Where New Construction Thrives: Top Metros for 2025

The U.S. housing market is still facing a shortage of nearly 4 million homes, making new construction one of the most important solutions to keeping homeownership within reach. Realtor.com’s Let America Build campaign has released a new guide that focuses on buyers and their pursuit of purchasing a home, highlighting the top metros for new construction in 2025.

The study evaluated the 100 largest metros, ranking them based on four key factors:

1. New-construction share of listings (33%)
2. New-construction price premium vs. existing homes (33%)
3. Climate risk difference (17%)
4. Market “hotness” based on buyer interest (17%)

The result is a list of 10 metros where affordability, sustainability, and desirability converge—places where buyers will find strong opportunities in the new-home market.

Key Trends

1. College towns dominate. Universities and their health systems create economic stability, attracting both professionals and builders.
2. Midsized markets shine. None of the top 20 largest U.S. metros made the list; instead, growth is concentrated in midsized cities with strong job markets, lower living costs, and vibrant communities.

Spotlight on Boise

Boise earned a top spot as the only Western metro on the list—and for good reason. Over half (51%) of all homes for sale in the Boise metro are new builds, the highest share in the nation. Even more impressive: new construction here is priced below resale homes, with a median listing price of $540,743 compared to $559,517 for existing homes.

Sustainability is another strength. New homes in Boise carry significantly lower fire risk than older properties, highlighting how local builders are designing with resilience and the region’s natural landscape in mind. While the metro’s market “hotness” score is modest (homes spend an average of 66 days on market), the volume, pricing, and eco-conscious design make Boise a compelling destination for new-home buyers.

The numbers back up the momentum: in August 2025, Ada County recorded 313 new construction home sales—up 22.3% year-over-year. Most of this growth is concentrated in Boise’s western and southern suburbs, offering easy commutes into the city center while delivering modern layouts, energy-efficient systems, and competitive pricing.

Growth & Balance

With growth comes new opportunity, but also hesitation and trepidation. For locals and Idaho natives, the pace of new development can feel both exciting and concerning. While new homes bring affordability and options for future generations, many worry about preserving the landscapes, character, and culture that define life in the Treasure Valley.

We share that awareness. It’s our hope that Boise and its surrounding cities remain committed to growth that respects the land, protects access to outdoor adventure, and preserves the “Boise way of life” that makes our capital city so extraordinary.