With soaring mortgage rates, steep home prices, and rising living expenses, millennials are on the search for places to live with the best quality of life and affordability. Real Estate app Houzeo recently released a report of the best cities to move to in 2024, whether you’re a young adult, a family, a retiree, or a professional seeking growth. In creating the guide, Houzeo analyzed data from housing prices to community well-being scores, drawing from sources like Zillow, the US Census Bureau, and the Community Well-Being Index.

How to Relocate without Breaking the Bank

Starting a new chapter doesn’t have to drain your finances. These three strategies are great to follow for an economically savvy relocation:

1. Look into Mortgage Options: Look into FHA, VA, or USDA loans to find low downpayment solutions. Consider the benefits of no-closing-cost mortgages or down payment assistance programs to ease upfront costs.
2. Compare Mortgage Lenders: Comparing mortgage lenders could potentially save you a staggering $84,000, so it’s crucial to analyze interest rates, loan offerings, and policies.
3. Bypass Realtor Fees: Embrace the digital era by starting your home search on platforms like Houzeo and Zillow. These platforms enable you to buy directly and save on buyer agent commissions.

Prime Locations for 2024

If you’re looking for a new city to call home this year, here are the top seven:

1. Green Bay, Wisconsin

With a median home price of $241,000 and a vibrant, close-knit community, Green Bay is a great city for affordability and quality living. Residents enjoy significant savings on mortgage expenses compared to the national average, alongside enriching cultural and recreational activities.

2. Huntsville, Alabama

Huntsville is the ideal place for those pursuing higher education and careers in tech and space exploration. Its burgeoning tech scene and average home price of $278,500 make it a great place to live.

3. Raleigh, North Carolina

Raleigh’s thriving Research Triangle Park and vibrant community life, complemented by an 88% job satisfaction rate among residents, place it high on the list for potential movers.

4. Boulder, Colorado

Known as the “happiest city” with a bustling tech industry, Boulder has a high community well-being score and a plethora of mental wellness and social activities, though at a higher cost of living with a median home price nearing a million dollars.

5. Sarasota, Florida

Sarasota is a great place for retirees, with a median home price of $462.710.

6. Naples, Florida

This city has a promising job market and an environment that balances professional growth with quality living. However, the cost of living is 20% above the national average.

7. Portland, Maine

Portland has an exceptional public school system and offers a balanced lifestyle. Its low unemployment rate and strong emphasis on education make it a great place to live.

Read more about Houzeo’s findings here.