Most expensive real estate markets in the U.S. (2024)

The US has a diverse and dynamic housing market, with prices varying from state to state and region to region. In this article, we explore the top 10 most expensive states to buy a home, according to the Zillow Home Value Index.

Top 10 most expensive states to buy a home in the US

The U.S. has a diverse housing market with prices varying by state and region. The top 10 most expensive states to buy a home, according to the Zillow Home Value Index, include Hawaii, California, District of Columbia, Washington, Massachusetts, Colorado, Colorado, Duck, Oregon, New Jersey and Idaho. These states offer a variety of benefits to homebuyers, ranging from natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities to a strong job market and quality of life. However, they also come with a higher price tag, so it's important to carefully consider your options and budget before making a buying decision.

1. Hawaii

Hawaii is known for its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and breathtaking scenery. However, it is also the most expensive state to buy a home with a Zillow Home Value Index of $834,582. The high cost of living and limited space on the islands are factors in the high cost of real estate.

2. California

California is home to some of the most attractive cities in the United States, such as Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego. With a Zillow Home Value Index of $728,133, it is the second most expensive state to buy a home. The state's burgeoning technology industry, warm climate and stunning coastline are major draws for home buyers.

3. District of Columbia

The District of Columbia, also known as Washington, D.C., is the capital of the United States and the center of political activity. With a Zillow Home Value Index of $627,158, it is the third most expensive state to buy a home. The city's diverse neighborhoods, historic landmarks, and growing job market are factors in the high real estate values.

4. Washington, D.C.

Washington State is home to major technology companies like Amazon and Microsoft, as well as stunning natural scenery. With a Zillow Home Value Index of $562,936, it is the fourth most expensive state to buy a home. A strong job market, quality of life, and outdoor recreational opportunities are major draws for homebuyers.

5. Massachusetts

Massachusetts is a state rich in history, culture, and education. With a Zillow Home Value Index of $558,312, it is the fifth most expensive state to buy a home. High quality of life, world-renowned universities, and a strong job market are factors contributing to the high cost of real estate.

6. Colorado

Colorado is known for its stunning Rocky Mountains, outdoor recreational opportunities, and a growing technology industry. With a Zillow Home Value Index of $539,639, it is the sixth most expensive state to buy a home. The state's strong economy, natural beauty, and quality of life are the main attractions for homebuyers.

7. Duck

Utah is a state with stunning national parks, a developing job market, and a growing technology industry. With a Zillow Home Value Index of $506,072, it is the seventh most expensive state to buy a home. Natural beauty, quality of life, and opportunities for outdoor recreation are the main attractions for homebuyers.

8. Oregon

Oregon is known for its stunning coastline, outdoor recreational opportunities, and quality of life. With a Zillow Home Value Index of $485,474, it is the eighth most expensive state to buy a home. The state's strong economy, natural beauty, and welcoming communities are major attractions for homebuyers.

9. New Jersey

New Jersey is a state with a rich history, diverse population, and strong economy. With a Zillow Home Value Index of $451,558, it is the ninth most expensive state for buying a home. Proximity to major cities like New York and Philadelphia, along with a strong job market and quality of life, contribute to the high property values.

10.

Idaho is a state with stunning natural beauty, opportunities for outdoor recreation, and a growing technology industry. With a Zillow Home Value Index of $435,373, it is the tenth most expensive state for buying a home. The state's strong economy, low cost of living compared to other states on this list, and quality of life are the main attractive factors for homebuyers.

Top 10 most expensive counties to buy a house in the USA

In addition to the most expensive states in terms of real estate, the United States also has counties that boast some of the highest housing prices in the country. In this article, we will look at the top 10 most expensive counties to buy a home in the U.S., according to the Zillow Home Value Index.

1. Nantucket County, Massachusetts

Nantucket County, located in Massachusetts, has a Zillow Home Value Index of $2,545,939, making it the most expensive county to buy a home in the United States. This picturesque island off the coast of Cape Cod is a popular vacation destination known for its historic architecture, beaches, and small-town charm.

2. Pitkin County, Colorado

Pitkin County, located in Colorado, is home to the world-renowned ski resort of Aspen. With a Zillow Home Value Index of $2,003,223, it is the second most expensive county to buy a home in the United States. The natural beauty of the county, top-notch skiing, and luxurious amenities attract wealthy homebuyers from around the globe.

3. Teton County, Wyoming

Teton County, located in Wyoming, is home to the magnificent Grand Teton National Park and the luxurious ski resort town of Jackson Hole. With a Zillow Home Value Index of $1,644,961, it is the third most expensive county for home purchases in the United States. The natural beauty of the county, opportunities for outdoor recreation, and low tax rates are major attractions for wealthy homebuyers.

4. San Mateo County, California

San Mateo County, located in California, is part of the San Francisco Bay Area and is home to major technology companies such as Facebook and Oracle. With a Zillow Home Value Index of $1,497,976, it is the fourth most expensive county for home purchases in the United States. The county's strong job market, moderate climate, and proximity to San Francisco make it an attractive place for affluent homebuyers.

5. Santa Clara County, California

Santa Clara County, also located in the San Francisco Bay Area, is home to Silicon Valley and major tech companies like Apple and Google. With a Zillow Home Value Index of $1,462,347, it is the fifth most expensive county for home purchases in the United States. The county's growing tech industry, diverse population, and excellent schools attract wealthy homebuyers from around the world.

6. Marin County, California

Marin County, located near the famous Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, is known for its natural beauty, charming small towns, and affluent residents. With a Zillow Home Value Index of $1,416,752, it is the sixth most expensive county to buy a home in the United States. The county's proximity to San Francisco, mild climate, and opportunities for outdoor recreation make it a desirable location for wealthy homebuyers.

7. Dukes County, Massachusetts

Dukes County, located in Massachusetts, includes the islands of Martha's Vineyard and Gosnold. With a Zillow Home Value Index of $1,378,540, it is the seventh most expensive county to buy a home in the United States. The picturesque beauty of the county, its historic charm, and the tranquil lifestyle are major attractions for wealthy homebuyers.

8. San Miguel County, Colorado

San Miguel County, located in Colorado, includes the picturesque mountain towns of Telluride and Mountain Village. With a Zillow Home Value Index of $1,356,052, it is the eighth most expensive county for home buying in the United States. World-class skiing, stunning mountain scenery, and opportunities for outdoor recreation make it a popular destination for affluent homebuyers.

9. San Francisco County, California

San Francisco County, located in the northern part of California, is known for its vibrant cultural scene, diverse neighborhoods, and iconic landmarks such as the Golden Gate. With a Zillow Home Value Index of $1,277,114, it ranks as the ninth most expensive county for home purchases in the United States. The county's strong job market, growing tech industry, and urban amenities make it a desirable location for affluent homebuyers.

10. New York County, New York

New York County, commonly known as Manhattan, is the most densely populated borough of New York City and is famous for its iconic skyscrapers, world-class museums, and diverse neighborhoods. With a Zillow Home Value Index of $1,146,577, it is the tenth most expensive county to buy a home in the United States. The borough's status as a global center for finance, culture, and entertainment makes it a highly desirable location for affluent homebuyers.

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