Massachusetts topped the list in 2000. Homes there averaged $192,616. Hawaii was next at $191,347. California came in at $185,997. Scan through the data for all fifty states and you’ll notice something. None of them broke $200,000.

Twenty-five years pass and that’s completely changed. Just Mississippi and West Virginia have averages below $200,000 now. Everyone else crossed it.

Looking at raw numbers doesn’t tell you much by itself. A dollar bought more in 2000 than it does now. I adjusted all the old prices for inflation so we’re comparing actual purchasing power, not just watching digits get bigger.

Look at Hawaii. Homes there averaged $191,347 in 2000. Fast forward to today and you’d expect them to cost around $367,386 just from inflation doing its normal thing. But they’re actually at $816,383. That’s 122% higher than inflation alone would explain. Homeowners gained almost $449,000 in real purchasing power per home.

California’s similar. Those $185,997 homes should be around $357,115 if they’d only matched inflation. They’re at $755,330 instead. Real gain of $398,216 per home, which is 111.5% above inflation.

The expensive northeastern states got even more expensive. Massachusetts hit $636,412, which is 72% beyond inflation. New York’s at $498,383 (up 72.76% in real terms). New Jersey reached $556,462, gaining 72.57%.

Idaho caught me off guard. It’s always been the affordable western state. Prices there jumped 97.3% above inflation. A $122,253 house in 2000 costs $463,123 now. Maine climbed 97%. New Hampshire went up 95.67%. These places don’t have the same geographic constraints as coastal markets, but they still saw massive appreciation.

The Mountain West shows a different pattern. Colorado’s combination of mountain communities and the Denver metro pushed state averages to $529,754, up 58.27% in real terms. Utah gained 64.63% above inflation. Montana and Wyoming don’t have 2000 data available, but their 2026 averages sit well above $350,000.

The Midwest barely moved. Illinois went up 15.08% in real terms. Michigan gained 15.02%. Ohio rose 18.92%. Over a 25-year span, those are tiny increases. Maybe these states built enough housing to keep up with demand. Or maybe their economies struggled in ways that kept prices flat. Probably some combination of both.

Louisiana is the only state where prices actually fell compared to inflation. It dropped 0.57%. Those $108,003 homes from 2000 would be worth $207,366 if they’d tracked with inflation. They’re at $206,193 instead. Katrina hit in 2005 and the housing market there just never bounced back. Twenty years later and you can still see it in the data.

The South had moderate but steady gains. Florida went up 80.43% above inflation even with hurricane season every year. Texas rose 37.29%. Tennessee climbed 52.1%. All beat inflation but didn’t match what happened on the coasts.

Why did different regions end up so far apart? Geography plays a big role. You can’t build more beachfront no matter how much demand there is. Tech companies concentrated in certain metros and started paying people ridiculous salaries. Remote work changed everything in the 2020s. People could suddenly live anywhere and keep their high-paying jobs. Some moved to Idaho, others to Maine. Meanwhile certain cities had zoning rules that basically prevented new construction. Each state got its own mix of these pressures.

Someone who bought a Massachusetts home in 2000 gained $266,589 in real purchasing power without lifting a finger. Just owned the property. Someone in Mississippi gained $16,118. Someone in Louisiana lost money in real terms. Housing worked as a geographic lottery for building wealth.

Affordability in 2000 looked completely different. Mississippi averaged $88,614 for a home. West Virginia sat at $72,434. Families with median incomes could actually buy houses in these places. Today even the cheapest states have crossed $165,000, and that’s just the average.

Only two states still have averages under $200,000. Mississippi’s at $186,256. West Virginia’s at $168,655. Every other state needs six figures to hit the average price. A $200,000 house from 2000 should run about $384,000 now if it just kept pace with inflation. Most markets went way past that.

The Carolinas are worth mentioning because they managed to grow without going crazy. North Carolina went up 33.83% above inflation. Homes there average $327,663 now. South Carolina’s at $296,981 after a 36.76% real increase. Both attracted new residents but avoided the price explosions you see in other growing states.

The American housing market got completely reorganized over these 25 years. Broad affordability turned into regional stratification. States that already cost more in 2000 mostly pulled further ahead. Some cheap markets suddenly weren’t cheap anymore, pushing out people who’d lived there for generations.

The post Housing Prices by State, 2000 vs 2026: Who Gained the Most Above Inflation? appeared first on Vivid Maps.

A map designed by Madevisual.co, using information from Forbes, Bloomberg, and Wikipedia, lines up several of these privately owned islands. Seeing them next to each other shows just how much variety there is, from Lāna‘i in Hawaii – a full-fledged inhabited island – to smaller Caribbean specks transformed into luxury retreats.

What’s fascinating is how differently these islands are used. Larry Ellison didn’t just buy Lāna‘i for vacations – he turned it into a testbed for sustainability projects and eco-tourism, while still controlling much of the island’s development. Richard Branson uses Necker as both a private retreat and a luxury resort where paying guests can rent the island for tens of thousands per night. Dietrich Mateschitz turned Fiji’s Laucala into one of the most exclusive resorts in the Pacific, with golf courses and villas that rent for more than most homes cost.

Others keep things more personal. David Copperfield’s Musha Cay in the Bahamas is famous for hosting celebrities and friends in near-total privacy. Chris Morris, who made his billions from liquor and casinos, uses Pelorus and Orpheus Islands as tropical escapes. The Cannon-Brookes couple bought Dunk Island with a mix of leisure and redevelopment in mind, and Larry Page has quietly accumulated a grab-bag of islands scattered across the Caribbean and Pacific – less about resorts, more about private retreats.

Even among billionaires, the motives vary: some see their island as a business venture, others as a family hideaway, and a few as both. And prices don’t always match size – Bell Island, barely over a square kilometer, cost more than the much larger Laucala. It’s a reminder that exclusivity, location, and prestige often matter more than raw acreage.

The post Billionaire Islands Compared on the Map appeared first on Vivid Maps.

A record number of renters have become cost-burdened, meaning they pay over 30% of their income just for housing alone. A report by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development found that the number of homeless people in the U.S. reached over 770,000 on a single January night in 2024, a record that has only been surpassed by the two million homeless during the Great Depression.

Despite the heartbreaking rates of homelessness in the U.S., there is still an abundance of vacant homes. MortgageCalculator.org has created this visual guide to highlight which U.S. states have the most vacant homes per homeless person to help shed light on this complex issue:

There are over 14 million vacant houses across the country. Based on 2023 figures, this equates to approximately 21.56 vacant homes per homeless person.

However, the distribution of these vacant homes is highly uneven. While some states struggle with high homelessness rates, others—particularly rural states—have significantly more empty homes per unhoused individual.

Which State Has the Most Vacant Homes per Homeless Person?

Mississippi has 187.31 vacant homes per homeless person, by far the highest rate in the country. This high rate can be attributed to the state’s relatively low overall homeless population. Surprisingly, despite 19.58% of Mississippi’s population living below the poverty line—the highest poverty rate in the U.S.—homelessness remains relatively low due to a cost of living 15% below the national average.

Additionally, about 54% of Mississippi’s population resides in rural areas, where housing demand is lower and affordability is higher. However, Mississippi’s largest city, Jackson, has nearly 25% of the state’s abandoned properties. This creates hotspots for crime, lowers surrounding property values, and discourages investment in those neighborhoods.

Why Are There So Many Vacant Homes in the U.S.?

Vacant homes in the U.S. exist for several reasons:

• Seasonal vacation homes: Some are only occupied for part of the year.
• Investment properties: Owners wait for the right time to sell or rent them out.
• Abandoned properties: Homes that are stuck in legal limbo, foreclosed, or in disrepair.
• Lack of demand: Some homes remain empty in declining cities and rural areas where jobs are scarce.

Many vacant homes alongside a worsening homelessness crisis reveal systemic failures within the housing market. Cities like Detroit, Cleveland, and St. Louis struggle with high vacancy rates due to economic downturns, while wealthy metro areas like San Francisco and New York face housing shortages that drive up rent costs.

Homelessness in the U.S.: A Historical Perspective

Homelessness in the U.S. has fluctuated throughout history, with spikes during tumultuous periods such as the Industrial Revolution, the Civil War, the Great Depression, and the 1980s recession. The early 1980s marked the start of what we now consider the modern era of homelessness. Key contributing factors include:

• Gentrification of inner cities
• High unemployment rates
• The deinstitutionalization of mental health patients
• Deep cuts to social service funding
• Lack of affordable housing

Today, America is experiencing one of its worst affordable housing crises. Major cities have been hit hardest. Between 2019 and 2023, rents in major metros increased by 30.4%, while wages only grew by 20.2%.

Who Is Most Affected by Homelessness?

Homelessness does not affect all communities equally. Systemic inequalities have led to disproportionate rates of homelessness among certain groups:

Racial Disparities in Homelessness

• White Americans: 11.5 per 10,000 people
• African Americans: 55.2 per 10,000
• American Indians/Alaskan Natives: 66.6 per 10,000
• Native Hawaiians & Pacific Islanders: 159.8 per 10,000

LGBTQ+ Community

LGBTQ+ individuals experience a 120% higher risk of homelessness compared to non-LGBTQ+ individuals.

How to Avoid Homelessness & How to Help

Around 50% of Americans live paycheck to paycheck, meaning they are just one major crisis away from homelessness. Families struggling with housing costs should consider:

• Seeking rental assistance programs
• Exploring affordable housing options
• Building emergency savings
• Finding nonprofit or government aid resources

If you or someone you know is struggling with housing insecurity, these organizations offer valuable assistance:

• National Coalition for the Homeless – Finding Help
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – Rental Assistance
• Volunteers for America – Assisting Those Experiencing Homelessness

Final Thoughts

The homelessness crisis and the abundance of vacant homes in the U.S. expose deep flaws in the housing system. While millions of homes sit empty, record numbers of Americans are struggling to find shelter. Addressing this crisis requires policy changes, investment in affordable housing, and a rethinking of how vacant homes can be better utilized.

Would you support policies that convert vacant homes into affordable housing? Share your thoughts in the comments!

The post Which U.S. States Have the Most Vacant Houses per Homeless Person? appeared first on Vivid Maps.

A new report by Switch On Business has shed light on this issue, providing us with fascinating data to analyze. Let’s dive into their findings and explore the maps that tell this compelling story.

Quick Facts:

• New York City leads with $7.61 billion in annual lost rent from vacant offices.
• Los Angeles follows with $2.10 billion in annual lost rent.
• New York City has the most vacant office space: 105.8 million sq. ft.
• Chicago comes in second with 58.1 million sq. ft. of empty offices.

New York’s Skyline Shift: A $7.61 Billion Office Vacancy Crisis

The first map reveals a striking transformation of the American urban landscape, with New York City at its epicenter. The Big Apple’s office market is facing an unprecedented challenge, with vacant offices accounting for a staggering $7.61 billion in lost revenue annually. To put this into perspective, that’s more than the GDP of some small countries.

This isn’t the first time the U.S. has grappled with office vacancies. The late 1970s and 1980s saw similar peaks, driven by overbuilding during periods of economic optimism. However, the current situation is unique in its scale and underlying causes.

While past vacancy spikes were typically linked to economic downturns or specific events like the 2001 terrorist attacks and the 2008 financial crisis, today’s empty offices reflect a more fundamental shift in how we work. The rise of remote work, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has revolutionized our relationship with physical office spaces.

Dr. Stijn Van Nieuwerburgh, a Columbia Business School Professor of Real Estate, has coined the term “urban doom loop” to describe this phenomenon. He suggests that the future of cities like New York hinges on how we adapt to this new reality. “What happens to New York City from here on out depends on the actions we take and the policy decisions that are made,” says Van Nieuwerburgh. “In a best-case scenario, we remove 30 or 40 percent of the office stock in New York City and turn it into wonderful housing. New York City has all these great amenities, it’s a wonderful place where young people want to live, regardless of where they work.”

This transformation isn’t limited to New York. California’s tech hubs are also feeling the impact, with Los Angeles ($2.10 bn), San Francisco ($2.01 bn), and San Jose ($2.00 bn) all facing significant losses. Yet, even combined, these three cities’ vacant office values fall short of New York’s colossal figure.

The second map, based on the Switch On Business report, reveals the extent of vacant office space across major U.S. cities. New York City again tops the list with 105.8 million sq. ft. of empty offices – an area that could fit 2.9 Central Parks! Chicago follows with 58.1 million sq. ft., showcasing how this issue spans from coast to coast.

Los Angeles Leads the West in Office Vacancies

In the Western United States, California cities are feeling the brunt of the office vacancy crisis. Los Angeles tops the list with $2.10 billion in lost rentals across 51.1 million square feet of empty space. San Francisco and San Jose follow closely, each with about $2 billion in lost value. This concentration in tech-heavy areas suggests that the tech industry’s embrace of remote work is a significant driver of this trend.

A recent study from Rand Corp. indicates that around 2,300 commercial properties in Los Angeles could potentially be converted to provide between 72,000 and 113,000 homes. State Assembly Member Matt Haney notes, “Our downtowns still are built for a time and a way of work that’s not coming back anytime soon,” highlighting the need for adaptive reuse strategies.

Chicago Dominates Midwest’s Office Vacancy Landscape

In the Midwest, Chicago stands out with a staggering 58.1 million sq. ft. of vacant space, worth $2.05 billion annually. This amount surpasses the combined total of the next six Midwestern cities. The skyscraper’s birthplace is now witnessing some building prices plummet to less than a quarter of their previous valuations.

Minneapolis—Saint Paul follows with $621.77 million in lost value. In St. Paul, subletting has become common as companies reduce costs while adapting to the slow return to the workplace. The city is also exploring office-to-residential conversions, which could boost both housing and employment levels. Local developer Chris Sherman points out, “Seventy-five percent of the cost of conversion goes to labor and only 25 percent material, whereas on new construction, it’s about the opposite. So for both sustainability and job creation, conversions are highly impactful.”

Dallas and Houston: $3 Billion Down in Vacant Offices

In the Southwest, the Texas cities of Dallas and Houston are facing significant challenges, with $1.62 billion and $1.56 billion in lost value from vacant office space, respectively. This region was a hotspot for over-building during the oil boom of the 1970s, and twentieth-century buildings have fallen vacant at a much higher rate than those built in recent years.

Some employers, like NRG Energy, are attempting to lure workers back with state-of-the-art surroundings and amenities such as on-site gyms. However, the overall trend suggests a need for reimagining these spaces for the post-pandemic era.

Atlanta: Southeast’s Epicenter of Office Vacancies

In the Southeast, Atlanta, Georgia stands out with $1.24 billion in lost value from empty offices, significantly more than other cities in the region. According to data from CBRE, a real estate services firm, almost one-third (32.4%) of all office space in Atlanta is empty. This marks the 9th consecutive quarter that availability has risen in the city.

The research indicates that the increasing vacancy of offices in Atlanta is primarily attributed to major corporations closing down satellite offices in order to save costs. “Overall, the stubbornly high availability rate in Atlanta continues to be the result of corporate tenants with substantial footprints offloading unneeded space amidst economic distress,” the CBRE report states.

Boston and New Jersey Join New York in Office Space Losses

While New York City leads the Northeast (and the entire United States) with $7.61 billion in lost rent, Boston ($1.43 billion) and New Jersey ($1.37 billion) are also seeing significant impacts. The Boston Policy Institute calculates that the city may lose $1.4 billion in taxes over five years, with Boston being “uniquely dependent on this revenue source and therefore uniquely vulnerable to the price declines in the commercial sector,” according to Evan Horowitz of Tuft’s Center for State Policy Analysis.

In response, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu has implemented a 75% discount on residential tax bills for converted buildings to stimulate redevelopment projects. Economists see Boston as one of several U.S. cities where office-to-residential conversion is most achievable, because of the high price of home rentals.

Why is this happening?

Several factors contribute to this nationwide phenomenon, as highlighted by the Switch On Business report:

• Remote work revolution: Around 28.6 million, or 20% of U.S. workers aged 18-24, now work on a hybrid or fully remote basis. This shift has dramatically impacted office occupancy rates, which are now only half of what they were pre-pandemic.
• Technological advancements: Improved communication tools have made remote work more feasible and efficient.
• Changing worker preferences: Many employees now prioritize flexibility and work-life balance over traditional office setups.
• Economic pressures: Companies are looking to cut costs by reducing their physical footprint.
• Overbuilding: Decades of excessive office construction have led to a surplus of space.

This significant change in work patterns, especially among younger workers, is reshaping not just individual companies but entire urban landscapes. The halving of occupancy rates in U.S. cities compared to pre-pandemic levels underscores the magnitude of this shift and its potential long-term implications for urban planning, real estate, and city economies.

The Road Ahead

As we navigate this new landscape, cities, and businesses are exploring creative solutions. Some are converting offices into residential spaces, while others are reimagining office designs to entice workers back. The future of our urban centers will likely involve a mix of these strategies, adapting to the changing needs of the workforce and the communities they serve.

When even the chief people officer at Zoom is excited about in-person office space, perhaps there is hope that office vacancies have already peaked. “What we’ve found is, people have enjoyed coming back to the office,” Zoom’s Matthew Saxon told NPR. “There is a buzz. There’s something about being able to go have lunch with your teammates.”

However, both imagination and investment are essential, even in the best scenarios. Years after the Covid pandemic, companies are still figuring out how to balance remote work with the advantages of office space — those that thrive may benefit from being bold and nimble.

Methodology

The Switch On Business team created these maps and analyzed the data using figures from Cushman & Wakefield MarkBeat U.S. National Quarterly Reports. They calculated the total square footage of empty office space by multiplying the total office space inventory by the vacancy rates. Then, they determined the lost value in each market by multiplying the empty office space figures by the asking rents (annual price in USD per square foot). This data is current as of July 2024.

As we continue to monitor this geographic shift in how we use our urban spaces, one thing is clear: the American office landscape is undergoing a profound transformation. By understanding these patterns and their causes, we can better prepare for the cities of tomorrow. For readers of our cartography and maps blog, this shift presents a fascinating study of urban evolution. We’re witnessing a real-time redrawing of our city centers, with potential ripple effects on everything from public transportation routes to residential patterns.

The post The Geography of Empty Offices: Mapping America’s Urban Vacancy Crisis appeared first on Vivid Maps.

The map below created by Reddit user: Convillious shows Texas’s largest private ranches with a size comparison.

These sprawling properties, some dating back to the 1800s, showcase both Texas’s ranching heritage and its evolution into modern land management. The iconic King Ranch leads the pack at 825,000 acres (3,338 square kilometers). Founded in 1853, it’s not just about size – the ranch pioneered cattle breeding programs and is credited with developing the Santa Gertrudis cattle breed.

Here’s a comprehensive look at Texas’s largest private ranches:

The Briscoe Ranch, following closely behind King Ranch with 640,000 acres (2,590 square kilometers) of South Texas terrain, has its own remarkable history. The ranch’s legacy intertwines with Texas politics – former governor Dolph Briscoe Jr. expanded the family’s holdings significantly during his lifetime.

The historic Waggoner Ranch, sold in 2016 for $725 million, covers 535,000 acres (2,165 square kilometers). Its operations extend beyond cattle to include significant oil production, making it a prime example of how Texas ranches have diversified their income streams.

To put these sizes in perspective, the King Ranch’s 825,000 acres (3,338 sq km) could fit all of Singapore, and Bahrain, and still have room for about 200,000 football fields. Even the “smaller” ranches on our list, like the Kenedy Ranch, cover an area larger than five times the size of Paris’s city center.

An interesting modern addition to Texas’s ranching landscape is Jeff Bezos’s Corn Ranch, measuring 185,472 acres (750 square kilometers). While technically a ranch, it’s now better known as the base for Blue Origin’s space operations.

The legendary 6666 Ranch (Four Sixes), at 275,000 acres (1,113 square kilometers), recently gained renewed attention after featuring in the TV series “Yellowstone”. Founded in 1870, it maintains its reputation for superior quarter horse breeding and cattle operations.

These massive ranches play crucial roles in Texas’s economy. According to Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, ranching contributes approximately $12.3 billion annually to Texas’s economy. Many of these properties have diversified beyond traditional cattle operations into oil and gas, wind energy, hunting leases, and tourism.

Modern challenges facing these ranches include water rights management, inheritance taxes, and pressure to subdivide for development. However, many ranch owners participate in conservation easements to preserve these historic properties for future generations.

The legacy of Texas’s largest ranches continues to evolve, balancing tradition with modern innovation. While cattle still graze these vast expanses, today’s ranches are complex operations that reflect changing times while maintaining their historic significance in Texas culture.

The future of these vast Texas ranches lies at the intersection of tradition and innovation. While their sheer size helps protect them from some development pressures, changing climate patterns and economic factors continue to shape their operations. What do you think these ranches will look like in 50 years? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

The post The Largest Private Ranches in Texas: A Legacy of Land and Tradition appeared first on Vivid Maps.

However, this figure alone does not reflect the significant disparity in housing prices throughout the country. Sure, we know that homes in Hawaii and California tend to be more expensive than in other states. We also know that properties in cities like New York and San Francisco cost hundreds of thousands more than in rural towns.

Yet, the question remains: how much do house prices fluctuate on a neighborhood-to-neighborhood basis? Are the residents of these neighborhoods able to afford homeownership at all? To address these inquiries, American Home Shield embarked on a quest to uncover the most and least affordable ZIP codes for residents to purchase a home in the U.S.

Key Findings

• The most affordable ZIP code in the country for locals to purchase a house is 48505 in Flint, Michigan. The median house price is 0.95 times the median annual salary of a local worker.
• Conversely, the least affordable ZIP code is 90210 in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, where a typical home costs 34.82 times what a typical local worker earns in a year.
• In New York City, two ZIP codes in the Bronx stand out as the most (10462) and least (10454) affordable for local residents to buy a home.
• In Chicago, 60661 (Near West Side) is the most affordable ZIP code, while 60629 (Logan Square) is the least affordable.
• Houston sees 77345 (Kingwood) as its most affordable ZIP code, while 77024 (around Piney Point Village) is the least affordable.
• In Philadelphia, 19133 (Fairhill) represents the most affordable ZIP code, while 77024 (parts of Ludlow) emerges as the least affordable.

The Least Affordable Zip Code to Buy Property in Every U.S. State

In the least affordable ZIP codes, even high incomes fail to counterbalance soaring housing costs. For instance, on the island of Nantucket in Cape Cod (02554), where the typical household earns $116,470 annually, the median home price of $2.7 million amounts to 22.8 times the median income—rendering it the least affordable ZIP code in Massachusetts. However, the title of least affordable overall goes to the renowned 90210 ZIP code in Beverly Hills, where the median home price is 34.8 times the income.

The Most Affordable Zip Code to Buy Property in Every U.S. State

Below is a map of the U.S. showcasing the most affordable ZIP code in each state. In Texas, a state experiencing a surge in new residents this year, the title goes to 79007, located in the city of Borger. Here, a typical house costs just 1.65 times the average annual income of local workers. Even the wealthiest states have their more affordable ZIP codes; in the 6074 ZIP code of South Windsor, Connecticut, a typical home costs 2.94 times the local median annual salary.

The Most and Least Affordable Zip Codes to Buy Property Across America

In the ZIP code 48505 of Flint, Michigan, the median home price ($27,703) falls below the annual income of a typical local worker ($29,061), resulting in a home price-to-household income ratio of 0.95. This distinction earns the ZIP code the title of the most affordable in the country for locals to purchase a house. Flint has faced significant challenges, including a crisis involving lead and harmful bacteria contaminating the local water supply, which has led to a decline in the city’s population, likely reducing the demand for housing.

Following Flint, the ranking is predominantly filled with ZIP codes in America’s Rustbelt, an area that experienced economic decline following the downturn in heavy industry. Population has also dwindled in these areas, but in recent years, millennials have been drawn to Rustbelt towns due to their more affordable housing options.

The Most and Least Affordable Zip Codes in New York City

Focusing on New York City, renowned as one of the world’s most expensive cities, the most affordable ZIP codes mainly include neighborhoods in the Bronx, Queens, and Staten Island. However, one ZIP code stands out: 10017, where the median home price is 5.16 times the annual income of a typical local worker. This ZIP code encompasses Murray Hill, a Manhattan neighborhood just blocks away from the Empire State Building. As of 2018, it is not considered gentrified based on the comparison of median rent and income.

The Most and Least Affordable Zip Codes in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a city known for its wealth, where even five million dollars may not be enough to buy a mansion, as claimed by affluent property owners opposing a local tax intended to aid the homeless. However, there are certainly ZIP codes in Los Angeles where it’s feasible for average earners to purchase a home. One such ZIP code is 91307, encompassing the areas of Bell Canyon and West Hills. Here, a typical home is priced at just 7.80 times the annual income of a local household, amounting to an impressive $125,343.

One of the least affordable ZIP codes in Los Angeles is 90007, with a ratio of 27.79. This ZIP code includes the neighborhood of North University Park, which ranks among the lowest-income neighborhoods in the country. Located near the University of Southern California, this area has witnessed the emergence of luxury housing developments primarily targeting students, posing a threat to the existing residents. Furthermore, landlords have been evicting long-term renters to convert their properties into lucrative student accommodations.

The Most and Least Affordable Zip Codes in Chicago

Ranked as the most affordable ZIP code in Chicago, 60661 boasts a median home price that is only 2.30 times the median annual income of local residents. This ZIP code encompasses the Near West Side community, where a new mixed-use development broke ground in July, intending to provide 63 affordable residential units. Following closely, 60655 (2.73) is among the next-most affordable ZIP codes, encompassing the Mount Greenwood community area, known as one of the wealthier areas in the city.

Other ZIP codes in the Second City present challenges for the average local in terms of affordability. For instance, 60647 (Logan Square) stands out, with a typical home costing 5.30 times more than the median household income. Logan Square’s affordability landscape has transformed significantly due to gentrification in the twenty-first century. Previously, the area’s low rents and housing prices attracted immigrants and working-class citizens. Additionally, among the other least affordable ZIP codes are 60639 (5.28) and 60608 (5.26).

The Most and Least Affordable Zip Codes in Houston

In Houston, Texas, the 77345 ZIP code claims the title of the city’s most affordable area for locals to purchase property. Situated in the planned community of Kingwood, residents can acquire a home for just 2.69 times their annual income, with the cost of living being 6% lower than the national average. Following closely is 77054 (3.02), covering the Astrodome neighborhood, known for its higher proportion of residents working as executives and managers compared to 99.8% of American neighborhoods.

The Most and Least Affordable Zip Codes in Philadelphia

The 19133 ZIP code in Philadelphia stands out as the most affordable area in which to purchase a home within the city. Here, the median price of a house is just 2.36 times the median annual salary of a local worker. It’s important to note that this ZIP code has a poverty rate five times higher than the national average, making it the poorest in the city. Following closely is 19132 (2.51), covering an area to the west of Fairhill.

Philadelphia also harbors neighborhoods where purchasing a home is beyond the means of the average local earner. According to Pew Charitable Trusts, “In Philadelphia, there simply isn’t enough affordable housing for a large number of residents at the low end of the income scale.” The ZIP code 19122 stands out as the least affordable of all, with a typical home costing 6.65 times the annual income of a local worker. Interestingly, this ZIP code encompasses an area just south of the most affordable ZIP code in the city.

Crucial Budgeting Tips for First-Time Home Buyers

Amidst soaring house prices and interest rates, it’s understandable that the proportion of first-time home buyers in the United States plummeted to a record low in 2022. However, if you’re embarking on the journey to purchase your first property, don’t lose hope — follow our indispensable tips to navigate budgeting like a seasoned pro.

Determine Your Affordability

Start by assessing your gross monthly income. A general guideline is to seek a property that won’t require you to allocate more than 28% of your monthly gross income towards your mortgage. Also, consider any existing debts, such as student loans.

Mortgage lenders scrutinize your debt-to-income ratio when evaluating your mortgage eligibility. According to Investopedia, lenders typically prefer a debt-to-income ratio below 36%, with no more than 28% of that debt dedicated to servicing a mortgage or rent payment.

Analyze Your Current Spending Habits

Utilize free online budget templates to track your monthly expenses. This exercise not only helps you determine how much of your income should be designated for essentials, such as bills, but also allows you to identify expenses that can be minimized to bolster your savings for a down payment.

While you need not eliminate all discretionary spending, consider sacrificing a luxury or two temporarily. Review your bank statements; you might be among the 42% of Americans still paying for unnecessary subscriptions.

Explore Government-Backed Assistance Programs

First-time buyers seeking to maximize a modest budget should explore whether they qualify for assistance from government-backed loan programs or incentives. For instance, certain Federal Housing Administration (FHA) programs enable first-time buyers to secure a home with just a 3.5% down payment. For detailed information, refer to Investopedia’s guide on incentives for first-time buyers.

Once you’ve taken the plunge and obtained the keys to your first home (phew!), ensure your property is adequately insured and protected by a home warranty, safeguarding all essential systems and appliances against unforeseen breakdowns.

Methology

To identify the most affordable ZIP codes for property purchases, the American Home Shield team analyzed data on home prices sourced from Zillow and income data from the U.S. Census Bureau. ZIP codes were ranked based on the ratio of median home price to median household income. Those with the highest ratios of median home price to median household income were categorized as the least affordable, while those with the lowest ratios were designated as the most affordable. The median home price data is current as of October 2023 and obtained from Zillow, while median household income data is sourced from the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2021 American Community Survey. The analysis included only ZIP code tabulation areas with a population of at least 10,000 residents.

The post The Most Affordable ZIP Codes to Buy Property in Every U.S. State appeared first on Vivid Maps.

While it might be tempting to assume that every city apartment is exorbitantly priced or that homes in remote areas are exceedingly affordable, the reality is more nuanced. In any U.S. town or city, an opulent neighborhood might be in close proximity to another, where homes sell for considerably less than the national average cost per square foot of property, which stands at $244.

This led the analysts at American Home Shield to ponder: considering the price per square foot of the average local property, where can one find the least and most expensive neighborhoods to buy in the U.S.?

Key Findings

• The South of Market neighborhood in San Francisco claims the title of the most expensive in the U.S., with an average property cost of $5,415 per square foot.
• Predominantly, the top 20 most expensive neighborhoods in the country are located in California, Florida, and New York.
• In stark contrast, Homewood North in Pennsylvania secures the position of the least expensive neighborhood, where the average property is priced at $29 per square foot.
• Beyond Pennsylvania, some of the most affordable neighborhoods in the country are situated in Ohio, Missouri, and Indiana.

The Most Expensive Neighborhood per Square Foot

Neighborhoods in California, Florida, New York, Hawaii, and Washington consistently rank among the most expensive states to reside in. However, pockets of high-cost real estate persist in every corner of the country.

Leading the list in Massachusetts is The Seaport, a waterfront neighborhood where the average property commands a steep price of $1,725 per square foot. Over the last few decades, this area has witnessed the transformation of once-empty wharves and lots into upscale apartments, stores, and restaurants. The allure of The Seaport has attracted a community of residents with a median income of $167,000.

For beachfront towns such as Fenwick Island in Delaware and Bay Head in New Jersey, top prices are the norm statewide. Meanwhile, in Downtown Asheville—where boutique galleries seamlessly blend with hiking trails and other outdoor recreational opportunities—the average home price reaches $659 per square foot, making it the most expensive neighborhood in North Carolina.

In San Francisco’s South of Market neighborhood, commonly referred to as SoMa, the average property commands a staggering $5,415 per square foot, making it the most expensive neighborhood in the United States. Nestled just south of Market Street, this area boasts the presence of billion-dollar tech giants such as Airbnb and Uber, contributing to a median household income of $104,440.

The Least Expensive Neighborhood per Square Foot

In various neighborhoods throughout the United States, the cost of buying property is considerably more affordable. The average home price in Homewood North, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is only $29 per square foot, making it the least expensive neighborhood in the US. The median household income in this area is $29,694, representing a 46% deviation below the national average. Another Pittsburgh neighborhood, Beltzhoover, also secures a spot on the list with an average cost of $38 per square foot.

The majority of the other affordable neighborhoods are situated in the Rust Belt states of Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Missouri, and Ohio, attracting younger generations seeking more economical housing options. Ranking second overall is Downtown Gary in Indiana, where the average home is priced at $32 per square foot. The decline in local industry since the 1960s has led to a significant population decrease, with approximately a third of Gary’s properties estimated to be vacant today.

The Most and Least Expensive Neighborhoods in the Largest U.S. Cities

The real estate scenery across the nation showcases remarkable diversity. Notably, in major U.S. cities such as New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, neighborhoods like Manhattan, Bel Air, and Rush-Division are recognized as the most expensive, while neighborhoods like Hartsdale, South Park, and South Shore emerge as the most affordable options within these urban centers.

New York City

Much like San Francisco, New York City holds a reputation as one of the world’s most expensive places to reside. While many locals opt for renting, even the smallest apartments in the city can exceed a thousand dollars per month. The trendy West Village stands out as the most expensive neighborhood for buying, with an average property price reaching $2,680 per square foot, attracting numerous celebrities in this historically bohemian enclave.

For those with a more budget-conscious approach, Hartsdale offers a more affordable option, where the average property cost is just $343 per square foot—the city’s least expensive rate. Situated over 20 miles north of Manhattan in the town of Greenburgh, Hartsdale provides a diverse range of housing options, from one-bedroom apartments to five-bedroom homes on spacious plots, as highlighted by The New York Times.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles, renowned for its association with the rich and famous, boasts Bel Air as its most expensive neighborhood for property purchases—an exclusive gated community where the average square foot comes with a hefty price tag of $1,318. To showcase the luxuriousness, the local Casa Encantada mansion is currently being sold for a staggering $195 million (as of December 2023), which equates to an astonishing $4,875 per square foot for its approximately 40,000 square feet.

South Park is a neighborhood in Los Angeles located about half an hour’s drive from Bel Air. It has the least expensive properties in the city, with an average square foot price of $419. Nestled in the heart of downtown, this location suffers from noise pollution and a crime rate 492% higher than the national average.

Chicago

Chicago’s Rush & Division claims the title of the city’s most expensive neighborhood for home purchases, with the average property priced at $615 per square foot. Nestled in the Windy City’s historic Gold Coast district—one of the most affluent neighborhoods in the U.S.—this area boasts an average household income of a comfortable $125k. The renowned Magnificent Mile also ranks high at $507 per square foot, hosting luxury stores, high-end restaurants, and iconic landmarks.

In contrast, the lakefront community of South Shore stands as the least expensive neighborhood in Chicago, with properties costing a mere $98 per square foot. According to the South Shore Housing Data Project, the community has a higher poverty rate (30%) compared to the city of Chicago (17%) and continues to house the highest number of households renting with Housing Choice Voucher subsidies in the city.

Philadelphia

In Philadelphia, the Center City West neighborhood claims the title of the city’s most expensive for home purchases, with the average square foot priced at $668. This vibrant area, adorned with upscale shops, restaurants, and museums, is nestled near Fitler Square and Rittenhouse Square—two neighborhoods ranking second ($623) and third ($526), respectively, in our list below.

Meanwhile, in other parts of the City of Brotherly Love, property costs are notably more affordable. Leading the way is Upper Kensington at $81 per square foot, followed by Tioga at $86 per square foot—a neighborhood where development has lagged compared to other city areas, and the poverty rate has remained around 35% for the past decade.

Houston

Houston boasts one of the highest populations of millionaires in any U.S. city, reflected in the matching property prices of certain neighborhoods. Leading the list is River Oaks, a centrally located community where the average home commands $481 per square foot. Established in the 1920s by two brothers, this affluent neighborhood became a national model for planned communities, gradually attracting wealthier residents over the years.

On the other end of the spectrum is Westwood, where the average property is priced at $105 per square foot. Following closely is Greenspoint, at $106 per square foot, recognized as the fourth-most dangerous neighborhood in Houston in terms of local crime rates, and home to a significant low-income population.

The Methodology Behind This Study

To identify the most and least expensive American neighborhoods per square foot, American Home Shield conducted a thorough analysis using data from Homes.com, encompassing over 20,000 neighborhoods. Rankings were determined by the average sale price per square foot as of December 2023. To ensure robust data, neighborhoods with fewer than 10 sales in the previous 12 months were excluded from the evaluation. The analysis excluded five states—Montana, South Dakota, Wyoming, North Dakota, and Virginia—because of a lack of neighborhood data.

How to Select the Perfect Location for Your Home Purchase

They say that when it comes to finding the right house, the key is in the “location, location, location.” But where should you begin? Check out the American Home Shield’s team tips on selecting the ideal location for your next home.

1. Align with Your Budget: Begin your home search by assessing your budget. If glamorous neighborhoods like LA’s Bel Air or New York’s West Village are beyond your financial reach, it’s practical to focus on areas that fit your budget. Research local house prices to pinpoint a neighborhood that aligns with your financial constraints.
2. Map Your Commute: Factor in your work location when evaluating potential neighborhoods. Assess the commute from your potential future neighborhood to your office—considering modes of transportation, costs, and time. A lengthy and challenging daily commute can significantly affect your overall living experience.
3. Evaluate Nearby Amenities: Living in isolation may not align with everyone’s dream home. When exploring a new neighborhood, examine the local amenities. Prioritize features that matter to you, whether it’s proximity to a mall, a children’s park, or easy access to major highways.
4. Explore Local Schools: For those with children or future family plans, consider the quality and proximity of local schools. Assess the distance from your home to the school and the time it would take for daily drop-offs and pick-ups. If your children will be walking to school, benefiting from ample fresh air and exercise opportunities, you might prefer to reside near a school, allowing for safe and walkable routes for your kids.
5. Examine Crime Rates: While it’s an uncomfortable topic, local crime rates are a crucial factor in choosing a residence. Websites like AreaVibes provide statistics on neighborhood crime rates, offering insights into the types of crimes committed and comparisons with other areas.

When it’s time to visit a potential home, dedicate a day or even a weekend to explore the local area. In-depth research about the neighborhood, including its amenities, schools, and safety, will facilitate a more informed decision when it’s time to make an offer.

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Skyscrapers weren’t merely standalone structures; they frequently formed integral components of a grander, forward-thinking concept for vertical cities. Particularly in densely populated urban regions, they now play a crucial role in optimizing the utilization of constrained space, enabling the housing of thousands of individuals, offices, and amenities within a compact footprint.

However, skyscrapers transcended mere functionality and evolved into canvases for architectural creativity. Visionaries such as Frank Lloyd Wright, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, and Frank Gehry pushed the boundaries with their artistic visions. Gehry’s Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain, stands as a masterpiece challenging convention with its titanium curves, while Adrian Smith’s Burj Khalifa in Dubai represents a symbol of modern elegance and innovation. These iconic designs played a pivotal role in shaping the architectural landscape and remain a source of inspiration, drawing visitors from across the globe.

Yet, however captivating or ingenious they may be, cities dominated by skyscrapers evoke mixed aesthetic opinions, as some contend that once-clear city skylines are now overwhelmed by towering structures. Conversely, others find value in the artistic aspects and the economic progress often associated with skyscrapers.

But which cities boast the tallest skylines worldwide? To find out, Buildworld analyzed SkyscraperPage.com data to rank the tallest skylines in the world and each country’s tallest skyline.

So, which cities boast the tallest skylines in the world? To uncover the answer, the Buildworld team conducted an analysis of SkyscraperPage.com data, ranking both the tallest skylines globally and the tallest skylines within each country.

Key Findings

• Dubai (UAE) has the tallest skyline in the world, with an average height of 323.9 meters. (1062.7 feet)
• The world’s second-tallest skyline belongs to New York City (299.1 meters or 981.3 feet)
• China dominates the results with nine cities amongst the top 20 tallest skylines in the world, led by Shenzhen (296.1 meters or 971.5 feet)

The World’s Tallest Skylines

Presently, not every tall building merits the designation of a skyscraper. While the precise definition may differ, a consensus among most architects suggests that a minimum height of 150 meters (approximately 492 feet) is required for qualification. Whether classified as skyscrapers or not, building heights across the globe continue to reach new heights. In light of the average heights of their local skyscrapers, which cities can rightfully boast of having the tallest skylines?

It may come as no surprise that Dubai, UAE, claims the title of the ultimate city in the clouds, boasting an average building height of 323.9 meters (1062.7 feet). This stunning skyline features architectural marvels like the twisting Cayan Tower, the graceful Princess Tower, and the iconic Burj Al Arab, resembling a billowing sail. However, the crown jewel is undeniably the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building at an astonishing 828.1 meters (2716.9 feet), holding the record not only for the world’s tallest building but also the tallest structure (previously held by the KVLY-TV mast in Blanchard, North Dakota) and the tallest free-standing structure (previously held by Toronto’s CN Tower).

China dominates the rankings, with nine cities securing spots in the top 20, led by Shenzhen at 296.1 meters (971.5 feet). While Hong Kong boasts approximately 200 more skyscrapers, Shenzhen’s tallest building is a towering achievement in itself. The Ping An International Finance Centre, standing at 599.1 meters (1965.6 feet), ranks as the country’s second-tallest building and the world’s fifth-tallest skyscraper.

Interestingly, as of September 2020, the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat (CTBUH) reported a total of 81 unfinished skyscrapers in China, with construction suspended on some, and 66 expected never to be completed. This development might have contributed to China’s subsequent ban on “supertall skyscrapers,” which it imposed a year later.

The Tallest Skylines in Every Country

In today’s world, every nation boasts impressive skyscrapers that define its contemporary cityscape, from the iconic Burj Khalifa in the United Arab Emirates to the futuristic Shanghai Tower in China and the majestic One World Trade Center in the United States.

These awe-inspiring edifices serve as a testament to human creativity and engineering excellence while also acting as symbols of economic prosperity and urban advancement. However, the symbolism associated with skyscrapers remains a topic of spirited debate. Some argue that these “towers of power” reinforce capitalism and obstruct cityscape views.

Regardless of aesthetic perspectives, many countries take immense pride in their distinctive architectural marvels. So, the question remains: which city boasts the tallest skyline in each nation?

The world map above provides insight into the cities hosting the world’s tallest skylines in each country. Naturally, metropolises like Dubai, New York, and Shenzhen are among the standout contenders. Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia also secures a spot, boasting an average building height of 233.3 meters (765.4 feet). Notably, it was once home to the world’s tallest building, The Petronas Towers, a pair of 88-storey super-tall skyscrapers that held the global record until 2004, and remained Malaysia’s tallest buildings until 2019 when surpassed by The Exchange 106.

In addition, Toronto in Canada (209.1 meters or 686.0 feet), Melbourne in Australia (208.2 meters or 683.1 feet), and London in the UK (171.6 meters or 563.0 feet) all make notable appearances. Intriguingly, Athens in Greece (66.4 meters or 217.8 feet) also earns its place on the list, known for its height restriction policy that limits buildings to a maximum of twelve floors.

The Methodology Behind This Study

Buildworld’s analysis encompassed the heights, measured in meters, of over 109,000 skyscrapers and high-rise buildings located in cities and metropolitan areas worldwide. The information regarding these skyscrapers and high-rise buildings was sourced from skyscraperpage.com.

To determine the cities with the tallest skylines and identify the tallest skyline within each country, the team calculated the average height of the 50 tallest buildings in each city.

The final analysis excluded cities and locations with fewer than 20 skyscrapers or high-rise buildings. In instances where there were conflicting height measurements for a prominent tall building compared to official sources, the Buildworld team selected the highest measurement available, whether from skyscraperpage.com or another reputable source, taking into account the building’s tallest point, which may include spires or antennas.

Please note that the data for the research is accurate as of July 2023.

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The strong dollar creates the idea specifically appealing to Americans. Overseas possessions are also refreshingly IRS-proof. The tax service overlooks overseas property since it would be “unable to seize or force the sale of your second home in Belize, your penthouse in Colombia, your beach house in Brazil, etc.,” according to Forbes. “Lawyers, former spouses, friends, ex-employees, and so on are likewise stone-walled.”

Moreover, moving to a new country is an exciting opportunity. According to the UN’s World Migration Report, 281 million people (or 3.6% of the world’s population) lived outside their country of origin in 2020.

But which countries do residents of each world nation want to buy property in? MoverDB.com used online search data tools to analyze the number of searches for
properties in every country around the world and identify the most popular place in each country among foreign property hunters. And then, we did the same, looking at which states each state wants to move to. The analysis of global search data reveals that people in 34 countries have their eye on a place in the sun, as houses for sale in Spain are the most frequently searched for in our research. France and Canada (both 13 countries) are also popular for “homes for sale”
searches.

Key Findings

• Spanish estate is the most sought-after in the world, with 34 nations searching for homes in Spain more than elsewhere.
• Britons are the most enthusiastic about a move abroad, with the highest search interest per capita for 22 countries.
• America’s preferable choice place to migrate is Italy.
• But within the U.S., more states are researching moving to Texas than any other American state.

Where Every Country Wants to Buy Property in the World

Property hunters from 34 countries search for Spanish homes more than any other country. The mild climate, a low cost of living and reasonable property prices make it attractive for Europeans, while the golden visa incentive for investments of over €500,000 attracts larger investors. Meanwhile, Spanish home purchases have increased by 76% year-on-year, with Americans taking advantage of direct flights and attractive exchange rates, even though Spain is not the most sought-after destination for Americans.

Italy is America’s top destination, but not just because of its mild climate and cultural heritage.

The large-scale migration from Italy to the United States during the late 19th century had an immense influence on American culture — and nowadays, Italy is the most desired country for American purchasers. In addition, Italy has convenient healthcare and educational systems — although citizens pay for them through taxes.

Most British people don’t anticipate such a long trip across the Atlantic. Property buyers from the United Kingdom dream of living in France, just across the Channel.

While Brexit has made this dream more inconvenient to complete, the idea of being ‘a bit more European’ while picking up a bargain remains attractive to Britons and is especially alluring to pensioners wishing to seek the good life without venturing too distant from the British Isles.

The Country Most Interested in Buying Property in Each Place

If you’re interested in uncovering which nation’s people are most excited about moving to your country, then the world map below is for you. Which are the countries whose residents are researching buying property where you live? The MoverDB team examined global Google searches for “houses for sale” in every country worldwide and identified the countries with the most searches per capita for properties in each nation.

They found that Brits are the keenest on a move abroad, with the highest search interest per capita for 22 countries. Irish nationals are similarly eager, with residents frequenting searches in 19 countries. Sweden is the nationality most likely to purchase a home in the U.S. There is a substantial Swedish line running through the United States: as long as 100 years ago, America could count 824 thousand second-generation Swedish Americans among its population.

Where Every State Wants to Buy Property in the U.S.

According to Statista, 6.1 million homes were sold in the United States in 2021 — the most since 2008’s financial crisis. A post-pandemic housing boom is happening across America, but which states are people most keen on buying property in?

Search data reveals that residents in 17 U.S. states are most interested in moving to Texas, while a further 16 states are considering Florida as a moving destination. Census data shows that these two states had the fastest-growing populations in the U.S. in 2022, and both states are popular for their low taxes and abundant sunshine.

The U.S. State Most-Interested in Buying Property in Each Place

According to analysis, people in 39 of the 48 mainland U.S. states, most actively searched for properties in a neighboring state.

During the past decade, Texas has proven to be a popular destination for buyers. As a result, the Texan population increased by 4 million between 2010 and 2020, with half of those people migrating from abroad or out of state. The cost of living is 8% lower than the national wide average, and Texas is one of just 9 American states with no income tax — with Florida among the others. Florida was an enormously alluring state to move during the pandemic and became the fastest-growing U.S. state in 2022. Traditionally a draw for pensioners, Florida’s climate and nature beauties has opened up to a young generation that can work from anywhere.

The Methodology Behind This Study

To create these maps of the world, the MoveDB team began by creating a list of nations and the languages spoken in those countries. The team then translated the phrase “house for sale {country}” into every language, with each country inserted into the sentence.

Next, the MoveDB team utilized Ahrefs and its Keyword Explorer tool. Operating the “Matching terms” feature, they assembled search volumes for every associated search query and linked each query with a particular country. This identified the most popular location to buy a home abroad for each nation.

Ultimately, they determined which nation is searched most frequently for properties in a given country by comparing the proportion of the number of searches to the population. In this stage, the MoveDB team calculated only the number of searches for the initially compiled keywords (i.e., the analysts didn’t use the “Matching terms” feature). The team repeated the steps for the American states instead using DataForSEO and its Google Ads API and created maps of the United States.

The data was gathered in March 2023.

The post The Most Desirable Countries and States For Property Hunters appeared first on Vivid Maps.

The value of a home due to its presence in a particular neighborhood is a complex calculation of position, crime rates, school results, home sizes, amenities and the je ne sais quoi of desirability that changes with the times.

Whether you are buying a home or expecting to generate a passive income, you will have one eye on today’s purchase prices and rental rates and the other on potential value appreciation. As such, it’s worth remembering that while pricey homes may gain more value in absolute terms, houses in developing neighborhoods may give a more reasonable return as a percentage rate.

While it’s wise to talk about a location’s enduring desirability with a real estate agent before purchasing, a comprehensive appraisal of regional house prices is standard homework that will allow you better picture the project in front of you.

To give the lay of the land, CashNetUSA has revealed the most expensive neighborhood in every state, the ten most valuable overall, and the ten most expensive in five major U.S. cities.

Key findings

• The Manalapan neighborhood of Florida is America’s most expensive, with homes averaging $39,761,000.
• The neighborhood of Snowmass is Colorado’s most expensive and the 3rd most expensive in the United States (average $23,568,750).
• Four of America’s ten most expensive neighborhoods are in Florida.
• Hudson Yards is the most expensive neighborhood in New York City, with an average of $7,459,720

The Most Expensive Neighborhood in Every U.S. State

Property in the U.S. is in high demand in the luxury market – from Central Park penthouses to Malibu mansions. Each state has its own area with luxurious housing for the wealthy.

The CashNetUSA team analyzed property prices in every neighborhood in the country and found that Manalapan, Florida, is the country’s most expensive. With an average home costing a staggering $39.7m, it surpasses Snowmass, Colorado ($23.6m), and Beverly Hills, California ($22.8m).

Most Expensive Neighborhood in New York City

Thinking of luxury real estate in New York brings Central Park to mind. However, the city’s newest neighborhood — Hudson Yards — is now the most expensive, with an average home costing $7.5m. According to The New York Times, the area has undergone a $25bn transformation, building over the West Side rail yard. It is now home to some of New York’s best prime residential and commercial developments.

Most Expensive Neighborhood in Los Angeles

The City of Angels is a world-class destination for luxury real estate, and with an average value of $18.6m, Bel Air is the priciest corner of Los Angeles’ Platinum Triangle. Located in the foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains, it‘s home to the city’s finest homes, including an $88m mansion bought by Beyonce and Jay-Z in 2017.

Most Expensive Neighborhood in Chicago

Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, the New East Side neighborhood is Chicago’s most expensive, with homes averaging $1.6m. The area is home to some of the city’s most sought-after luxury townhouses and condos, with its proximity to Chicago’s museums and Grant Park a significant part of its appeal.

Most Expensive Neighborhood Philadelphia

The City of Brotherly Love has its fair share of luxury living, with long-standing communities dating back to Philadelphia’s 17th-century origins.

The leafy Chestnut Hill neighborhood has the highest average property prices in Philadelphia, with homes selling for an average price of $1.6m.

The area is renowned for its Victorian architecture and is home to the Morris Arboretum, the city’s finest botanical garden.

Most Expensive Neighborhood in Houston

According to Forbes, 43 billionaires live in the state of Texas, and demand for luxury real estate to reflect their wealth has been soaring since the Covid-19 pandemic. Located to the west of the city, Hunters Creek Village is Houston’s most expensive neighborhood, with homes on the market for an average of $4.6m. The area is adjacent to Houston Country Club, where former president George H. W. Bush was once a member.

Methodology

To identify the most expensive neighborhoods around United States, the analysts at CashNetUSA first pulled the prices of all houses (categories = “Houses,” “Townhomes,” “Condos/Co-ops” and “Apartments”) from Zillow, which they then gathered together by neighborhood. The team then computed the mean home value in each district by adding up the home prices in each area and dividing that sum by the quantity of houses.

Finally, they ranked the neighborhoods and found the most expensive one in each U.S. state and the top ten most expensive in five major American cities.

The CashNetUSA team excluded any neighborhoods with fewer than ten listings.

Small villages or towns were considered neighborhoods (similar in size to neighborhoods within cities), e.g., Snowmass in Colorado.

The data was compiled in November 2022.

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