Top 10 Southern Cities Where the Housing Market Is Heating Up

The South is red hot, and not just because of the weather. According to research from Realtor.com, there are ten Southern cities where buyer interest is strongest and homes are selling fast.

If you're looking to make smart homeowner moves, these spots can offer more than curb appeal. With their affordability, access to high-quality healthcare, and lifestyle perks, they have what it takes to make your golden years shine.

Let's take a look at the top 10 Southern cities that were ranked the hottest Southern markets, and how they could be the right fit for your next chapter.

Editor's note: All median price data is from the website Realtor.com unless otherwise stated.

Hotness Rank: 82.3
Median list price: $788K

Midland is a hub for the oil industry, enjoying high incomes and a large housing stock. This combination attracts professionals tied to the logistics and energy sectors. Retirees flock to Midland due to lower living costs compared to other Texas metros.

If you're seeking value without pressure and a high cost of living, you could make this affordable town your home base during retirement.

Hotness Rank: 83.83
Median list price: $649K

The scenic charm of the Blue Ridge Mountains is one draw for this hot housing market. In addition, Roanoke offers lower housing prices, easy access to healthcare, and a sweet spot for both arts and nature lovers.

Roanoke could be the right spot for you if you want to live the simple life, enjoy affordable home prices, and avoid harsh winters in a market that isn't overheated yet.

Hotness Rank: 84.66
Median list price: $552K

This affluent Atlanta suburb has a lot to offer, from walkable neighborhoods to expansive parks and outdoor activities. Since it increasingly attracts professionals fleeing crowded city centers, it's a hot real estate spot.

If you own a home in Alpharetta, you could make smart money moves by selling as the market is picking up. On the other hand, the city is great for retirees who have the budget for upscale comfort or are willing to rent.

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Hotness Rank: 85.42
Median list price: $880K

If you're already in Florida and searching for a more affordable, suburban location, look no further than Oviedo. It's close to Disney World and Orlando, but not enough to be overrun with tourists.

Besides its family-friendly vibe, Oviedo is a good choice for retirees who want peace of mind — its property crime rates are exceptionally low — and a charming community with accessible services.

Hotness Rank: 86.27
Median list price: $472K

The main attraction of Grapevine is its proximity to the downtown areas of both Dallas and Fort Worth. The city offers newcomers a combination of charm and metro amenities, a rich heritage, and a thriving downtown.

Grapevine can be a charming home if you're looking for solid infrastructure, strong neighborhoods, and accessible healthcare — all at an affordable cost.

Hotness Rank: 86.78
Median list price: $788K

Cary is a booming city, part of the Research Triangle, celebrated for its high-quality parks, amenities, and vibrant industries. It's close to Raleigh, and its proximity makes the cost of living less affordable than our other entries.

This community offers retirees top-tier healthcare, but also higher-than-average prices. On the flip side, home resale values are great if you're willing to sell now and relocate to another one of these Southern gems.

Hotness Rank: 87.63
Median list price: $649K

With its Southern charm, affordable housing, and vital urban core, Birmingham has increasingly been catching the eye of retirees looking for a Southern destination. The city has a strong community identity, welcoming residents with hospitality and great natural vistas.

Keep an eye on Birmingham if you're looking to relocate in the South. The city will only increase its value as its appeal continues to grow.

Hotness Rank: 89.28
Median list price: $552K

A suburb of Richmond, Virginia, Henrico offers easy access to this vibrant, bustling city. It's also in the best spot to enjoy outdoor pursuits, cultural venues, and delicious cuisine.

Henrico is a solid option for retirees who seek a balance between urban amenities and an affordable cost of living. Living in this location will make it easy to access high-quality healthcare without breaking the bank.

Hotness Rank: 91.73
Median list price: $880K

Warrenton, Virginia, is barely an hour away from DC, but you wouldn't guess it once you discover its rural calm, rich history, and numerous equestrian farms.

The proximity to the nation's capital gives Warrenton properties high value retention. However, it's not an easy entry-level market for retirees; its cost of living is almost 35% higher than the average.

Hotness Rank: 92
Median list price: $472K

A part of the Baltimore-Columbia-Towson metro, Forest Hill is at the top of the Southern hot list. It offers affordability and proximity to major cities, making it a major attraction for buyers who want to upgrade their lifestyles without giving up convenience.

If you pick Forest Hill for retirement, you'll find yourself in a sought-after destination with robust potential for growth and possibly the greatest financial stability of all these Southern housing markets.

The South's 10 hottest housing markets can offer you affordability, quality of life, and metro access, while giving you opportunities to tap into your home's equity during retirement.

However, you should look beyond what's trending. Hot markets can overheat, making prices unaffordable. Instead, focus on places with slower appreciation, such as areas with growing numbers of retirees, which can preserve your retirement resources better.