SHELBY, N.C. — A city on the western edge of the Charlotte metro area is getting some national props.
Shelby, North Carolina, has emerged as the state's most favorable location for homebuyers, according to a new study by GOBankingRates. The Cleveland County city offers an attractive combination of affordable housing and strong livability scores, making it an ideal destination for prospective homeowners, the study found.
The study, which analyzed markets across the United States, highlighted Shelby's notably low Zillow Market Heat Index of -23, indicating particularly favorable conditions for buyers. With an average home value of $193,319, the city could present a more affordable option compared to many North Carolina markets.
Shelby's appeal extends beyond housing costs, with an annual cost of living of $36,051 and a median household income of $46,176, suggesting strong purchasing power for residents. The city also earned a impressive livability score of 75 out of 100, reflecting the quality of life available to residents. The city boasts a population of 21,000 according to the 2020 Census.
The GOBankingRates study utilized Zillow's Market Heat Index, which evaluates market dynamics through various factors including engagement and listing performance. A lower index number indicates more favorable conditions for buyers, positioning Shelby at the top of North Carolina's rankings.
This recognition places Shelby among other notable southeastern cities identified in the study, including Gaffney, South Carolina, Suphur Springs, Texas, Okeechobee, Florida, and McMinnville, Tennessee, as prime locations for homebuyers seeking value in their real-estate investments.