Affordability emerged as a key concern for homebuyers in 2025, prompting many to prioritize value over location. As mortgage rates climbed and budgets tightened, buyers shifted their focus from competitive markets to finding the most space for their money. According to the Realtor.com® Most for Your Money Metro 2025 report, while the national median price per square foot remained steady at approximately $229 from January to November, several metropolitan areas provided significantly more space for less expenditure.
Anthony Smith, senior economist at Realtor.com, emphasized that the best markets in 2025 were characterized not just by low prices but by how much space buyers could obtain for their budget. “In 2025, the ‘Most for Your Money’ metro wasn’t about chasing the lowest sticker price alone,” Smith noted. “It reflected how far a buyer’s budget could stretch in terms of space.” The top-ranking areas combined lower prices per square foot with larger average home sizes, underlining the importance of space efficiency over mere affordability.
Top Five Markets for Value in 2025
Three major Texas cities dominated the list of the best-value markets: Houston, San Antonio, and Dallas. These cities distinguished themselves by consistently offering lower prices per square foot alongside larger typical home sizes. “Texas metros stood out because they consistently paired lower prices per square foot with larger homes,” Smith explained. This trend is attributed to the expansion of these markets, allowing for larger homes compared to more established cities that face space constraints.
In Houston, the median listing price per square foot was $174, with a median home price of $354,999 and an average home size of 2,093 square feet. This size exceeds the national median of 1,820 square feet by 273 square feet, making it an attractive option for buyers focused on maximizing space.
San Antonio followed closely, with a median price per square foot of $179, a median listing price of $324,900, and a typical home size of 1,933 square feet. “Price points under $200 per square foot and above-average home sizes bring bigger homes at reasonable prices,” stated Daniel Cabrera, owner and founder of Sell My House Fast SA TX. He highlighted that many homes in San Antonio include features such as flex rooms, game rooms, and spacious garages.
Atlanta also made an impressive showing, with a median price per square foot of $196 and a median listing price of $410,000. The average home size reached 2,164 square feet, showcasing the city’s appeal. Smith noted that Atlanta offered value primarily through its larger homes, which helped offset higher median prices. Real estate professional Bruce Ailion pointed out that many newcomers from states like New York and California are drawn to Atlanta’s attractive housing and amenities.
Dallas–Fort Worth also captured attention for its substantial home sizes. The median listing price per square foot was $204, with a median price of $420,000 for homes averaging 2,154 square feet. Shawn Buck, president of the Greater Fort Worth Association of Realtors, mentioned that many buyers are seeking larger homes to embrace the Texas lifestyle.
Competitive Options in Other Markets
The Chicago metropolitan area presented a different value proposition. While the homes were smaller than in many Sun Belt markets, the overall lower prices made it competitive for buyers prioritizing affordability over sheer square footage. The median listing price per square foot in Chicago was $212, with a median home price of $357,000 and an average size of 1,700 square feet. Smith highlighted that despite the smaller sizes, the market remained appealing to those focused on total cost.
As affordability remains a pressing issue for many homebuyers, the 2025 findings from Realtor.com underline a significant trend. Buyers are increasingly prioritizing space efficiency and overall value in their property searches, reshaping the landscape of the U.S. housing market. With Texas cities leading the way, it is clear that buyers are willing to explore new options in pursuit of their ideal home.
