Toledo, Ohio, leads US cities in home value growth

Toledo, Ohio, recorded the largest annual increase in typical home values among 100 major US cities, rising 5.6% according to a SmartAsset study. This growth occurred even as 70% of the cities analyzed experienced declining home values between February 2025 and February 2026.

Lincoln, Nebraska, followed with a 4.1% increase. Toledo’s growth is attributed to its relative affordability, with a typical home value of $126,270 in February, and tight inventory. Lincoln’s market remains competitive, with typical home values averaging $285,359 in February.

In contrast, several major metropolitan areas saw declines. Oakland recorded the steepest drop at 9.1%, while St. Petersburg, Naples, and Austin also saw significant decreases in home values.