Here are the 3 Most ‘Affordable’ Cities to Buy a House in the US — Plus Why They Stand Out
In today’s real estate market, where home prices and mortgage rates are persistently high, the dream of finding an affordable place to buy a home feels increasingly elusive for many Americans. The national median home price hit $419,000 in early 2025, pricing out numerous potential buyers. With mortgage rates near 7%, even modest homes can lead to significant monthly payments.
A recent study has identified the most and least affordable cities for homebuyers, taking into account more than just listing prices. This ranking of 300 cities considers 10 key affordability metrics, including home-price-to-income ratios, rent-to-buy comparisons, property taxes, insurance costs, vacancy rates, and housing availability.
Let’s dive into the three cities that stand out for overall affordability and explore why these locations are catching buyers’ attention despite the challenging housing market.
1. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Pittsburgh ranks third on the list for overall affordability, but not solely because of its home prices. This city offers a well-rounded balance of income potential, housing inventory, and ownership value. Homes here may cost more than some other places, but Pittsburgh’s strong fundamentals ensure it’s still a top pick for homebuyers.
One of Pittsburgh’s standout features is its excellent rent-to-buy ratio, indicating that purchasing a home often makes better financial sense than renting. The median home price is just 3.8 times the city’s average household income, which is seen as a sustainable benchmark for affordability. Additionally, Pittsburgh ranks 14th in housing availability, providing buyers with more options than many other metropolitan areas. Combined with a stable economy, a robust job market, and high livability, Pittsburgh presents as the most balanced city within the top three affordable places.
2. Detroit, Michigan
Detroit takes second place in terms of affordability, primarily due to its very low home prices compared to local income levels. It showcases the second-lowest price-to-income ratio in the nation. With a median price per square foot of just $87, many homes are listed below six figures, making it one of the few large cities in the U.S. where homeownership is financially attainable for a broader audience.
Detroit’s unique affordability advantage not only stems from its low housing costs but also from its potential for investment, as the city continues to regenerate and grow. This positions Detroit as an attractive choice for those looking to own a home without overwhelming financial strain.
Conclusion
The housing landscape in the United States can be daunting, especially with current market pressures. However, cities like Pittsburgh and Detroit illustrate that affordable homeownership is still possible if you know where to look. These cities offer distinct opportunities that go beyond just low prices, emphasizing sustainable income ratios, availability of housing options, and overall economic stability. For prospective buyers, understanding these dynamics is key to making informed, strategic decisions about buying a home.
While affordability criteria can vary, the cities highlighted here provide a beacon of hope for those seeking to fulfill their homeownership dreams without undue financial burden.
