The States Where Housing Prices Have Surged the Most (2021–2026)

Key Takeaways

• Maine had the highest housing price growth in the country, with prices rising more than 58% between the first quarter of 2021 and the first quarter of 2026. By comparison, the average income increased by just 16% from 2021 to the end of 2025, highlighting the growing gap between housing costs and earnings.
• Vermont had the second-highest housing price growth of just under 58%. Similar to Maine, the state saw an influx of remote workers seeking more space and a higher quality of life. 
• While four of the five states with the biggest price jumps are in the Northeast, South Carolina bucks this trend. The state had the fastest per-capita population growth in the country in 2025, with strong job growth continuing to attract new residents and boost housing demand.