The “Me me me” generation may have a bad rap for staring at their smart phones and holding off on big life events, but it is Millennials who are busting down the doors of open houses and claiming a new title: Homeowner.
Millennials are “all about freedom,” so research from realtor.com showing that the 25-34 year olds are more interested in home ownership than other age groups should come with little shock.
Though the big coastal cities appear most often on “best places for young people to live” type lists, it’s the smaller towns and suburbs in the Midwest and the South that are making millennials cough up cash for a down payment.
Here is Realtor.com’s list of the top housing markets for Millennials looking to buy a home–that is, if they don’t leave the country first.
10. Shreveport, Louisiana
Why Millennials want to buy here: Lots of scenes from the popular HBO show “True Blood” were filmed in Shreveport… perfect for a self-stick photo op for your Insta.
9. New Orleans, Louisiana
Why Millennials want to buy here: Mardi Gras.
8. Clarksville, Tennessee
Why Millennials want to buy here: Outdoor activities, wine tastings, Civil War history. For the active and intellectual Millennials and their young family.
7. Madison, Wisconsin
Why Millennials want to buy here: With the University of Wisconsin-Madison nearby, students and businesses are abouding. And Cheeseheads.
6. Grand Rapids, Michigan
Why Millennials want to buy here: This Grand Rapids citywide lip-dub video was the first ever city wide lip-dub video. Did someone say internet??
5. Lafayette, Louisiana
Why Millennials want to buy here: Fourth largest city in the state, and swamps. And more “True Blood” trivia.
4. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Why Millennials want to buy here: Three Rivers, sports teams, and food.
3. Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Why Millennials want to buy here: The fourth Louisiana city on the list, Millennials want to buy a home here…because chances are they’ll have other Millennials friends in the state.
2. Provo, Utah
Why Millennials want to buy here: Provo has a booming economy… bonus perks if your looking for a city that is 88% Mormon.
1. Des Moines, Iowa
Why Millennials want to buy here: The capitol and most populous city of Iowa, Des Moines is home to the Iowa State Fair–the playground for the Millennials who just wants to be a kid.