Are you dreaming of owning a home but feeling the weight of skyrocketing real estate prices?
You’re not alone. With the average U.S. home price hitting over $400,000 in 2024, homeownership seems out of reach for many. But what if we told you that there are still cities in the U.S. where you can buy a home for under $100,000 in 2025? Sounds unbelievable, right? Well, keep reading, because we’re about to reveal the top 20 cities where you can still make your homeownership dreams a reality, even on a budget!
Why Affordable Housing is More Important Than Ever
As home prices continue to rise, many potential buyers, especially first-timers, find themselves stuck in an endless cycle of renting. However, affordable housing options still exist, particularly in specific regions of the U.S. These homes are perfect for those looking to start fresh, invest in a property, or simply enjoy the stability of owning a home.
But here’s the catch: not all affordable housing markets are created equal. Some cities have a wealth of homes priced under $100K, while others might only offer a handful of options. In this article, we’ve compiled the best cities for budget-conscious homebuyers to explore, so you can make a smart, informed decision for your future.
Top 10 Best Cities to Buy a House for Under $100K in 2025
- Detroit, Michigan
- Percentage of listings under $100K: 67.84%
- Why it’s great: Detroit continues to lead with the highest percentage of affordable homes. The city is undergoing revitalization, making it a prime investment opportunity.
- Cleveland, Ohio
- Percentage of listings under $100K: 44.24%
- Why it’s great: Cleveland offers affordable housing options along with a growing economy, making it a strong contender for first-time homebuyers.
- Toledo, Ohio
- Percentage of listings under $100K: 52.34%
- Why it’s great: Toledo offers a high number of affordable homes and has potential for long-term growth with low living costs and good job opportunities.
- St. Louis, Missouri
- Percentage of listings under $100K: 25.73%
- Why it’s great: St. Louis strikes a balance between affordability and urban living. It’s an attractive city for families and investors alike.
- Memphis, Tennessee
- Percentage of listings under $100K: 23.51%
- Why it’s great: Memphis combines affordable housing with cultural richness and economic growth, making it a desirable city for budget-conscious buyers.
- Rochester, New York
- Percentage of listings under $100K: 42.29%
- Why it’s great: Rochester offers a high percentage of affordable listings with family-friendly amenities and a good standard of living.
- Milwaukee, Wisconsin
- Percentage of listings under $100K: 23.76%
- Why it’s great: Milwaukee has a relatively lower percentage of homes under $100K, but it still offers affordable options, a strong job market, and a growing cultural scene.
- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Percentage of listings under $100K: 15.40%
- Why it’s great: Pittsburgh has a low percentage of homes under $100K, but the city is an affordable place to live with a rich industrial history and plenty of educational and healthcare opportunities.
- Buffalo, New York
- Percentage of listings under $100K: 21.05%
- Why it’s great: Buffalo has an excellent number of affordable homes and is seeing a resurgence, with developments boosting its appeal for homebuyers.
- Indianapolis, Indiana
- Percentage of listings under $100K: 4.86%
- Why it’s great: Indianapolis is a great city for buyers looking for affordable housing, with a stable economy and access to urban amenities.
Why These Cities?
Key Factors Driving Affordable Housing:
- Economic Opportunities: These cities offer a combination of lower living costs, good job markets, and infrastructure development.
- Revitalization and Investment: Many of these cities are undergoing urban renewal projects, which can lead to appreciation in property values over time.
- Community and Lifestyle: Beyond affordability, these cities offer rich cultural histories, low crime rates, and family-friendly amenities, making them attractive for both homebuyers and renters.
Want to see how much you can afford? Use our Mortgage Calculator to estimate your monthly payments based on your income, home price, interest rates, and loan term. It’s a great way to understand your financial readiness for buying a home in 2025!
Is Buying Under $100K Right for You?
While affordable homes may seem like a dream come true, it’s important to consider your long-term goals. Properties in these price ranges may need some work, so be sure to factor in potential renovation costs. However, with the right research and budgeting, these homes can offer significant savings compared to pricier markets.
Now that you know the best cities where you can buy a home for under $100K, which one caught your eye? Would you consider relocating to one of these affordable cities in 2025?
Share your thoughts in the comments below and let us know if you have any questions about home buying or any specific city. We’d love to hear from you!
