Want a quick way to build wealth? Buying in a hot housing market is one of the best ways to increase your investment fast. But there's a careful balance required to actually make money in a trendy city. You have to strike while the iron's hot, knowing that a big boom is probably on the way — but you can't wait until it's too hot because then the moment to make a significant profit is gone.
So, how do you know where to invest? Realtor.com has ranked the hottest housing markets according to price growth and demand. These markets are growing rapidly, but there's likely still room to get in before prices truly take off.
Start planning your strategy because these are the 11 trendiest hotting markets in the U.S. right now.
Steal this billionaire wealth-building technique
The ultra-rich have also been investing in art from big names like Picasso and Bansky for centuries. And it's for a good reason: Contemporary art prices have outpaced the S&P 500 by 136% over the last 27 years.
A new company called Masterworks is now allowing everyday investors to get in on this type of previously-exclusive investment. You can buy a small slice of $1-$30 million paintings from iconic artists, all without needing any art expertise.
If you have at least $10k to invest and are ready to explore diversifying beyond stocks and bonds,see what Masterworks has on offer. (Hurry, they often sell out!)
Rockford, Illinois
![rock river view](https://cdn.financebuzz.com/filters:quality(75)/images/2024/07/08/rock-river-view-adobe.jpg)
Median days on market: 43
Median listing price: $242,000
While Rockford has been hanging out in the top five hottest housing markets for the past seven months, this is its first time claiming the top spot. This Chicago suburb saw prices skyrocket 21.3% year-over-year, probably due to its popularity as a place where you can find affordability and access to big city amenities.
Known as the City of Gardens, it's a place where you'll find history, a vibrant downtown, and even a minor-league hockey team. As people look for budget-friendly alternatives to major metropolitan areas, Rockford is poised to continue its rise.
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Manchester-Nashua, New Hampshire
![Skyline on the Merrimack River](https://cdn.financebuzz.com/filters:quality(75)/images/2025/01/31/skyline-on-the-merrimack-river-adobe.jpg)
Median days on market: 48
Median listing price: $557,000
For buyers looking for a primary residence investment, you can't beat house hunting in a place with no state sales tax or state income tax! This area is known as a financial hub in New England, and multiple Fortune 500 companies have presences here, meaning it's positioned to bring in more investment and buyers in the coming years.
There's also a great art scene and access to winter spots, so there's a draw for newcomers looking for a culturally rich or active way of life.
Hartford-West Hartford-East Hartford, Connecticut
![hartford connecticut usa](https://cdn.financebuzz.com/filters:quality(75)/images/2024/03/25/hartford-connecticut-usa.jpg)
Median days on market: 49
Median listing price: $400,000
Looking to invest somewhere with historic architecture and old houses? Come to Hartford, where you can buy a home in one of the oldest cities in America that also happens to be one of the fastest growing. There's a vibrant business district that houses historic sites next to trendy restaurants, and residents love venturing out to state parks and mountains nearby.
There are both urban, walkable neighborhoods as well as bustling suburbs in the Hartford area so you can choose the way of life that appeals to you.
Get a free stock valued between $5 to $200
Secret: You don't need thousands of dollars to buy thousand-dollar stocks or create a diverse portfolio.
Robinhood offers a method of investing called “fractional shares.” On its own, one share of a single stock could cost a lot of money, making it difficult to diversify. Robinhood allows you to buy pieces of stock instead, so you have the option to build a diverse portfolio quickly.
Let’s say you want to invest $250, as an example.
With that amount, you could build a relatively diverse portfolio with an investment of $50 in a big tech stock, $50 in a retail stock, $50 in an energy stock, $50 in a manufacturing stock, and $50 in a bank.1 <p>This content is for informational purposes only, you should not construe any such information as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice. </p> <p>To get stock reward, new customers need to sign up, get approved, and link their bank account. Stock rewards shares cannot be sold until 3 trading days after the reward is granted and the cash value of the stock rewards may not be withdrawn for 30 days after the reward is claimed. Stock rewards not claimed within 60 days may expire. See full terms and conditions at <a href="https://robinhood.com/us/en/support/articles/open-account-pick-your-stock/">rbnhd.co/freestock</a>.</p> <p>Fractional shares are illiquid outside of Robinhood and are not transferable. Not all securities available through Robinhood are eligible for fractional share orders. For a complete explanation of conditions, restrictions and limitations associated with fractional shares, see the Fractional Shares section of our Customer Agreement.</p> Robinhood Gold is offered through Robinhood Financial LLC and is a membership offering premium services available for a fee.</p>
Even better news? Add a Robinhood Gold membership, and you’ll get access to 4.25% (as of 11/15/24) APY2 <p>Annual Percentage Yield. Rate valid as of April 12, 2024. To earn interest, a cash balance is needed. If you have a margin balance, there is no cash balance to earn interest. Interest rates for cash sweep and margin investing can change at any time. Fees may reduce interest earnings.</p> on your uninvested cash3 <p>Interest is earned on uninvested cash swept from your brokerage account to partner banks. Partner banks pay interest on your swept cash, minus any fees paid to Robinhood. As of Nov 15, 2023, the Annual Percentage Yield (APY) that you will receive is 1.5%, or 5% for Gold customers. The APY might change at any time at the partner banks' or Robinhood's discretion. Additionally, any fees Robinhood receives may vary and are subject to change. Neither Robinhood Financial LLC nor any of its affiliates are banks.</p> <p>All investments involve risk and loss of principal is possible.</p> <p>Robinhood Financial LLC (member SIPC), is a registered broker dealer.</p> and the ability to buy and sell stocks 24 hours a day, 5 days a week.
Open and fund a Robinhood account and earn up to $200 in stock
Lancaster, Pennsylvania
![historic downtown Lancaster, Pennsylvania](https://cdn.financebuzz.com/filters:quality(75)/images/2023/08/01/historic_downtown_lancaster_pennsylvania.jpg)
Median days on market: 45
Median listing price: $415,000
Lancaster has long been known as home to a significant Amish population, and it also happens to be one of the most picturesque areas in Pennsylvania. There are beautiful rural areas, welcoming suburban areas, and a city that has everything from coffee shops to restaurants.
You can invest in the area that feels right to you, whether that's buying a historic home in the country or a unit right in town.
Reading, Pennsylvania
![View of buildings in downtown Reading, Pennsylvania](https://cdn.financebuzz.com/filters:quality(75)/images/2025/01/31/buildings-in-downtown-reading-pennsylvania-adobe.jpg)
Median days on market: 43
Median listing price: $330,000
Reading is an area rich in history, from the Reading Railroad to the Allegheny Aqueduct to the manufacturing that led to the city's rise in the 1800s. But today, it's seeing a resurgence, and newcomers are excited to move here thanks to its affordable cost of living.
You have a convenient location to the big city amenities and culture of Philadelphia, yet you get to enjoy a city where it's possible to buy a home for a more budget-friendly price.
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Worcester, Massachusetts
![Worcester Massachusetts on a cloudy day](https://cdn.financebuzz.com/filters:quality(75)/images/2022/11/14/worcester_massachusetts_on_a_cloudy_day.jpg)
Median days on market: 49
Median listing price: $500,000
The rolling hills of Worcester are becoming a popular place for home buyers to invest thanks to both its affordable pricing and desirable quality of life.
Just an hour and a half from Boston, this area is known for parks, colleges and universities, restaurants, entertainment venues, and music. It's a vibrant area with a buzzy downtown and quiet suburbs, as well as historic homes that are perfect for investors looking for a project.
Springfield, Massachusetts
![Springfield, Massachusetts, USA downtown skyline](https://cdn.financebuzz.com/filters:quality(75)/images/2023/08/09/springfield_massachusetts_usa_downtown_skyline.jpg)
Median days on market: 51
Median listing price: $365,000
Find a place in the heart of it all in Springfield, which is 90 minutes from Boston, a half hour from Hartford, Connecticut, and a quick three hours over to New York City.
While you'll have proximity to all of these Northeast big cities and there are several large companies located in Springfield, you're also just a stone's throw to an outdoor paradise in the Pioneer Valley.
Providence, Rhode Island
![downtown Providence River in Rhode Island](https://cdn.financebuzz.com/filters:quality(75)/images/2024/12/27/downtown-providence-river-in-rhode-island-.jpeg)
Median days on market: 49
Median listing price: $525,000
Providence is a quintessential New England city, with a walkable downtown, cultural diversity, and a fabulous food scene. Both Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design are located here, which adds to the culture and brings in young people who decide to stay in the city. Looking for a spot with both urban amenities and charming beaches? Providence is your place.
Racine, Wisconsin
![Wind Point Lighthouse in Racine Wisconsin](https://cdn.financebuzz.com/filters:quality(75)/images/2025/01/31/wind-point-lighthouse-adobe.jpg)
Median days on market: 47
Median listing price: $334,000
The Great Lakes are a great place to invest in real estate, particularly as people realize they can find stunning beaches right in the Midwest. Racine is on Lake Michigan, and it's within quick driving distance to Chicago, Milwaukee, and Madison.
Here, you'll find the Racine Art Museum, stunning North Beach, as well as multiple entertainment venues for both theater and music.
Earn up to a $300 bonus and grow your money with up to 3.80% APY
This powerful combination checking + savings account from SoFi® allows you to earn up to a $300 bonus with direct deposit and grow your money with up to 3.80% APY.4 <p>New and existing Checking and Savings members who have not previously enrolled in Direct Deposit with SoFi are eligible to earn a cash bonus of either $50 (with at least $1,000 total Direct Deposits received during the Direct Deposit Bonus Period) <b>OR</b> $300 (with at least $5,000 total Direct Deposits received during the Direct Deposit Bonus Period). Cash bonus will be based on the total amount of Direct Deposit. Direct Deposit Promotion begins on 12/7/2023 and will be available through 1/31/2026. See full bonus and annual percentage yield (APY) terms at <a href="http://www.sofi.com/banking#1">sofi.com/banking#1</a>. SoFi Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A., Member FDIC.</p> <p>SoFi members who enroll in SoFi Plus with Direct Deposit or by paying the SoFi Plus Subscription Fee every 30 days or with $5,000 or more in Qualifying Deposits during the 30-Day Evaluation Period can earn 3.80% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. There is no minimum Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. Members without either SoFi Plus or Qualifying Deposits, during the 30-Day Evaluation Period will earn 1.00% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Only SoFi Plus members are eligible for other SoFi Plus benefits. Interest rates are variable and subject to change at any time. These rates are current as of Jan. 24, 2025. There is no minimum balance requirement. Additional information can be found at <a href="http://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet">http://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet</a>. See the SoFi Plus Terms and Conditions at <a href="https://www.sofi.com/terms-of-use/#plus">https://www.sofi.com/terms-of-use/#plus</a>.</p>
This is one of the top accounts we’ve seen, and offers like this can be rare. You work hard, and now it’s time to make your money work for you — with SoFi, you can grow your money with hardly any effort!
SoFi has no account or overdraft fees5 <p>Overdraft Coverage is limited to $50 on debit card purchases only and is an account benefit available to customers with direct deposits of $1,000 or more during the current 30-day Evaluation Period as determined by SoFi Bank, N.A. The 30-Day Evaluation Period refers to the "Start Date" and "End Date" set forth on the APY Details page of your account, which comprises a period of 30 calendar days (the "30-Day Evaluation Period"). You can access the APY Details page at any time by logging into your SoFi account on the SoFi mobile app or SoFi website and selecting either (i) Banking > Savings > Current APY or (ii) Banking > Checking > Current APY. Members with a prior history of non-repayment of negative balances are ineligible for Overdraft Coverage.<br></p> and additional FDIC insurance up to $2 million on deposits is available through a seamless network of participating banks.6 <p>We do not charge any account, service or maintenance fees for SoFi Checking and Savings. We do charge a transaction fee to process each outgoing wire transfer. SoFi does not charge a fee for incoming wire transfers, however the sending bank may charge a fee. Our fee policy is subject to change at any time. See the SoFi Checking & Savings Fee Sheet for details at <a href="http://sofi.com/legal/banking-fees/">sofi.com/legal/banking-fees/</a></p> 7 <p><b>SoFi Bank is a member FDIC and does not provide more than $250,000 of FDIC insurance per legal category of account ownership, as described in the FDIC’s regulations. Any additional FDIC insurance is provided by the SoFi Insured Deposit Program. Deposits may be insured up to $2M through participation in the program. See full terms at <a href="http://sofi.com/banking/fdic/terms">SoFi.com/banking/fdic/terms</a> See list of participating banks at <a href="http://sofi.com/banking/fdic/receivingbanks">SoFi.com/banking/fdic/receivingbanks</a></b></p> Plus, you can receive your paycheck up to 2 days early.8 <p>Early access to direct deposit funds is based on the timing in which we receive notice of impending payment from the Federal Reserve, which is typically up to two days before the scheduled payment date, but may vary.</p>
How to earn up to $300: Sign up and make a direct deposit within the first 25 calendar days of the promotional period, then collect a $300 cash bonus with a direct deposit of $5,000 or more.
SoFi is a Member, FDIC. 7 <p><b>SoFi Bank is a member FDIC and does not provide more than $250,000 of FDIC insurance per legal category of account ownership, as described in the FDIC’s regulations. Any additional FDIC insurance is provided by the SoFi Insured Deposit Program. Deposits may be insured up to $2M through participation in the program. See full terms at <a href="http://sofi.com/banking/fdic/terms">SoFi.com/banking/fdic/terms</a> See list of participating banks at <a href="http://sofi.com/banking/fdic/receivingbanks">SoFi.com/banking/fdic/receivingbanks</a></b></p>
Open your SoFi account and set up direct deposit
Oshkosh-Neenah, Wisconsin
![bray's point lighthouse](https://cdn.financebuzz.com/filters:quality(75)/images/2024/11/27/brays_point_lighthouse.jpg)
Median days on market: 51
Median listing price: $300,000
Want to live near the water? Buy in rapidly growing Oshkosh-Neenah, where you'll find Lake Winnebago, the Fox River, and Lake Butte de Morts, all within a short distance.
This affordable Midwestern city is also known for a busy annual event festival as well as cultural institutions like the Grand Opera House and the Paine Art Center and Garden.
Milwaukee-Waukesha-West Allis, Wisconsin
![milwaukee wisconsin](https://cdn.financebuzz.com/filters:quality(75)/images/2024/09/09/milwaukee_wisconsin.jpg)
Median days on market: 45
Median listing price: $357,000
Want a big city vibe with an affordable price tag? Milwaukee is rapidly experiencing a resurgence, and the downtown skyline is changing with every new day.
From nightlife to breweries to restaurants, music, and more, this is a popular region for buyers looking to get in early in a city that's seeing major development. Plus, there's impressive architecture for those eager to find their own piece of history.
Bottom line
![couple moving into a new modern house](https://cdn.financebuzz.com/filters:quality(75)/images/2022/10/12/couple_moving_into_a_new_modern_house.jpg)
One of the advantages of buying into a trending housing market is the skyrocketing value that can happen if you buy at just the right time. This is a huge bonus when you either go to sell or undergo a large renovation where you need to tap into home equity. You'll find the significant increase in value gives you more buying power on the other end or more wiggle room in renovating your house exactly to your specifications.
Ark7 - Real Estate Investing Benefits
- Invest in cash-flow-generating, professionally managed rental properties without having to buy the whole property
- Sell shares at will at no cost
- 3% sourcing fee and 8-15% monthly management fee
- $20 minimum investment
- Ark7 investors have earned 5%+ annualized distributions from monthly income alone9 <p>The 5%+ return is the portfolio average and is based on figures since Q4 2022.</p>
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