5 Budget-Friendly US Cities Attracting Out-of-State Homebuyers

Coastal and inland metros offer affordability and quality of life for interstate movers

Jan. 29, 2026 at 2:15pm

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A new report from the National Association of Realtors shows that less than 28% of interstate movers close on a home in their first year after relocation, with many opting to rent first. However, five metros - Daphne, AL, Naples, FL, Ocala, FL, Hickory, NC, and Rockford, IL - are bucking that trend, attracting high shares of out-of-state buyers who are purchasing homes immediately. These budget-friendly markets offer affordability, plentiful inventory, and strong in-migration, making them attractive destinations for relocating buyers, especially retirees.

Why it matters

As more Americans move across state lines, either for retirement, remote work, or other lifestyle changes, the ability to quickly purchase a home in an affordable market is becoming increasingly important. These five metros highlight how certain regions are catering to the needs of interstate movers, providing them an easier path to homeownership compared to pricier coastal markets.

The details

The five metros leading the nation in share of interstate movers who are buying instead of renting are Daphne, AL (76.3%), Naples, FL (76.2%), Ocala, FL (73%), Hickory, NC (63.6%), and Rockford, IL (62.6%). These markets offer relative affordability, ample for-sale inventory, and strong in-migration, making them attractive destinations for relocating buyers, especially retirees who often have equity from a previous home sale. Coastal metros like Daphne and Naples tend to draw retirement-driven movers, while inland markets like Rockford appeal more to job-seekers looking for affordability near major cities.

  • In December 2025, the median listing price in Daphne, AL was $499,000.
  • In December 2025, the median listing price in Naples, FL was $729,725.
  • In December 2025, the median listing price in Ocala, FL was $299,000.
  • In December 2025, the median listing price in Hickory, NC was $359,000.
  • In January 2025, Rockford, IL was named the Realtor.com Hottest Market.

The players

Nadia Evangelou

Senior economist and director of real estate research at the National Association of Realtors.

Hannah Jones

Senior economic research analyst at Realtor.com.

Milena Cojkic

A real estate agent with Keller Williams Realty Signature in Rockford, Illinois.

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What they’re saying

“Many movers are likely relocating with long-term plans in mind, including retirement, remote work, or family stability, making ownership the preferred option.”

— Hannah Jones, Senior economic research analyst

“These are markets where movers don't wait to 'see how it goes', they already see the move as permanent.”

— Nadia Evangelou, Senior economist and director of real estate research

“People are able to purchase here because of the affordability.”

— Milena Cojkic, Real estate agent

What’s next

As more out-of-state movers purchase homes in these budget-friendly metros, it could tighten inventory and push up prices, especially in smaller markets with limited supply.

The takeaway

These five metros highlight how certain regions are catering to the needs of interstate movers, providing an easier path to homeownership compared to pricier coastal markets. The ability to quickly purchase an affordable home is becoming increasingly important as more Americans relocate across state lines.