IRVINE, CA—Auction.com today released its Top Single-Family Housing Markets Report for Fall 2015, which ranks the nation's 50 largest housing markets according to current and forecasted housing fundamentals.
Among the 50 largest U.S. markets, the top five were Seattle, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, Palm Beach County, Fla., and Portland. These markets had the best combination of rising home prices, favorable affordability and strong housing demand, combined with strong economic and demographic conditions that point to future demand.

Of the five markets highlighted in Auction.com's Spring 2015 single family market rankings issued on April 15, only Fort Lauderdale remains in the top five – moving up from fourth to second place – while the others have inched their way down the list. Denver fell from first to ninth place, San Antonio from second to 17th, Nashville from third to seventh and Dallas from fifth to 19th.
“While other factors certainly weigh on housing trends, it's clear that low oil prices are having a negative impact on energy-dependent markets across the country,” said Auction.com executive vice president Rick Sharga. “States like Texas – where the economy relies heavily on the extraction, production and transportation of oil – are seeing higher unemployment and a slower rate of home sales and home price appreciation. On the other hand, markets like Orlando are probably experiencing an economic boost from the increased level of travel brought on by lower oil prices.”
In the Northwest, both Seattle and Portland are experiencing robust housing fundamentals and strong demand, which are supported by strong local economies that have received significant boosts from the tech sector. The rankings are particularly encouraging for Florida, which was devastated by the housing bust and subsequent recession. The state had three markets in the top five that boast tremendous growth opportunities as housing fundamentals remain well below pre-recession levels.

Top Five Markets at a Glance