T
his year's hottest housing markets are shifting westward, marking a significant change in America's economic centers. The Rust Belt dominated last year's Zillow market ranking, but this year's forecast points to a different trend. According to Zillow, the top-ranked markets are characterized by low inventory and relatively affordable prices with strong job and wage growth.
Buffalo remains at the top of the list for the second consecutive year, while several other metros have fallen significantly or dropped off the list entirely between 2024 and 2025. Hartford and Richmond are emerging as rising stars in 2025, where sellers hold a significant advantage due to homes selling quickly.
In contrast, San Francisco and Memphis are experiencing a decline, with homes staying on the market longer and expected home value depreciation. Across most of the US, buyers and sellers are at a stalemate, with affordability and inventory being key factors.
