Ahead of the presidential election, affordability continues to be a concern for households across the US, but swing states, in particular, are feeling the pinch

The trend is more prevalent in some markets, such as Kentucky, which saw 73% of homes appraised higher than what they actually sold for during the first half of 2024

The Midwest may offer the most affordable prices, but when using a holistic lens, one study found several Florida metros to be the best option for first-time buyers

Iowa holds the top spot on the list, but many buyers are looking toward the Rust Belt region for affordable homes

While the West was the most popular region for renters overall, Minneapolis saw the most renters entering the market in the first half of 2024

Real estate investors were responsible for making nearly 15% of home purchases in Q1 2024, with the Midwest and South seeing the most significant investor activity

In these markets, the median list price is lower than a home’s typical value

Many Midwestern housing markets remain affordable choices for buyers, while coastal cities are primarily affordable to renters

Many California cities top the list, with Irvine recording the highest number of luxury single-family rentals