Midwest Cities Thrive in the Housing Market
Early in January, Zillow released the top 10 hottest housing markets for 2024. Many factors were considered, including the average cost of a house, city job growth, expected home value appreciation, and the speed at which homes are selling. Midwestern cities, namely Cincinnati, Indianapolis, and Cleveland, took top spots on Zillow’s ranking, surpassing Atlanta, Orlando, […]
Early in January, Zillow released the top 10 hottest housing markets for 2024. Many factors were considered, including the average cost of a house, city job growth, expected home value appreciation, and the speed at which homes are selling. Midwestern cities, namely Cincinnati, Indianapolis, and Cleveland, took top spots on Zillow’s ranking, surpassing Atlanta, Orlando, and several other notable markets.
Why Is the Midwest On the Rise?
Some may be shocked to see that Midwest cities in Ohio and Indianapolis have some of the hottest housing markets. According to Zillow, affordability was a key factor in growing housing markets, as cities like Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati “give young hopefuls a real shot at buying and starting to build equity.” Several of these midwest cities have also been experiencing rapid job growth, according to Zillow.
Top Housing Markets To Watch in the Midwest
Cincinnati’s Booming Real Estate Market
Ranked number two on Zillow’s list of growing housing markets, Cincinnati has everything a potential resident could want. It has culture, community, and a robust housing market. The city’s rental market is also growing, according to RentCafe, which found Cincinnati to be the 13th most competitive market in the country. Many people move to Cincinnati for its affordable houses, readily available jobs, great schools, and unique cuisine.
If you’re considering a move to Cincinnati, you’re in luck. HILLS Properties operates several apartments in Cincinnati. Consider Vantage at Anderson Towne Center, our newest luxury apartment community near East End, Cincinnati. There, you’ll find stylish apartment homes and next-level amenities like a speakeasy, private fitness pods, and an infinity pool.
We’re also excited to bring our luxury mid-rise style community, Graphite Oakley, to the Oakley neighborhood. Preleasing is underway, and we eagerly anticipate welcoming our first residents home later this year. We also offer several more Ohio apartments so you can find your perfect fit.
Indianapolis: Growing Midwest City
Known for its world-renowned museums and sports culture, Indianapolis boasts an up-and-coming housing market, fetching the number four slot on Zillow’s list. According to Zillow, the average home in Indianapolis sold for over $70,000 less than the average home in the U.S. Indianapolis’s average monthly rent was also around $500 cheaper than the U.S. average.
Find your new home in Indianapolis with HILLS. We offer two apartment communities near Indianapolis, including Wellington Place Apartments in Fishers, IN, and Emerald Lakes Apartments in Greenwood, IN. Both of our Indiana luxury apartment communities offer a pool, fitness center, on-site dog park, and several more upscale amenities.
Find Your Next Cincinnati or Indianapolis Apartment With HILLS
HILLS Properties offers high-quality apartments distinguished by top-notch amenities and excellent residence staff. Browse our apartments in Ohio and our Indianapolis apartments today and find your next home in one of the Midwest’s most rapidly growing cities. If you have any questions about our apartment communities, feel free to contact us online or give us a call. You can find a phone number for each of our apartment communities near the top of their respective pages.
![Is It Hard To Get Approved For An Apartment? Alt text: A property manager handing keys to a new apartment resident. Searching for a new apartment is exciting, but the application process can also bring up a lot of questions. Here’s what you need to know about how to get approved for an apartment, plus tips for improving your chances and what to expect along the way. [H2] What Do Apartments Look for During the Approval Process? Each apartment community has its leasing criteria, but there are a few standard factors most landlords and property managers consider when reviewing your application: ● Income. Most communities require that your monthly income is two and a half to three times the rent. ● Credit check . A good credit score shows you’ve handled past obligations responsibly. But if your credit isn’t perfect, don’t panic—many communities are flexible and offer options for renters with lower scores. ● Rental history. A clean rental history with no evictions, lease breaks, or serious complaints can work strongly in your favor. ● Background check. Landlords may conduct background checks to ensure the safety of the community. ● Employment verification. Proof of stable employment or consistent income is key to approval. If you’re wondering how hard it is to get an apartment, it comes down to how well you meet these criteria—and how proactive you are in preparing your application. [H2] How To Get Approved For An Apartment: Five Helpful Tips If you want to boost your chances of a successful application, here are a few practical steps to take. [H3] 1. Check Your Credit in Advance Before applying, review your credit report to spot any errors or issues. If you’re concerned about a low score, consider offering a co-signer or a larger security deposit. [H3] 2. Gather Key Documents Ahead of Time Most properties will ask for the following: ● Recent pay stubs or proof of income ● Bank statements ● Photo ID ● Employer contact info Being prepared with this paperwork can speed up the apartment approval process. [H3] 3. Be Honest on Your Application Lying about income, rental history, or credit score can result in an automatic denial. Being up front gives property managers the chance to work with you on alternative solutions. [H3] 4. Budget Wisely Know what you can comfortably afford. If rent is more than 30% of your income, consider looking for something more budget-friendly or getting a roommate. [H3] 5. Ask for Help Getting Approved for an Apartment Many communities, especially those like HILLS Properties, have experienced leasing professionals who are happy to guide you. Whether it’s understanding the requirements or discussing special circumstances, don’t hesitate to reach out. [H2] What If I Don’t Qualify for an Apartment on My Own? If you don’t currently meet the income or credit criteria to qualify for an apartment , there are still ways forward: ● Use a co-signer or guarantor. A trusted friend or family member with stronger financials can back your lease in the case that your income does not meet the criteria. ● Offer a larger deposit. Be prepared to pay a higher deposit if you are applying with a low credit score. ● Consider a roommate. Splitting rent and bills between two people can help you qualify more easily. ● Look for flexible communities. Not all properties have strict requirements—some are more lenient and may accept alternative documentation or references. [H2] Ready to Find Your Next Home? Getting approved for an apartment might feel intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be difficult. With the right information, a little preparation, and the support of a responsive leasing team, you’ll be moving into your new home in no time. At HILLS Properties, we understand that everyone’s situation is unique. Our team is here to help you through every step of the application process—whether it’s your first apartment or your fifth. Explore our available apartments today and let us help you find the perfect place to call home.](https://cdn.hillsproperties.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/image-3.jpeg)
