The Median Home Price Myth: Unpacking the Truth Behind Affordability in Growing Markets

The notion of a median home price myth has been a topic of discussion in the real estate industry for quite some time. As cities continue to grow and develop, the question of affordability becomes increasingly important. In this article, we'll be examining the relationship between median home prices, sales volume, and affordability in rapidly growing cities.

According to our data, the median sale price in Houston, TX is $447,548 with homes typically staying on the market for 34 days. This is in stark contrast to Seattle, WA, which has a median price of $327,726. A difference of $119,822 is significant and highlights the disparity between these two cities.

Looking at the data, we can see that Houston, TX has a median sale price of $310,591, which is significantly lower than Seattle's $327,726. However, when comparing the number of homes sold, Houston outpaces Seattle with 683 homes sold compared to 781. This suggests that while prices may be higher in Seattle, the demand for homes is actually lower. For more detailed information, check out our median prices analysis.

Another interesting trend is the difference in days on market. Houston, TX has a median days on market of 23, while Seattle, WA has a median days on market of 60. This suggests that homes in Houston are selling much faster than those in Seattle, indicating a more competitive market.

In a related article, we explored the top 10 booming U.S. cities where median list prices are skyrocketing in 2025. This article highlights the cities that are experiencing the greatest growth in median home prices, and provides valuable insights for investors and homebuyers alike.

When it comes to affordability, it's essential to consider the number of homes sold, days on market, and median sale price. By examining these metrics, we can gain a better understanding of the market conditions and make more informed decisions. For more detailed information, check out our markets analysis.

Why Investors Are Shifting Focus Toward Secondary Markets in 2025 provides valuable insights into the current market trends and how they are affecting investors.

In conclusion, the median home price myth is a complex issue that requires careful examination of the data. By analyzing the median sale price, number of homes sold, and days on market, we can gain a better understanding of the market conditions and make more informed decisions. Whether you're an investor or a homebuyer, it's essential to stay informed about the current market trends and how they are affecting the cities you're interested in. For more detailed information, check out our markets analysis.

For a city like Austin, TX, the median sale price is $558,366 with homes typically staying on the market for 44 days. In contrast, Tampa, FL has a median sale price of $249,333 with homes selling in just 12 days. These numbers highlight the significant differences in market conditions between these two cities.

By examining the data and staying informed about market trends, we can make more informed decisions and avoid falling victim to the median home price myth.