The last decade of rapid home price growth has severely worsened housing affordability across the U.S. A new analysis from Construction Coverage found that U.S. home values surged more than 81% between 2016 and 2026, dramatically outpacing wage growth (+47%) and reshaping housing affordability nationwide. The study analyzes Zillow and Census Bureau data to identify the states and cities with the largest increases in home prices over the last decade.

Construction Coverage has released the 2026 edition of the hottest real estate markets in the U.S., revealing where demand is still surging despite a national slowdown. While home sales are down 8.3% year-over-year and price growth has cooled to just 1.1%, certain markets—especially in the Northeast—remain highly competitive, with homes selling quickly and often above asking. The analysis ranks markets using key indicators like price growth, days on market, and bidding activity to show where buyers are still facing intense competition heading into the spring housing season.

As the spring housing market ramps up, many buyers aren’t just facing high prices and mortgage rates—they’re also inheriting older homes with higher maintenance costs. A new analysis from Construction Coverage found the median age of U.S. homes has climbed to 43 years, as years of underbuilding continue to reshape the market. The report ranks metros and states with the oldest housing stock, highlighting where buyers are most likely to encounter costly repairs, renovations, and energy inefficiencies.