Harrisburg No. 1 Market for First-Time Buyers, Says Realtor.com

Realtor.com has named Harrisburg to be the best place nationwide for first-time homebuyers in 2025. 

The capital of Pennsylvania, Harrisburg’s forecasted share of 25-34-year-old homeowners this year is 20.6%. As of last November, the city’s 12-month inventory per 1,000 households was 34.8, and the median listing price was $140,000. 

First-time buyers may be drawn to Harrisburg because of its low price-to-income ratio (2.6) or its average work commute (22 minutes). Among the top 10 markets for first-time buyers, the city had one of the highest location scores (9.2 out of 10), indicating abundant availability of shopping, daycares, restaurants, grocery stores and nightlife in the area. 

“Harrisburg’s designation as the top market for first-time homebuyers in 2025 highlights its unique blend of affordability, job opportunities and community appeal,” said 2025 Greater Harrisburg Association of Realtors® President Jimmy Koury. “With low home prices, a stable job market and convenient amenities, it’s an ideal place for first-time buyers to build their future and invest in lasting homeownership.”