These are the best U.S. cities for homebuyers right now

A new ranking of America's 100 largest metros on housing affordability and homebuilding highlights 10 top metros, mostly in the Midwest and South. Des Moines and Raleigh earned the highest grades. Key factors include local housing policies on zoning and permitting, with more homebuilding crucial for lasting affordability. Median home prices in these areas are generally under $450,000, except Austin at about $501,000.