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Updated: September 19, 2024
Texas is emerging as a hotspot for Generation Z home buyers.
225,420 Gen Z members became home buyers in 2022, representing 4.85% of all home buyers nationwide. This Homebuyer.com housing market study highlights the areas where Gen Z buyers are concentrating and purchasing homes.
The study, “The Favorite ZIP Codes for Gen Z Home Buyers,” uses data from the FFEIC and the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA) to identify and rank U.S. ZIP codes where Gen Z buyers purchased homes in 2022.
For this study, we define “Generation Z” as individuals born after 1999.
Our analysis focuses on identifying the top 10 ZIP codes that attract the most Gen Z home buyers. Additionally, we provide an overview of the ZIP codes ranked 11 through 50 to offer a broader perspective on Gen Z preferences. The study also includes insights into mortgage financing, with local down payment averages and purchase prices.
Scroll to the bottom for our complete methodology, where we outline our research process.
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Compare mortgage rates in Atascosa
Atascosa, Texas, in Atascosa County, Texas, located just southwest of San Antonio, boasts a harmonious blend of suburban comforts and rural charm. Economically, properties here tend to be more affordable than those in urban hubs, making it an attractive choice for Gen Z home buyers who seek value for their investment. Aspiring homeowners are not just buying property; they're buying into a rich Texan heritage underscored by local events, rodeos, and festivals. The proximity to San Antonio, with its famed River Walk and The Alamo, offers residents cultural and recreational amenities, while still maintaining a peaceful distance from the bustling city center. The area's mix of open spaces, community-oriented neighborhoods, and accessibility to urban amenities makes it an appealing destination for young buyers entering the housing market.
Compare mortgage rates in Jarrell
Jarrell, situated in Williamson County, Texas, is a burgeoning community north of Austin. As part of the Greater Austin metropolitan area, Jarrell offers a blend of small-town charm with the advantages of proximity to a major city. Economically speaking, the properties in Jarrell present a compelling blend of affordability and potential for appreciation, a combination particularly appealing to the discerning Gen Z home buyer. While retaining a close-knit community feel, the town itself provides ample modern amenities. Its strategic location means residents are just a short drive away from Austin's dynamic culture, tech hubs, and entertainment options. Yet, Jarrell remains a sanctuary away from the city's hustle and bustle. For young home buyers keen on establishing roots in a community with growth potential while staying connected to urban perks, Jarrell, Texas stands out as an ideal choice.
Compare mortgage rates in Odessa
Odessa, located in Ector County, Texas, is a vibrant city with a rich tapestry of culture, history, and economic opportunities. Known for its significant role in the oil industry, Odessa has experienced periods of rapid growth, leading to a diverse range of housing options that cater to different budgetary needs. For Gen Z home buyers, this variety combined with the city's robust job market makes it an appealing place to settle. The city boasts numerous parks, recreational facilities, and a thriving arts scene anchored by the Ellen Noël Art Museum and the Globe of the Great Southwest theater. Its central location between Fort Worth and El Paso provides residents with a unique blend of urban amenities while maintaining a distinct West Texas charm. For those seeking a dynamic environment with a mix of modern conveniences and rich traditions, Odessa, Texas offers a promising locale for establishing a home.
Compare mortgage rates in San Antonio
San Antonio, enveloped by Bexar County, Texas, is a city steeped in history and modern vibrancy. The 78245 ZIP code area, located on the city's western side, has become a magnet for Gen Z home buyers. Economically, San Antonio offers diverse employment opportunities, ranging from the tech sector to tourism, given its iconic attractions like the Alamo and the bustling River Walk. In the 78245 sector, properties are notably affordable compared to many urban areas, providing immense value for young purchasers. Beyond economics, the area offers a plethora of amenities: shopping centers, parks, and dining establishments that capture the essence of Texan culture and cuisine. With a blend of new developments and established neighborhoods, it provides both modernity and a sense of community. For Gen Z home buyers aiming to balance urban life with a touch of traditional charm, the 78245 area of San Antonio, Texas is a compelling choice.
Compare mortgage rates in Hockley
Hockley, nestled in Harris County, Texas, is a serene suburb located northwest of Houston. Over the past years, Hockley has seen steady growth, becoming a prime destination for those who wish to enjoy the peace of suburban living while having easy access to a bustling metropolis. The area is characterized by its affordability, making it a particularly enticing location for Gen Z home buyers who are looking for value in their first home purchase. The town, with its spacious properties and verdant landscapes, presents an escape from the urban hustle, yet it's strategically positioned close to major highways for quick commutes to Houston's business districts and entertainment hubs. In addition, Hockley offers residents a wealth of recreational opportunities, from the expansive Zube Park to local golf courses. For those seeking a blend of tranquility and convenience, Hockley, Texas stands out as a prime choice in the housing market.
Compare mortgage rates in Clarksville
Clarksville, situated in Montgomery County, Tennessee, is a city that seamlessly combines its historic roots with modern progress. Located north of Nashville, Clarksville offers a vibrant community life that has been attracting an increasing number of Gen Z home buyers. Economically, the city benefits from a diversified job market, with Fort Campbell, a major U.S. Army installation, being one of its significant employers. Housing in the 37042 area provides both variety and affordability, a crucial combination for young buyers stepping into homeownership. Clarksville's downtown area is a fusion of history and modernity, with heritage buildings, museums, cafes, and shops. The Cumberland River adds to the city's scenic beauty, providing recreational activities for residents. With a mix of cultural events, educational institutions, and proximity to the music capital, Nashville, Clarksville, Tennessee emerges as an enticing destination for young home buyers.
Compare mortgage rates in Nevada
Nevada, located in Collin County, Texas, is a quaint town that embodies the essence of rural charm while being in close proximity to the dynamic Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Over the years, Nevada has become increasingly popular among Gen Z home buyers, primarily due to its affordability and the promise of spacious living. Economically, Nevada offers the dual benefit of cost-effective property rates and the potential for real estate appreciation, given its proximity to the growing DFW area. The town is characterized by its serene landscapes, local farms, and community-oriented events that bring residents together. However, the allure doesn't stop at its tranquility; Nevada's location ensures that major urban amenities, shopping centers, and job markets of larger cities are just a short drive away. For young buyers looking for a harmonious blend of country living and urban accessibility, Nevada, Texas, in the 75173 ZIP code, is an excellent choice.
Compare mortgage rates in Lubbock
Lubbock, encompassed by Lubbock County, Texas, is an energetic city known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant academic scene. The 79416 ZIP code area, situated in the northwestern part of the city, stands out for its unique blend of suburban tranquility and urban amenities. Texas Tech University, one of the region's educational and cultural keystones, lies nearby, infusing the area with youthful energy and driving economic opportunities. For Gen Z buyers, properties in this ZIP code offer an attractive mix of affordability and growth potential. The region boasts a range of housing options from modern townhouses to more traditional single-family homes. Beyond housing, residents enjoy a diverse array of shopping, dining, and recreational opportunities, accentuated by local parks and cultural events. Given its blend of academic vitality, economic promise, and a welcoming community, the 79416 area of Lubbock, Texas, is a promising locale for young home buyers.
Compare mortgage rates in Jacksonville
Jacksonville, situated in Onslow County, North Carolina, is a city deeply intertwined with military heritage, primarily due to its close association with the Camp Lejeune Marine Corps Base. The 28546 ZIP code area captures a microcosm of this vibrant, resilient city. Economically, Jacksonville offers stable employment opportunities, largely driven by the military presence, which extends to ancillary sectors such as retail, healthcare, and education. For Gen Z buyers, the allure of Jacksonville extends beyond job prospects. Housing in this area is competitively priced, making homeownership an achievable dream for many young individuals. Residents also benefit from a variety of recreational facilities, including parks, water activities owing to its proximity to the New River, and a plethora of dining and shopping options. With a close-knit community that values service and a balance of urban and natural amenities, Jacksonville, North Carolina, is an attractive proposition for emerging home buyers.
Compare mortgage rates in Summerville
Summerville, nestled in Dorchester County, South Carolina, is often affectionately referred to as the "Flower Town in the Pines." This charming town, with its historic heart and tree-lined streets, offers a picturesque setting that has captured the attention of Gen Z home buyers. Economically, Summerville presents a blend of growth and stability. The town's proximity to Charleston ensures that residents have access to a broader job market while still enjoying a lower cost of living. Properties in the 29483 ZIP code offer a mix of traditional southern homes and contemporary housing developments, all set against a backdrop of natural beauty. Summerville's annual Azalea Festival, showcasing thousands of blooming flowers, underscores the town's commitment to its heritage and community. With a burgeoning local arts scene, numerous parks, and a rich history, Summerville, South Carolina, stands as a captivating locale for young individuals looking to plant roots.
We gathered data from the FFEIC website, specifically the Snapshot National Loan Level Dataset for 2022. These Snapshot files contain national HMDA datasets filed by U.S. mortgage lenders as of April 30, 2023. The data is modified to protect applicant and borrower privacy. The study focuses on home buyers of 1-4 unit residential properties in the 50 states and the District of Columbia. It does not include home buyers of second homes or investment properties. Home buyers with one-time construction loans and other open-ended mortgages in first-lien positions, such as a home equity line of credit (HELOC), are also excluded.
We examined data for home buyers between 18 and 24 in 2022. For each U.S. census tract, we calculated metrics, including the number of buyers, the average loan amount, and the average property value. Then, we mapped the census tracts to their corresponding ZIP codes.
Our analysis used complex database queries that combined data from the Loan Application Register and U.S. Census Bureau. These queries efficiently sifted through large datasets exceeding 30 GB to extract the necessary information.
We removed outlier data, primarily from mortgage applications that were either withdrawn by applicants or denied due to incompleteness, if they fell outside typical and expected ranges. Less than one-half of one percent of HMDA data was excluded due to outlier removal.
To ensure accuracy, we relied on the reliability of the HMDA data and the precision of our database queries. The data extraction, filtering, and analysis process ensured the robustness of our results.
Homebuyer conducted this research to help home buyers make informed housing decisions. If you found our research helpful, please share this article with proper attribution.
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