Zillow Names Jacksonville Top First-Time Buyers Market with 47.8% Affordable Listings
Zillow identifies Jacksonville as the best first-time buyer market among the 50 largest U.S. metros, where 47.8% of listings are affordable to a median-income household and rent burdens average 23.1%. Six of the top ten markets are in the Sun Belt, bolstered by rising inventory and lower competition.
1. Zillow Ranks Best Markets for First-Time Buyers
Zillow's analysis of the 50 largest U.S. metros ranks Jacksonville as the top market for first-time home buyers, followed by Birmingham, San Antonio, Atlanta and Houston. Measures include rent burden, share of affordable listings, competition per renter household, and share of population aged 29–43.
2. Affordability and Inventory Metrics
In Jacksonville, 47.8% of listings are affordable to a median-income household with average rent consuming 23.1% of income. Six Sun Belt metros appear in the top ten thanks to faster inventory recovery, while Midwest markets stand out for lower prices and less competition.
3. Implications for Zillow's Platform
This ranking highlights areas where Zillow's tools could see increased engagement as first-time buyers leverage affordability data and inventory insights. Sellers in these markets may face stronger price negotiations, prompting Zillow to adapt its platform features to facilitate smoother transactions.