In an era where housing affordability is a growing concern, single individuals face unique challenges when it comes to purchasing a home. Unlike married couples who benefit from combined incomes, singles must navigate the real estate market with a single income. However, certain regions in the United States offer more favorable conditions for solo buyers. This article explores these markets and provides insights into why they stand out.

Exploring Favorable Housing Markets for Singles

In the golden autumn of 2025, a comprehensive analysis by LendingTree revealed that specific states are particularly welcoming to single homeowners. By examining data from the US Census Bureau, researchers identified areas where single men and women have higher rates of homeownership. These locations typically boast lower population densities and economies driven by industries such as energy, manufacturing, and natural resources. Notably, single women own a significant number of homes nationwide, accounting for 13% of owner-occupied residences, compared to 9.8% for single men.

New Mexico emerged as the top state for single women homeownership, while North Dakota took the lead for single men. Real estate agent Tanner Schock from Minot, North Dakota, attributes this success to affordable housing costs and abundant job opportunities, especially in oil and gas industries. The cost of living in North Dakota is nearly 9% below the national average, making it an attractive destination for potential homebuyers.

The median home prices in these top-ranking states vary significantly. For instance, in New Mexico, the median price stands at $392,990, whereas in West Virginia, it drops to $269,999. In contrast, Alaska, despite having a median home price of $431,000, still ranks among the best markets for single men.

From a broader perspective, the increasing number of single women homeowners can be attributed to narrowing gender wage gaps and longer life expectancy. As women's earnings approach parity with men's, more are securing mortgages and becoming homeowners independently.

For aspiring single homeowners, these findings offer a ray of hope. Despite the financial challenges, certain regions provide realistic opportunities for owning a home. Whether driven by economic factors or demographic trends, these markets demonstrate that solo homeownership is not only possible but increasingly common.

As a journalist covering real estate trends, I find these statistics both enlightening and encouraging. They highlight the resilience and adaptability of single individuals in the face of rising housing costs. Moreover, they underscore the importance of location when considering homeownership. For readers contemplating their next move, exploring these markets could be the key to achieving the dream of homeownership.