Considering both climate and affordability, Southeast cities are the leading options for Americans who plan to move in the near future, according to a new study by the real estate website Property Shark.
Among metro areas with at least 150,000 people, the North Carolina hubs Charlotte and Raleigh are the best choices for homebuyers looking for affordable housing and year-round mild weather. People looking for warmer climates and gentle winters can find affordable options in the Sunbelt.
Philadelphia is the top choice for homebuyers who want to avoid scorching summer temperatures.
"If you ask a room full of people which type of weather is best, you'll probably get just as many different answers," said Irena Lupa of Property Shark. "However, one thing Americans do agree on: Our daily lives depend a lot on the climate we live in - and we'd rather avoid the extremes."
Lupa said nearly half of the people who want to move are factoring in the climate when deciding where to live next.
In its study, Property Shark highlighted cities where homeowners earning a median income would spend no more than 30% of their earnings on monthly housing payments. Then, the study authors factored in how many days per year are clear; how many days reach extreme temperatures; and how rainy and windy they are.
With a median income of almost $46,000 and a median home sale price of $209,000 last year, Chattanooga residents need to budget around 28% of their earnings for monthly housing payments. Chattanooga is a more economical option compared to Nashville, where homebuyers are looking at an affordability index of 30% with median income in Nashville of about $60,000 and a median home price of $300,000.
BEST CITIES FOR AFFORDABILITY AND CLIMATE
The best U.S. cities for affordability and climate are:
1. Charlotte, North Carolina
2. Raleigh, North Carolina
3. Columbus, Georgia
4. Mobile, Alabama
5. Greensboro, North Carolina
6. Norfolk, Virginia
7. Jackson, Mississippi
8. Shreveport, Louisiana
9. Nashville
10. Tallahassee, Florida
11. Chattanooga
12. Jacksonville, Florida
13. Memphis
14. Baton Rouge, Louisiana
15. Birmingham, Alabama
Source: Property Shark
- Compiled by Dave Flessner