Average Homes in the Mountain State Are Nearly Five Times Cheaper Than Hawaii’s Sky-High $1.5 Million Listings, as Midwestern and Southern States Offer Top Value.
A new analysis of real estate figures has revealed a significant disparity in the US housing market, with West Virginia, Iowa, and Mississippi emerging as the nation’s most affordable destinations for budget-conscious property seekers.
The report, conducted by exterior renovation specialists Craftsmen Home Improvements, shows first-time buyers can find exceptional value far from the priciest coastal markets.
From June 2024 to May 2025, West Virginia topped the charts for affordability, boasting an average home listing price of just $321,181. Its median listing price was also the cheapest nationwide at $247,075. This makes the Mountain State a critical target for budget buyers, as its average price is nearly five times lower than the most expensive state in the nation.
Iowa and Mississippi followed closely, offering stable, affordable options. Iowa secured the second spot with homes averaging $348,228, while Mississippi came in third at $354,788, delivering Southern value with a strong median price of $294,850.
The top five most economical markets were rounded out by Ohio ($364,345 average) and Indiana ($367,225 average), confirming the Midwest as a region of prime opportunity.
The Pricey Peak: Hawaii’s $1.5 Million Barrier
On the opposite end of the spectrum, Hawaii smashed property records, leading the pack with an average home listing price of a staggering $1,540,154 over the past year. The state also holds the highest median listing price at $799,000, confirming its status as the priciest US market.
Coastal hubs dominate the high-cost markets. New York took second place, averaging $1,492,267, while sun-soaked California was third, with homes listing for an average of $1,472,499.
Dan Bydlon, President and Owner of Craftsmen Home Improvements, noted that the dramatic price differences are rooted in broader economic factors. “These housing price variations across states reflect broader economic factors including local job markets, geographic desirability, and housing supply constraints,” Bydlon said. “The data shows that coastal states and areas with natural amenities command premium prices.”
The findings illustrate that while high-demand areas like Florida offer a massive volume of listings (156,974 active listings), true affordability for first-time buyers remains concentrated in the heartland and the Appalachians.
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