The Cheapest Cities In The US, Where Home Renovations Are Affordable

The Cheapest Cities In The US, Where Home Renovations Are Affordable

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By Shikha Negi
  • A recent study by Highland Cabinetry found the top ten big U.S. cities where home renovations are the most affordable. 
  • Fort Worth came in first place, thanks to its low median house price and some of the cheapest renovation costs in the country.
  • Austin is the best city for modern renovation projects, while Atlanta is a great place for home upgrades owing to a strong per capita income and the highest number of home improvement loans per 100,000 people.
The Cheapest Cities In The US

A recent study by Highland Cabinetry has identified the top ten large U.S. cities where house renovations are most affordable.

A recent study by Highland Cabinetry has identified the top ten major U.S. cities where house renovations are most affordable. The analysis considered factors such as median house prices, average contractor rates, median house age, and the proportion of homes built since 2010. 

Additional metrics such as per capita income, housing occupancy rates, and home improvement loan activity were also considered. Each city was scored and ranked based on these parameters, providing a comprehensive overview of where homeowners can get the most value for their renovation budgets.

A spokesperson from Highland Cabinetry commented on the study: 

“When planning a renovation, focus on projects that make a big impact, like modern kitchens or energy-efficient upgrades, while also adding long-term value. Compare contractor rates to get the best deal, and tackle smaller DIY updates to save money. If financing, prioritise timeless improvements that balance personal style with broad appeal. The right planning can transform your space without overspending.”

The Top 10 U.S. cities for affordable home renovations

1. Fort Worth, Texas

Fort Worth leads the list with a score of 89.87. The city boasts an affordable median house price of $299,130 and offers some of the lowest renovation costs, starting at $54,855. Approximately 22.5% of its homes have been built since 2010, providing ample opportunities for modern updates. The median house age is 28 years, indicating a relatively young housing stock. The city's growing population of 996,756 reflects its expanding economy and housing market.

In recent years, Fort Worth has experienced a notable increase in home values. As of December 2024, the median home price was $345,000, marking a 4.5% rise from the previous year. Homes typically sell after approximately 50 days on the market, suggesting a somewhat competitive market.

The city's robust economic growth, coupled with a relatively low cost of living, makes it an attractive destination for both new residents and investors. The combination of affordable housing and renovation costs allows homeowners to invest in substantial improvements, thereby increasing property values and enhancing living conditions.

Image credit: Miami Crete

2. Miami, Florida

Miami ranks second with a score of 77.48. Despite a higher median house price of $584,467, the city stands out with the lowest contractor rates in the study at $23.46 per hour. It also leads in home improvement loans per capita, with 1,888.38 loans per 100,000 residents, indicating a strong interest in renovations among homeowners. The median house age is 39 years, and 9.7% of homes have been built since 2010. Miami's population is 460,289.

The city's older housing stock presents numerous opportunities for renovation projects, allowing homeowners to modernise properties and potentially increase their value. Miami's vibrant culture and desirable climate continue to attract new residents, sustaining demand in the housing market.

3. Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta secured the third position with a score of 75.43. The city has a median house price of $391,178 and the highest per capita income on the list at $64,000. It also has the most active home improvement loan market, issuing about 2,305.11 loans per 100,000 residents. The median house age is 28 years, with 16.6% of homes built since 2010. Atlanta's population stands at 514,465.

Atlanta's strong economy and high per capita income provide homeowners with the financial means to invest in substantial renovation projects. The city's active home improvement loan market further facilitates these endeavours, enabling residents to enhance their living spaces and increase property values.

4. Austin, Texas

Austin ranks fourth with a score of 75.25. The city has the most modern housing stock, with 33.3% of homes built after 2010 and a median house age of just 20 years. The median house price is $513,622, and renovation costs start at $54,855. Austin's population is 984,567, reflecting its rapid growth and development.

Austin's relatively new housing stock means that renovation projects often focus on modernising interiors or incorporating the latest technologies, rather than extensive structural repairs. The city's dynamic growth and influx of new residents continue to drive demand in the housing market.

5. Raleigh, North Carolina

Raleigh takes fifth place with a score of 74.42. With a median house price of $437,704 and 27.3% of homes built in the last decade, Raleigh offers a relatively modern housing stock. The city issues 1,016.31 home improvement loans per 100,000 residents, indicating a strong demand for home improvements. The median house age is 21 years, and the population is 487,942.

Raleigh's combination of a modern housing stock and active home improvement loan market suggests that homeowners are keen to invest in their properties. The city's growing population and strong economy further support this trend.

Image credit: The Old House

6. Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville ranks sixth with a score of 73.22. The city shares a high occupancy rate of 92% with Austin, and 24.2% of its homes have been built since 2010. The median house price is $428,358, and renovation costs start at $58,596. Nashville's population is 687,150, reflecting its growing appeal.

Nashville's high occupancy rate indicates a strong demand for housing, which can drive up property values and make renovation projects a worthwhile investment. The city's vibrant cultural scene and expanding economy continue to attract new residents.

7. Jacksonville, Florida

Jacksonville takes seventh place with a score of 72.23. It has the lowest median house price on the list at $290,837, making it a more affordable option for homebuyers. The median house age is 29 years, with 19.9% of homes built since 2010. The city issues 258.83 home improvement loans per 100,000 residents, and its population is 997,164.

Jacksonville's affordable housing market provides opportunities for buyers to invest in renovation projects that can enhance property values. The city's substantial population and economic growth further support the housing

8. Memphis, Tennessee

Memphis holds the eighth spot with a score of 71.59. Despite having the lowest per capita income on the list at $31,000, the city demonstrates that significant renovations can be achieved on a budget. Affordable contractor rates at $29.51 per hour and an accessible housing market make Memphis a viable choice for homeowners looking to maximise their renovation investments. The median house price is $145,930, with a median house age of 39 years and 9.1% of homes built since 2010. The population is 613,110.

Memphis's rich cultural heritage and historic architecture offer unique renovation opportunities. The city's affordable housing market allows homeowners to invest in substantial improvements, enhancing both property values and living conditions.

9. Houston, Texas

Houston ranks ninth with a score of 71.38. As the third Texas city on the list, 23.1% of its homes have been built after 2010. The median house price is $264,520, and renovation costs start at $54,855. Houston's vast population of 2,319,119 and expansive housing market offer homeowners a range of opportunities for upgrades and improvements.

Houston's diverse economy and growing population contribute to a dynamic housing market. The city's relatively young housing stock provides opportunities for modernisation and customisation, allowing homeowners to tailor their spaces to contemporary tastes.

10. Mesa, Arizona

Mesa rounds out the top ten with a score of 70.46. Homeowners here are proactive, with the city issuing the second-highest number of home improvement loans per capita at 2,271.56 per 100,000 residents. Competitive contractor rates at $28.69 per hour and its location in the Southwest make Mesa an attractive destination for homeowners eager to transform their spaces without substantial investments. The median house price is $438,978, with a median house age of 28 years and 16.7% of homes built since 2010. The population is 513,567.

Mesa's active home improvement loan market indicates a strong commitment among residents to enhancing their properties. The city's affordable contractor rates and relatively modern housing stock make it an appealing choice for those looking to undertake renovation projects.

Final thoughts 

The study by Highland Cabinetry highlights the importance of considering various factors when planning a home renovation. Cities like Fort Worth, Miami, and Atlanta offer a combination of affordable housing, competitive contractor rates, and modern housing stock, making them ideal locations for homeowners looking to renovate. 

Each of these cities presents unique opportunities for homeowners to improve their living spaces without incurring excessive costs. By carefully considering the factors outlined in the study, homeowners can make informed decisions that maximise the value of their renovation projects. Whether updating a modern home in Austin or restoring a historic property in Memphis, these cities offer a range of options for cost-effective and impactful renovations.

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