Lakeland ranks as #1 city to buy a home in 2019

Screen Shot 2019-01-03 at 2.54.29 PM

Photo by Bump Galletta

We’re kicking off the year with some exciting news for our city– this week, Business Insider reported that Lakeland is the number one city to buy a home in 2019.

Stemming from new data by Realtor.com, the list was created after analyzing the housing markets across the US, considering the health of new home construction, job growth, public school ratings and the number of millennials moving in.

Lakeland’s top ranking is followed by cities such as Boston, Chattanooga + Las Vegas– so the best places to buy a home aren’t always necessarily the cheapest. Although, with a median home price hovering around $161k, Lakeland provides more cost-effective options than both neighboring Tampa ($261,362) + Orlando ($299,950).

To make the final cut, the cities determined best to purchase in are those where wage growth and new-home construction are keeping up with home price increases + stabilizing affordability.

Since our team is still fairly young (somewhere within the millennial range), we went virtual home shopping on Zillow + found our dream homes in Lakeland.

Screen Shot 2019-01-03 at 5.58.31 PM

A dreamy Nantucket getaway at 918 South Blvd

- Kristin


More from LALtoday
This year’s March Madness NCAA Tournament will feature experienced players from Lakeland and Winter Haven. Here’s when to catch their games.
We’re climbing out of the dugout and onto the diamond as we uncover the history of this iconic sports complex.
There are now two places downtown to shop for East of These’s clothing, accessories, shoes, and gifts.
Is this your dream home? If so, make your offers before the upcoming deadline.
We’re exploring a few of our reader recommendations for beachy road trips around Lakeland, Florida.
Did you get your hands on the popular Strawberry Season Passports before they sold out? If not, no worries — just follow along with our editor’s tasty travels.
Tell us which Lakeland lavatory you love the most.
Put your money where your community is and help us create a guide to small businesses by submitting your favorite local spots and sharing this page with a friend.
Are you taking a vacation this spring break or planning to make the most of the week at home? Whatever you’re up to, we have you covered with spring break ideas in and around Lakeland.
Check out this list of local spots to host your next party, reunion, or reception.