The Most Budget-friendly Cities in the US to Buy a House

Bernard Reynolds
Published Jul 18, 2025


A recent study by WalletHub reveals that buying a house in the US has become hard for many.

High mortgage rates and a shortage of available homes have made it extremely difficult, causing many to give up the search almost immediately. But, the situation varies widely across the country, with some cities offering more affordable options than others.

The problem is widespread. According to Realtor.com, to afford a three-bedroom home, a family needs to have a certain income. This calculation is based on a 10% down payment and mortgage rates of 6.65% over 30 years, ensuring housing expenses don't exceed 30% of the household income.

Check out: Quick Guide to the Best First-Time Home Buyer Loans in 2025

Based on this, states like Alabama, Kentucky, Pennsylvania, and twelve others, are where you can find homes under $100,000.

Michigan emerges as the state with the best options, particularly Flint, which is named the most affordable city for homebuyers by WalletHub. Flint's homes are priced around $61 per square foot, with about 21% of houses on the market.

Detroit, also in Michigan, ranks second due to its low prices and high availability, with 22% of homes up for grabs. Pittsburgh, Ohio, takes third place, showcasing its affordability for potential homeowners.

This information highlights the significant disparities in the US housing market, emphasizing the importance of location in finding affordable housing options.

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