Port St. Lucie, Florida, has earned a spot among the nation’s top real estate markets, according to WalletHub’s 2025 study. The city not only secured a place in the top 15 overall but also ranked first for affordability and economic environment, highlighting its strong appeal despite broader trends of slowing population growth and rising living costs in Florida.
Key Takeaways
- Port St. Lucie is the only Florida city to rank in the top 15 of WalletHub’s 2025 Best Real Estate Markets study.
- The city achieved the highest score for "affordability and economic environment" among all U.S. cities evaluated.
- Despite a national slowdown in migration to Florida, Port St. Lucie demonstrates robust real estate market health.
Port St. Lucie’s National Recognition
WalletHub’s comprehensive study evaluated 300 cities across the United States, analyzing 17 key metrics within two main categories: real estate market and affordability/economic environment. Port St. Lucie distinguished itself by securing the 14th position overall. This ranking is particularly noteworthy as it places the Florida city above many other contenders, including McKinney, Texas, which was named the top city for its real estate market overall.
Factors Driving Port St. Lucie’s Success
WalletHub analysts emphasized that the best real estate markets offer more than just current home prices; they provide excellent housing options and long-term stability. Port St. Lucie’s high ranking is attributed to its strong performance in affordability and economic environment. While the average cost to buy a home in Port St. Lucie is approximately $389,000, its economic indicators and housing affordability metrics contributed significantly to its top placement.
Florida’s Shifting Real Estate Landscape
While Florida experienced a significant population boom in recent years, the pace has slowed, with factors like rising living costs, insurance premiums, and severe weather impacts influencing migration patterns. Despite these challenges, Port St. Lucie’s achievement underscores the city’s resilience and attractiveness within the state’s real estate sector. Other Florida cities also featured in the study, with Tampa ranking as the best market for large cities and Davie for small cities within the state. However, Port St. Lucie’s overall national standing, especially its top score in affordability and economic environment, sets it apart.
Sources
- Top 15 best real estate markets in US list includes this Florida city, Treasure Coast News.
- This Florida city has the best real estate market in the state, study says, WKMG.