15 Hottest Housing Markets in the U.S. for 2024

Move over, Los Angeles. The hottest real estate markets in the U.S. aren't where you'd think they would be.

Thanks to inflation and unaffordable housing trends, places like New York, Los Angeles and San Francisco are not hotspots for families and new homebuyers. In fact, the entire West Coast has proven itself to be out of reach for the lower and middle class.

As the new year begins, the hottest real estate markets in the U.S., according to a November 2023 report from Realtor.com, are in places you may not expect but are nonetheless worth checking out.

15. Norwich-New London, Connecticut

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Median days on market: 42

Median listing price: $460,000

* Housing market data comes from a 2023 Realtor.com report.

Bottom Line: Norwich-New London, Connecticut

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Norwich-New London is home to several industries that contribute to the region’s economy. Manufacturing in aerospace and defense, healthcare and the maritime industry are just some of the sectors offering employment in this now-hot locale.

The area offers a blend of scenic beauty and historic charm. Nestled in the southeastern part of the state, the region boasts picturesque landscapes and is a short drive to Long Island Sound.

14. Dayton, Ohio

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Median days on market: 38

Median listing price: $225,000

Bottom Line: Dayton, Ohio

The Wright Brothers Cycle shop in Dayton Ohio

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If you wish to make Dayton your home and you work in aerospace, defense, education and healthcare, you’re in luck, as you’ll find plenty of jobs in these industries.

Dayton is home to several historic neighborhoods and districts with recreational activities galore. This city has become a popular destination for families moving from bigger metro areas.

13. Racine, Wisconsin

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Median days on market: 35

Median listing price: $341,000

Bottom Line: Racine, Wisconsin

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Racine is Wisconsin’s only entry on the list, but it’s certainly no slouch. The city, located on the shores of Lake Michigan, offers a blend of charm, economic opportunity and a welcoming community.

The city’s diverse economic landscape — driven by manufacturing, agriculture, technology and healthcare sectors — ensures ample job opportunities. And the cost of living and homes are below the national average.

12. Akron, Ohio

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Median days on market: 38

Median listing price: $215,000

Bottom Line: Akron, Ohio

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Akron is one of those Rust Belt cities that saw hard times in the 1980s and ’90s (The Pretenders’ Chrissie Hynde, an Akron native, once sang, “I went back to Ohio, and my city was gone”) — but it is again on the upswing.

Homes here are about $100,000 cheaper than the national average. The city is known as the “Rubber Capital of the World,” as rubber and tire manufacturing are big here, with Goodyear being one of Akron’s largest employers. Healthcare, education and technology also contribute significantly to Akron’s economy.

11. Lancaster, Pennsylvania

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Median days on market: 34

Median listing price: $400,000

Bottom Line: Lancaster, Pennsylvania

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Located in Pennsylvania Dutch Country, Lancaster is a culturally rich area with economic opportunities in healthcare, tourism (travelers do come here) and manufacturing, all of which drive its stable economy.

The city’s location allows for convenient access to major metros like Philadelphia and Baltimore. While its home prices are a little over the national average, Lancaster stands out as an appealing place to call home.

10. Columbus, Ohio

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Median days on market: 38

Median listing price: $360,000

Bottom Line: Columbus, Ohio

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This cost of living in Ohio’s capital city is far less than in most major metros, and homes are less than the national average.

Columbus is a small city with a big-city feel. Its stable economy is driven by six Fortune 500 companies — Cardinal Health, American Electric Power, L Brands, Nationwide, Alliance Data and Huntington Bancshares — as well as Ohio State University, one of the city’s largest employers.

9. Providence-Warwick, R.I.-Mass.

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Median days on market: 36

Median listing price: $527,000

Bottom Line: Providence-Warwick, R.I.-Mass.

Pawtuxet Village in the cities of Warwick and Cranston

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While home prices are admittedly high in the Providence-Warwick area, it’s still a hotspot for new homebuyers who long for both urban amenities and coastal charm.

Providence-Warwick boasts a robust economy with opportunities in the education, healthcare and technology sectors. Its proximity to the picturesque coastline offers scenic views, and there are plenty of outdoor activities for the entire family. Expect the area to blow up with tourists in the warmer months!

8. Concord, New Hampshire

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Median days on market: 39

Median listing price: $549,000

Bottom Line: Concord, New Hampshire

Concord, NH cityscape and New Hampshire State House

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Concord is also a state capital, and its downtown area features plenty of charming colonial architecture and landmarks. The city’s economy is led by opportunities in government, healthcare, education and various professional services.

Concord’s location in the picturesque Merrimack Valley provides outdoor activities for all ages, including hiking, biking and exploring nature trails.

7. Monroe, Michigan

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Median days on market: 37

Median listing price: $276,000

Bottom Line: Monroe Michigan

The Battle of River Raisin war memorial in Monroe, MI

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Monroe is located at the shores of the beautiful River Raisin, which is home to the River Raisin National Battlefield Park (NBP), a locale of some historic War of 1812 battles.

The city teems with small-town warmth; situated between Detroit and Toledo, residents have access to the urban amenities of larger cities while maintaining a more relaxed pace of life. Monroe’s affordability, both in terms of housing and cost of living, only adds to its appeal.

6. Worcester, Massachusetts

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Median days on market: 32

Median listing price: $475,000

Bottom Line: Worcester, Massachusetts

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Worcester is a quiet oasis located about an hour from Boston, and housing here is considerably more affordable than in Beantown. Nearly a dozen colleges are located in Worcester, as are quality hospitals, which allows residents job opportunities in those sectors.

The city has several parks, trails and green spaces where residents and visitors can enjoy outdoor activities, with Green Hill Park, Elm Park and the Worcester Common serving as popular destinations.

5. Hartford, Connecticut

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Median days on market: 37

Median listing price: $398,000

Bottom Line: Hartford, Connecticut

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Established in 1635, Hartford ranks among the oldest cities in the U.S. and serves as the capital of Connecticut. The city’s diverse population enjoys an affordable cost of living, accessibility to higher education and new residential developments galore.

For those hoping to work in the insurance industry, you are in luck! The area has been dubbed the “The Insurance Capital of the World,” as it is home to the headquarters of most major insurers.

4. Springfield, Massachusetts

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Median days on market: 34

Median listing price: $350,000

Bottom Line: Springfield, Massachusetts

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Springfield is known as the “The City of Homes” due to its wealth of historic and modern residences. Housing here is more affordable in comparison to many other areas in the state.

Homebuyers seeking a relaxed pace, a tight-knit community, four distinct seasons and a wealth of outdoor activities are increasingly drawn to Springfield, making it an attractive choice for both retirees and younger families. Additionally, the city’s proximity to Boston and New York City further enhances its appeal.

3. Rockford, Illinois

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Median days on market: 27

Median listing price: $209,000

Bottom Line: Rockford, Illinois

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Nestled along the Rock River, Rockford is the second largest city in Illinois, with numerous jobs in industries such as aerospace, automotive, logistics, healthcare and advanced manufacturing.

The cost of living in Rockford is relatively affordable, and should residents wish to experience the feel of a bustling metropolis, the Windy City is a short, two-hour drive away.

2. Rochester, New York

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Median days on market: 25

Median listing price: $239,000

Bottom Line: Rochester, New York

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Rochester saw major economic challenges in the 1980s and 1990s, but it’s now one of the most sought-after destinations for homebuyers. The city boasts a cost of living below the national average and is close to Buffalo and Toronto, with New York City just an hour’s flight away.

The Flower City has excellent schools, large home lots and several outdoor recreational areas, making it a magnet for families. However, it should be noted that property taxes here rank among the highest in the U.S.

1. Manchester-Nashua, New Hampshire

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Median days on market: 31

Median listing price: $520,000

Bottom Line: Manchester-Nashua, New Hampshire

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The Manchester-Nashua metro topped the list for several months in 2023, and its reign shows no signs of slowing down. Serving as both a small town and a commuter suburb to Boston, the area offers homes at significantly lower prices compared to those of larger cities. Add no sales tax and the anticipation of a new commuter rail service to the equation, and you can see why it is so popular among potential homeowners.

In addition to its residential appeal, the presence of major corporations — Oracle, HP, Nashua Corporation and Lockheed Martin — add to the region’s economic strength.