Rockford, Illinois tops US housing market list

Rockford, Illinois, has been named the hottest housing market in the United States for December, according to Realtor.com, marking its first time at the top after overtaking Manchester, New Hampshire. The city's affordability, with a median home price of $242,000, significantly below the national average of $356,000, is attracting a surge in buyers, leading to homes selling in an average of just 43 days. This increased demand has resulted in a remarkable 21% rise in home prices year-over-year, while national prices have decreased by 1.8%. Zillow also identifies Buffalo, New York, as the hottest market for 2025, with Indianapolis following closely behind. The trend shows a strong preference for affordable Midwest cities, as many top markets are located in this region. Overall, the housing market is experiencing a shift, with buyers increasingly seeking affordability and livability away from high-priced coastal areas.