If you’re considering a move, it’s important to evaluate new housing markets based on quality of life and the cost of living. In this article, we’ll explore six emerging urban housing markets in 2025, helping you pinpoint your next destination to call home .
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Atlanta
Southern charm goes a long way, which is why Atlanta makes the list of emerging urban housing markets. The population in the Atlanta metro area increased by 1.42% between 2023 and 2024, making it one of the fastest-growing cities.
Filled with activities and culture, Atlanta features mild weather, abundant food options and plenty of outdoor areas.
Atlanta’s unemployment rate is 6.4% with an average city population of 668,500. Due to rising home prices and population growth, Atlanta’s cost of living is 2% higher than the national average.
“Atlanta is a city with consistently strong growth, plenty of job opportunities, and a thriving cultural scene,” said Martin Orefice, the CEO of Rent to Own Atlanta .
“This makes it an especially desirable destination for everyone, from young professionals to retirees.”
Do you spend a lot of time outdoors? If so, you should check out Salt Lake City.
It has one of the best backyards in the country, with five national parks and numerous world-class ski resorts. The steady weather makes it easy to enjoy various outdoor activities year-round. There are also indoor activities, like the Utah Museum of Fine Arts, the Hogle Zoo and different performing arts venues.
Salt Lake City is an up-and-coming urban housing market because of its low unemployment, young median age and affordable rents. The unemployment rate in Salt Lake City is only 3.68%, much lower than in many other urban areas. In addition, the median age is 34, and the median household income is just over $81,000.
With a plethora of activities and job opportunities, you might want to consider calling Salt Lake City home.
“Salt Lake City is [a] mountain west city ready for growth,” said Ben Klesinger, the co-founder and CEO of Reliant Insurance Group .
“It has a thriving economy focused on finance, healthcare and tech. Companies like Goldman Sachs, Micron and Qualtrics are bringing high-paying jobs to the area.
“With stunning natural scenery, an outdoor-focused culture and a low cost of living, Salt Lake City should attract more residents and businesses over the next several years.”
Add Milwaukee to your list if you’re ready to brave cold winters.
Milwaukee contains over 575,000 residents and is called home by many large companies, like Northwestern Mutual, Harley-Davidson, Fiserv and Milwaukee Tool. This gives you options when entering the job market.
Milwaukee also offers affordable housing, with the median home price being $154,544 and the median monthly rent staying around $1,032. Even better, the cost of living in Milwaukee is the same as the national average.
If you are considering moving to Milwaukee, don’t forget your winter jacket!
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Charlotte, North Carolina
If the cold isn’t for you, check out Charlotte. Charlotte sits between white sand beaches and the Appalachian Mountains, giving you the best of both worlds.
Charlotte has grown to the second largest banking hub in the United States, which adds to its consistent population growth. Despite growth on all fronts, Charlotte has maintained the classic Southern charm that many individuals are after.
With a growing business sector, the unemployment rate in Charlotte is 4.82%. Housing is slightly more expensive at a median price of $359,466; however, the median household income is nearly $89,000.
Charlotte checks the box if you’re after an urban city setting wrapped in Southern hospitality.
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Naples, Florida
Many of the 2025 urban housing markets listed here attract a younger population. If you are looking for an older age distribution, don’t rule out Naples.
The median age in Naples is 53, and the city has a population of around 122,500. The unemployment rate is a mere 3.57%, and the median household income is over $98,000.
Naples is nestled between the Everglades and the Gulf of Mexico. This urban city is a preferred destination for many retirees, with several pristine beaches, dozens of golf courses and various fine dining options. And moving toward the center of Naples, you’ll see acres of farm fields.
Lexington is the perfect blend of Midwest and Southern cultures. This urban city is home to the University of Kentucky and flourishes with the help of the equestrian industry.
The cost of living in Lexington is 6% lower than the national average. You should plan on paying around $1,175 in rent or $268,000 to purchase a home.
The warm weather and beautiful landscape attract both young families and professional, making the median age just 37 years old. If you enjoy the equestrian industry, local cuisine and college sports, Lexington might be the place for you.
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