Even as national demand slows, a handful of under-the-radar metros are heating up.
Zonda’s national Homebuyer Outlook shows that several mid-sized and affordable metros are outperforming national trends, defying the broader slowdown that’s pulled down buyer activity across much of the country.
Overall, home-shopping clicks on NewHomeSource.com are down 16% year-over-year, but markets like Cincinnati, Cape Coral, and Boise City are showing surprising strength and giving buyers more reasons to look beyond the usual big-city options.
Cincinnati: A Midwest Standout
Among the 50 largest new-home markets tracked, Cincinnati saw a 20% jump in online buyer demand, one of the strongest increases nationwide. Analysts credit the city’s attainable pricing and solid job market for keeping buyer interest strong despite higher rates. The typical new home search in Cincinnati was for homes priced between $300,000 and $500,000 — well below national medians — with buyers still showing enthusiasm for pools.
“Cincinnati is a reminder that affordability still wins,” says Ali Wolf, chief economist at Zonda. “Markets that balance livability and value continue to attract steady interest from both locals and newcomers.”
Cape Coral: Sunshine and Staying Power
In Florida, Cape Coral posted a 7% year-over-year increase in demand, even as other coastal metros cooled. Buyers are drawn to the area’s combination of new-construction communities, waterfront access, and lower-than-Miami price tags. Searches in September were dominated by three-bedroom homes between $300K and $500K, and more than 80% of shopper interest came from outside the area, suggesting it’s still a magnet for relocation buyers.
Boise City: Small-town Charm Meets Steady Demand
Boise City continues to hold its own despite national headwinds, with clicks down only 14% year-over-year — slightly better than the 15.5% average decline. Shoppers overwhelmingly preferred detached homes with three bedrooms and showed an outsized desire for communities with pools, which accounted for over 90% of amenity-related searches.
What it Means for Buyers: For consumers, these markets show that opportunity still exists — it just may not be where you expect it. Smaller metros with balanced pricing, lifestyle appeal, and strong local economies are proving resilient.
If you’ve been priced out of larger cities, consider exploring nearby or second-tier markets. With lower median home prices, growing amenities, and ongoing builder activity, these “hidden gems” might be the perfect place to find your next home — before everyone else catches on.
