The empire state building is lit up at night in new york city

🏡Top U.S. Metro Areas Where Homes Still Cost Under $300k

As affordability continues to shape the real estate conversation, many buyers across the country are shifting their attention to markets where homeownership is still within reach — especially as today’s economy remains uncertain.


With mortgage rates hovering around the high-6% range and inventory growing year over year (+15.3% nationally), some buyers are finding new opportunities in unexpected places. Realtor.com recently released a list of metro areas where buyers can still find homes priced below $300,000 — roughly $125,000 less than the national median.


These metros stand out not only for their prices, but also for lifestyle perks, employment access, culture, and long-term value.

📍Top 10 Affordable Metros Under 300k:


Each of the following cities offers a blend of affordability, amenities, and room for future growth:

1. Muncie, Indiana:



  • Median list price: $178,250
  • Home to Ball State University and surrounded by nature — including the 750-acre Prairie Creek Reservoir — Muncie offers college-town energy with small-town charm.
Aerial view of downtown Muncie, Indiana

2. Toledo, Ohio:



  • Median list price: $217,950
  • Named Realtor.com’s #1 real estate market for Spring 2025, Toledo offers a thriving arts scene, a respected museum, and relatively low climate risk.
Skyline of Toledo, Ohio

3. Battle Creek, Michigan:



  • Median list price: $229,999
  • Located between Detroit and Chicago, Battle Creek is known for its access to parks, community events, and — yes — the famous National Cereal Festival.
Michigan Avenue, looking west from Monument Square

4. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania:



  • Median list price: $250,000
  • Recently ranked the most affordable major metro in the country, Pittsburgh offers pro sports, a growing food culture, and walkable urban neighborhoods.
Aerial view of Downtown Pittsburgh, PA

5. Cleveland, Ohio:


  • Median list price: $259,900
  • With lakeshore beauty, a revitalized downtown, and diverse neighborhoods, Cleveland combines affordability with culture and convenience.
Night cityscape of Cleveland, OH

6. Scranton-Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania:



  • Median list price: $262,350
  • Best known as the setting of The Office, this region now boasts a revitalized downtown, access to the Pocono Mountains, and lower-than-average property taxes.
Scranton, Pennsylvania skyline

7. Buffalo-Cheektowaga, New York:



  • Median list price: $267,450
  • Located near Toronto and a quick flight from NYC, Buffalo offers four seasons, passionate sports culture — and the original hot buffalo wing..
Buffalo-Cheektowaga, NY

8. Wichita, Kansas:



  • Median list price: $285,000
  • Wichita has gained attention as a rising Midwestern real estate hub with a lively food scene, arts community, and expanding buyer demand.
Aerial view of Wichita, Kansasa

9. Frankfort, Kentucky:


  • Median list price: $292,050
  • Situated along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, Frankfort blends historic charm with access to Lexington and Louisville — major employment and travel hubs.
Historic district of Fankfort, Kentucky:

10. St. Louis, Missouri:




  • Median list price: $295,900
  • With a growing tech sector, respected zoo, and popular green spaces, St. Louis offers an increasingly appealing balance of affordability and culture.
Aerial view of St. Louis, Missouri at night

⭐️ Why These Matters for Buyers:


As interest rates, inflation, and cost of living continue to influence housing decisions, many homebuyers — especially first-timers — are expanding their search radius in favor of affordability and long-term value.


These markets prove that it’s still possible to:

✔ find a home under $300K

✔ maintain quality of life

✔ live near culture, jobs, and amenities


Whether someone is relocating, investing, or simply searching for affordability, these metros may offer surprising opportunities.