrant arts scene, and plenty of job opportunities.

With its unique charm and growth potential, Cincinnati remains an attractive option for many. House prices average $284,440.

Birmingham, AL

University of Alabama at Birmingham campus

Share of affordable listings: 54%

Affordable housing with Southern charm. Once an industrial powerhouse, the city has revitalized its neighborhoods while keeping living costs low.

With a rich history, a vibrant food scene, and a welcoming community, Birmingham is an easy place to call home. House prices average $249,614.

Cleveland, Ohio

Share of affordable listings: 56%

Cleveland is the second Ohio city to earn a place on Zillow's top 12 list. Located on the shores of Lake Erie in northern Ohio, it is one of the country's most affordable housing markets. The city blends historic charm with a growing food, arts, and sports scene.

With revitalized neighborhoods and a low cost of living, Cleveland offers an inviting place to call home. The average price of a home here is $229,993.

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Baltimore, MD

Baltimore Maryland Inner Harbor Drone Skyline

Share of affordable listings: 56%

Baltimore, nestled along Maryland's Chesapeake Bay, offers surprisingly affordable housing for an East Coast city. Its historic charm, waterfront views, and growing arts scene make it an appealing place to live.

With revitalized neighborhoods and a strong sense of community, Baltimore blends affordability with character. The average price of a home here is $385,414.

Indianapolis, IN

Share of affordable listings: 60%

Affordable and full of opportunity, Indianapolis offers a balance of city living and Midwestern charm. Nestled in the heart of Indiana, it boasts a low cost of living and a strong job market.

With vibrant neighborhoods and a deep love for sports, it's an easy place to call home. The average price of a home here is $278,883.

Detroit, Michigan

Share of affordable listings: 60%

The Motor City has seen an increase in investment, with major projects in its downtown corridor. This included the redevelopment of Michigan Central Station.

That could be a good sign for potential residents who plan to move to the city in hopes of finding an affordable home. Prices can vary from neighborhood to neighborhood, but the average in the city is $253,314.

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Buffalo, New York

Share of affordable listings: 63%

located in western New York near Lake Erie, is one of the state's most affordable housing markets. Once an industrial hub, the city has revitalized its neighborhoods while keeping homeownership accessible.

With historic charm and a growing cultural scene, Buffalo offers an inviting place to call home, which could make the city more enticing to those looking to relocate. Housing prices stand at $265,157.

St. Louis, Missouri

Share of affordable listings: 64%

If you move to St. Louis, you can check out the Gateway Arch or head out to a baseball game at Busch Stadium.

The city on the banks of the Mississippi River could be a good option if you're looking for affordable housing. The average price of a home here is $215,661.

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Share of affordable listings: 73%

If you live in the city that the late PBS television star Fred Rogers called home, it could be a beautiful day in the neighborhood.

Pittsburgh topped the list of affordable housing markets, according to Zillow. The average Pittsburgh home is valued at $225,618, compared to the national average of $357,138.

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Bottom line

High housing prices can be intimidating if you're trying to buy your first home and need help paying your mortgage. But there are cities where it's easier to afford a home.

A smart homeowner move is relocating to a city on this list that allows you to really stretch your dollars.

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