Realtor.com Reveals Most Affordable US College Towns

Realtor.com economists have identified America's most affordable college towns, offering a path to homeownership for recent graduates and young professionals. The analysis, conducted as the fall semester begins, examined 2025 median listing prices for residential properties in towns anchored by a Division I university. To ensure reliable estimates, markets with fewer than 15 listings were excluded, leaving 231 markets to be ranked by their median asking price. The study found that the South leads in affordability, accounting for approximately 38% of the ranked markets, followed by the Midwest at around 30%. The West and Northeast regions, generally known for higher housing costs, represent 20% and 12% of the rankings, respectively. The top five most affordable Division I college towns are Detroit, Jackson (MS), Pine Bluff (AR), Macomb (IL), and Peoria (IL). Hannah Jones, a senior economist at Realtor.com, explained that these towns typically benefit from lower land and construction costs, slower population growth, and older housing stock that predates recent price surges. This combination allows home prices to remain aligned with local wages rather than being driven up by demand exceeding supply. Three of the top five affordable towns—Detroit, Macomb, and Peoria—are located in the Midwest, a region where the typical home price is still accessible for households earning the median salary. Other towns recognized for their housing affordability include Toledo. The analysis underscores the economic realities facing young adults seeking to enter the housing market, highlighting specific geographic areas where affordability remains a key advantage. The inclusion of Division I university towns suggests a focus on locations that offer not only economic stability but also vibrant community life and amenities attractive to a younger demographic. This research provides valuable insights for individuals and families considering relocation for educational or career opportunities, prioritizing financial accessibility in their housing decisions. The methodology focused on median listing prices, a key indicator of market entry costs for potential homebuyers. By excluding markets with limited inventory, the study aimed to present a more robust and representative picture of housing affordability in college towns across the United States. The regional breakdown further emphasizes the distinct housing market dynamics present in different parts of the country, with the South and Midwest emerging as prime locations for budget-conscious homebuyers.