Are states seeing job growth also seeing more active housing markets

Yes, states seeing job growth are also seeing more active housing markets.

There are several factors that could lead to a more active housing market, one of them being the job market and growth in an area. Think of it as people wanting to move to places with more or better career opportunities.

In turn, states with less job growth could see a slower-moving housing market.

Planning to move to an area with job growth or a more active housing market? Start your home loan application today!

Which states are seeing job growth?

The three states seeing the largest number of employment gains are California, Texas and New York as of January 2026.

A total of 45 states saw an increase in non-farm payroll employment, with California showing the greatest number, over 93,500 jobs, and Neveda seeing the greatest percentage increase, 1.9%.

Five states, as well as the District of Columbia, saw declines in employment.

Which factors are driving job growth?

There are several factors that could drive job growth in an area. Here are some factors that areas experiencing job growth will see.

• Thriving economy
• Technological changes
• Shift in consumer demands
• An aging population that could require an increased demand for health-care workers

Which states are seeing an increase in home inventory?

The states seeing the largest increase in home inventory, as of March 2026 compared to a year before, are Washington (30.8%), Wisconsin (22.2%) and Oregon/North Carolina (20.8%). Only two states saw a decrease in housing inventory during this same period: Alaska (11.1%) and Florida (8.2%).

Which factors are driving increases in home inventory?

There are two major factors that drive an increase in a region's housing inventory: new constructions and homeowners moving.

New constructions refer to building new housing structures or making major alterations to existing ones. Homeowners move for work, family or aging because they would prefer an assisted living arrangement. With new constructions or homeowners leaving properties in an area, the home inventory for sale will rise.

Mortgage rates can also affect home inventory across the country. When mortgage rates rise, home inventory across the country tends to drop as people want to take advantage of lower interest rates on their mortgage.

Is there any overlap between job growth and an increase in home inventory?

The overlap between job growth and home inventory tends to be reversed.

When an area sees an increase in job growth, people will move to the area to take advantage of the career opportunities there. With more people moving to an area, home inventory tends to see a decline.

However, if job growth comes with higher salaries, you may see more people selling their homes and moving. This specific job growth could come with an increase in home inventory.

How can I find a home in an active housing market?

If you are looking to buy a home in an active housing market, there are steps you can take to find the best home for you.

When looking to purchase property in an active housing market, it is always wise to research and understand the market you are looking in. This can mean tracking home values in the area, watching for competition and reviewing price changes. A real estate agent can be helpful in understanding the active housing market in your area.

It is also smart to know your homebuying budget so you can focus on properties you are able to afford. To learn how much of a mortgage you could qualify for, apply for a pre-approval through a trusted lender.

How can I start the mortgage process today?

Whether you are looking to move and buy a home in a new city with a booming job market or purchase property in your hometown, you can start by learning about the market in your chosen area.

Learning about the housing market where you would like to live can show you what living there may look like. It could also give you an idea of the property value growth you may see when living there. Real estate agents in the area you are looking to buy a home can help you learn about your desired area.

Wherever you are looking to buy a home, after you have decided on where you would like to live, you will be ready start a mortgage application.

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