Appleton tops Fall 2026 housing market ranking
SPY•Appleton, Wisconsin, topped the Fall 2026 housing market ranking released Oct. 29. Midwest and Northeast markets took 19 of the top 20 spots as the 30-year fixed mortgage rate averaged 7.4%, while typical payments in 15 leading markets remained below the national level of $2,863.
1. Regional leaders
Appleton, Wisconsin, topped the Fall 2026 housing market ranking. Midwest and Northeast markets claimed 19 of the top 20 spots as buyers sought value amid higher mortgage rates.
2. Rates and prices
The 30-year fixed mortgage rate averaged 7.4%, up from 6.27% a year earlier, lifting comparable monthly principal-and-interest payments roughly 12%. Typical principal-and-interest payments in 15 leading markets were below the national level of $2,863. Listing prices rose annually in 11 top-ranked markets, compared with a 1.4% decline in the national median in September.
