Buffalo, New York is expected to be the hottest major housing market in the U.S., for the second year in a row, according to Zillow.

While the national housing supply recently reached a four-year high, buying a home in some U.S. cities may be especially difficult in 2025, a new Zillow report suggests. To make its predictions, Zillow reviewed multiple factors — including how quickly homes have been selling,

Charlotte held the highest rank among Southern markets on Zillow's list. Richmond, Virginia, also appeared among the top 10, ranking at No. 9. Raleigh, the only other North or South Carolina metro in the analysis, ranked at No. 21 — down four spots from last year.

Hartford, Conn., was also forecasted to be among the top markets by the real estate listing website, but Boston ranked 16th among the 50 metro areas compared.

Expectations remain high for Charlotte’s housing market in 2025.

Zillow says relative affordability and job growth will be the key drivers among the most competitive markets for buyers in 2025.

Affordability remains a barrier after the pandemic-era boom as home prices continue to rise and mortgage rates stay high.

Researches said the key drivers that impacted the list were affordability and job growth. Buffalo, New York topped the list at No. 1. Experts said it will be the hottest market for the second year in a row because of factors such as having the most new jobs per home and lower-than-average home prices and rent costs.

Zillow predicts Salt Lake will be one of the country's hottest housing markets in 2025. But another analysis finds the state is one of the least-affordable for homebuyers.

With steep competition to find a home in the new year, these cities offer affordable options for buyers in the housing market.