T
exas takes the top spot in WalletHub's annual list of America's best real estate markets, with McKinney emerging as the standout city. This northern Dallas suburb boasts a surplus of new housing and a healthy job market, making it an attractive option for buyers.

    McKinney's success can be attributed to a decade-long building spree that has left the city with a glut of turn-key housing options. With median home prices ranking 74th cheapest out of 300 cities studied, McKinney offers affordability without sacrificing quality. The city also boasts the 11th highest rate of job growth, making it an attractive choice for those looking to relocate.

    Cary, North Carolina came in second place, thanks to its low cost of living and excellent rates of job growth. While housing costs are rising in Cary, residents can still afford their homes due to the city's strong economy and low unemployment rates. Nearby Durham, North Carolina ranked fourth, offering a mix of affordability and economic stability.

    The top five cities also included Richardson, Texas, which came in fifth, and Irvine, California, which rounded out the list. Analyst Chip Lupo notes that while the best cities may not always be the cheapest, they offer excellent housing options and long-term stability. New York City, on the other hand, struggled to make the top 100, with its unique housing stock contributing to dismal numbers in median days on market, home-price appreciation, and home prices as a percent of income.