When it comes to buying a home, few decisions carry more weight — financially and personally. And in today’s red-hot housing market, pinpointing the right neighborhood is more important than ever. With the median home sale price in the U.S. reaching $419,200 in Q4 2024 — a staggering 17 percent rise since the end of 2020 — finding the right place to invest can be just as challenging as it is exciting.
Luckily, for those trying to cut through the noise, Opendoor Brokerage has done the heavy lifting. The company recently released its latest analysis of the most sought-after ZIP codes in the country, offering a data-driven look at where Americans are most eager to buy homes. Topping the list this year is none other than Katy, Texas — a fast-growing suburb just west of Houston.
How the Rankings Were Calculated
To determine which ZIP codes were the most popular in 2024, Opendoor examined local Multiple Listing Service (MLS) data from the markets in which it operates. The main metric: the number of homes that went under contract within 90 days of listing. The faster the homes moved, the hotter the ZIP code.
Tracking the Hidden Gems
In addition to identifying the top ZIPs, Opendoor also highlighted “hidden gems” — lesser-known markets with a recent uptick in activity. These were evaluated based on a percentage increase in new listings from January through November 2024, offering a glimpse into emerging areas worth watching.
Why Katy, Texas, Took the Top Spot
After coming in second in 2023, Katy has officially claimed the crown. Located within the Greater Houston metro area, this family-friendly town has become a magnet for homebuyers seeking affordability, access, and a strong sense of community.
“Similar to 2023, Houston, Texas dominates the top two spots of our list — but Katy moved into the top spot over Cypress this year,” Opendoor noted. “This comes as no surprise as Houston’s housing costs are among some of the lowest in the nation.”
The Rise of Suburban Living
Affordability and space aren’t the only factors fueling Katy’s popularity. The report also reflects a broader trend: buyers are moving away from crowded city centers and gravitating toward smaller towns with strong infrastructure and quick access to urban amenities. These areas offer the best of both worlds — a quieter, more connected lifestyle, without sacrificing proximity to jobs, schools, and services.
The 10 Hottest ZIP Codes in America
Texas and Florida continue to dominate the top of the real estate charts, but the full top 10 list showcases a diverse array of rising destinations:
- 1. Katy, Texas
- 2. Cypress, Texas
- 3. San Antonio, Texas
- 4. New Braunfels, Texas
- 5. Summerville, South Carolina
- 6. Forney, Texas
- 7. Yukon, Oklahoma
- 8. Clarksville, Tennessee
- 9. Parrish, Florida
- 10. Kyle, Texas
Texas alone claims five of the top 10 spots — a clear sign of its continued real estate momentum. Cities like Summerville and Clarksville, meanwhile, represent a growing appeal for smaller Southern towns that offer charm, affordability, and room to grow.
A Closer Look at the Hidden Gem: Harrah, Oklahoma
For those seeking untapped potential, Harrah, Oklahoma might just be the next big thing. With fewer than 7,000 residents and located just outside Oklahoma City, Harrah earned the title of “hidden gem” in Opendoor’s analysis. It saw one of the largest year-over-year jumps in new listings, signaling rising interest among both buyers and developers.
Why It All Matters
The continued shift away from traditional big cities and toward suburban and exurban areas points to a fundamental change in how Americans view “home.” Whether it’s driven by affordability, lifestyle changes, or the flexibility of remote work, buyers are now prioritizing community, space, and value over proximity to urban cores.
As Opendoor explains, “Over the past three years, we’ve seen people choose to move away from city centers in favor of tighter-knit communities but still live close enough to commute and be close to the action.”
Planning to Buy? Here’s What to Do
- Do your research: Look beyond national headlines to understand what’s happening in local markets.
- Watch for emerging ZIPs: Today’s hidden gems may be tomorrow’s hottest destinations.
- Consider long-term value: Fast-growing communities often offer better appreciation over time.
Whether you’re eyeing the top ZIP in Katy or seeking a quieter escape like Harrah, there’s no shortage of opportunity for those willing to look beyond the usual hotspots. In today’s competitive housing landscape, knowing where to look just might make all the difference.
