Due to strong demographics, robust job growth, and increased investor interest in stable assets amid inflation, real estate remains my top choice for building wealth. Many savvy investors are turning to real estate to capitalize on its stability and income potential.

With the ongoing pandemic, people are reassessing where they want to live. Big cities like New York City, LA, and Washington DC are becoming less attractive due to high prices, congestion, and the desire for more space—especially as remote work becomes more common.

Thanks to remote work options, people aren’t tied to city centers anymore, leading to a shift towards less densely populated areas. This trend is likely to accelerate as the pandemic continues to influence lifestyle choices.

Personally, as a family man, I’m looking for more space and safer environments for my children. However, buying property in dense urban areas like San Francisco comes with an astronomical price tag.

If you’re considering real estate investments across the country, here are some of the best cities to focus on right now. To determine these cities, I’ve analyzed migration patterns and property valuations, prioritizing states that offer the most potential for growth.

South Carolina tops the list, followed by Vermont, South Dakota, and Tennessee, among others. These states offer promising opportunities for real estate investment, considering both migration trends and economic factors.

According to the Urban Land Institute (ULI), cities like Austin, Raleigh/Durham, Nashville, Charlotte, and Orlando stand out as top picks for real estate investment. These cities boast strong economic growth, expanding job markets, and favorable investment climates.

Austin, for instance, leads the pack with its vibrant economy, growing population, and attractive real estate market. Despite challenges like traffic congestion, Austin’s allure remains strong, supported by major developments and a thriving tech scene.

Raleigh/Durham follows closely, driven by its concentration of educational institutions and burgeoning tech sector. Nashville and Charlotte are also seeing significant growth, with developments in various industries boosting their appeal to investors.

Orlando rounds out the top five, benefiting from population growth and ongoing infrastructure improvements. Its appeal extends to both residential and commercial real estate sectors.

For those interested in 18-hour cities—lower cost, high potential areas—Milwaukee, Columbus, Charleston, and Kansas City present compelling investment opportunities. These cities offer affordability and growth potential, making them attractive alternatives to more expensive urban centers.

Investing wisely in real estate requires thorough research and due diligence. Whether you’re considering primary metros or emerging 18-hour cities, understanding local market dynamics is crucial for maximizing returns.

Overall, the current real estate landscape offers diverse opportunities across different cities and states. By focusing on growth potential, economic stability, and demographic trends, investors can position themselves to capitalize on the evolving market dynamics.