Small Midwest Town Named Hottest Zip Code in the U.S. for Real Estate

Realtor.com released its list of the 50 hottest zip codes in 2024, and the top choice for the most desirable real estate may surprise you.

In order to determine the results, Realtor.com used an algorithm to rank cities based on market pace and demand. The towns listed are those which see the highest demand from buyers, meaning properties see a high number of unique views and typically sell much faster.

“Concentrated in larger metros across the Northeast and Midwest, these top 10 zips attracted highly qualified home buyers seeking more space without relinquishing proximity to urban amenities," explained Realtor.com’s chief economist, Danielle Hale.

Topping the list of everyone’s desired location is Gahanna, Ohio (43230). Gahanna is a cozy town with a population of about 35,000 situated in Ohio’s Franklin County, known for its three separate creeks and rivalry with the neighboring town of Bridgeport.

Hot on Gahanna’s heels is Ballwin, Missouri (63021), a western suburb of St. Louis which is recognized for its idyllic, tree-lined streets. As of 2023, the population was around 31,000.

Salem, Massachusetts (01970), has successfully overcome its supernatural reputation, stealing third place on the top 10. Salem is the prototypical New England town, known for its history of witch trials and seasonal gatherings come October.

Overall, the Northeast proved exceedingly popular amongst prospective homebuyers. Seven of the top 10 choices were located in that region, including two more towns in Massachusetts alone (Leominster and Westfield).

"While we've seen big changes in the housing market, such as a growing number of homes for sale, this year's hottest zip codes in America show common factors are driving interest in these highly competitive areas," Hale said. "Although mortgage rate relief is starting to materialize, this year's hottest zips reflect the focus on affordability that home shoppers have had over the last few years in the face of high housing costs.”

You can head over to Realtor.com to peruse the top 10 , and check out a ranking of the top 50 most desirable zip codes in America.