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Purchasing a luxury home often comes with a hefty price tag, but in some U.S. metros, high-end living can still be surprisingly affordable. Location, design and luxury amenities can certainly drive up costs, but in seven major U.S. metros, buyers can still find luxury homes priced under $1 million.
According to a new report from Redfin, Detroit, Michigan; Cleveland, Ohio; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Indianapolis, Indiana; St. Louis, Missouri; Cincinnati, Ohio; and San Antonio, Texas, currently offer this level of affordability.
While that’s encouraging news for buyers looking for upscale homes at lower price points, the list has shrunk drastically. Five years ago, 30 metros offered similar opportunities. Between 2013 and 2017, that number was even higher at 35. But by 2020, it had dropped to 30, and today, only seven remain in that category.
Sheharyar Bokhari | Redfin Senior Economist
“The Rust Belt’s relative affordability has preserved opportunities for luxury buyers that have all but disappeared in much of the country,” Redfin Senior Economist Sheharyar Bokhari said in Redfin’s report. “These metros haven’t seen as much explosive investor demand or speculative buying, which has helped keep prices grounded.
“Buyers can get historic charm, large lots, and upscale finishes — often in walkable, tree-lined neighborhoods — for a small fraction of what a similar home would cost in cities like San Francisco or New York.”
1. Detroit, Michigan
Canva: Detroit, Michigan
Detroit has undergone a major transformation in recent years. With revitalized neighborhoods and an influx of development, the city’s housing market is catching up, though prices are still low compared to coastal markets.
As of 2025, the median luxury home sale price in Detroit is $753,851, a $220,294 increase from 2020. Going back a full decade, the price has surged 81.2 percent between 2015 and 2025.
2. Cleveland, Ohio
Canva: Cleveland, Ohio
With a mix of classic architecture and access to a steady economy, Cleveland appeals to buyers seeking character without big-city price tags.
Cleveland’s median luxury home sale price currently sits at $757,046. That’s up from $531,461 in 2020 and $476,170 in 2015, a 59 percent increase over the past 10 years.
3. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Canva: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Pittsburgh has reinvented itself from a steel town to a center for healthcare, tech and education. That revitalization has extended to its housing market, where buyers still find high-end homes at more approachable prices.
The median luxury home price in Pittsburgh is $846,715 in 2025. That a 53.2 percent increase from $552,799 in 2015, and it’s up from 2020’s median price of $618,837.
4. Indianapolis, Indiana
Canva: Indianapolis, Indiana
Indianapolis’ affordability and quality of life make it a standout. The city offers strong schools and family-friendly neighborhoods at prices that remain relatively accessible.
In 2025, the metro’s median luxury home price is $914,276, up from $616,613 in 2020. In 2015, that number was $553,161, reflecting a 65.3 percent jump over the decade.
5. St. Louis, Missouri
Canva: St. Louis, Missouri
St. Louis offers Midwestern charm, a growing cultural scene and historic neighborhoods that continue to attract buyers.
Luxury homes here are priced at a median of $914,453 in 2025, nearly identical to Indianapolis. That’s up from $677,578 in 2020 and $602,076 in 2015, which is a more modest but still substantial 51.9 percent growth over the 10-year span.
6. Cincinnati, Ohio
Canva: Cincinnati, Ohio
Cincinnati has become a standout for luxury buyers in search of large homes and tree-lined streets at lower price points. Its strong job market and downtown area add to its appeal.
In 2025, the city’s median luxury home price is $931,145, the second highest on the list. That’s a 70.2 percent increase from 2015’s $547,238 and up from $600,709 just five years ago.
7. San Antonio, Texas
Canva: San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio is known for its rich culture and booming population. While it’s the priciest of the seven metros on this list, it still offers luxury homes under the million-dollar mark.
The median luxury sale price in 2025 is $957,854, up from $656,438 in 2020 and $567,799 in 2015. That’s a 68.7 percent increase over the past 10 years.
For perspective, the national median luxury home price in 2025 is $1,348,065 — up from $797,903 in 2020 and $717,004 in 2015. That’s an 88 percent jump over the past decade, highlighting just how rare these seven relatively affordable metros have become in today’s high-priced market.
