10 U.S. Cities Where Starter Homes Are Still Affordable

Home prices remain elevated across much of the United States, and mortgage rates are still hovering above 6%. For many buyers, especially those entering the housing market for the first time, affordability remains a major challenge.

However, some cities still offer relatively affordable starter homes compared with major coastal markets. Using housing price data and market conditions, researchers identified several locations where first-time buyers may still find attainable housing options.

Home prices across much of the United States remain high, with mortgage rates still above 6%. However, some markets remain relatively affordable for first-time buyers looking to enter the housing market.

Researchers analyzed thousands of communities across major metro areas to identify cities where housing affordability remains relatively strong. Factors included home prices, housing availability, economic health, and housing outlook.

The median listing price for homes in Rochester, New York is approximately $139,900. Cities like this continue to attract attention from first-time buyers looking for lower housing costs compared to major coastal markets.

The median listing price for homes in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania is approximately $151,999. Cities like this continue to attract attention from first-time buyers looking for lower housing costs compared to major coastal markets.

The median listing price for homes in Granite City, Illinois is approximately $119,000. Cities like this continue to attract attention from first-time buyers looking for lower housing costs compared to major coastal markets.

The median listing price for homes in Birmingham, Alabama is approximately $148,950. Cities like this continue to attract attention from first-time buyers looking for lower housing costs compared to major coastal markets.

The median listing price for homes in North Little Rock, Arkansas is approximately $170,000. Cities like this continue to attract attention from first-time buyers looking for lower housing costs compared to major coastal markets.

The median listing price for homes in Syracuse, New York is approximately $169,900. Cities like this continue to attract attention from first-time buyers looking for lower housing costs compared to major coastal markets.

The median listing price for homes in Baltimore, Maryland is approximately $223,900. Cities like this continue to attract attention from first-time buyers looking for lower housing costs compared to major coastal markets.

The median listing price for homes in St. Louis Park, Minnesota is approximately $375,000. Cities like this continue to attract attention from first-time buyers looking for lower housing costs compared to major coastal markets.

The median listing price for homes in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania is approximately $249,000. Cities like this continue to attract attention from first-time buyers looking for lower housing costs compared to major coastal markets.

The median listing price for homes in Garfield Heights, Ohio is approximately $140,000. Cities like this continue to attract attention from first-time buyers looking for lower housing costs compared to major coastal markets.