10 Best Places To Be A Real Estate Agent

The American real estate industry is full of untapped and easily accessible potential, offering aspiring individuals a chance to dive into a career that doesn't demand an exorbitantly expensive and elaborate degree. With the right drive and determination, in fact, anyone can obtain a real estate license and start a lucrative career in the housing sector. Yet, the opportunities and prospects for real estate agents vary greatly depending on the location they choose to launch their careers.

Being a real estate agent in one of the best cities to thrive in this profession presents an array of significant benefits. These cities offer vibrant real estate markets, providing agents ample opportunities to connect with clients and make lucrative deals. The demand for housing, commercial properties, and investments is typically high in these areas, translating to a constant business flow. Moreover, the competition among agents is usually fierce, encouraging continuous professional growth and innovation.

Due to the upside of great locations, we're unveiling the best places to be a real estate agent, where the potential for success in this dynamic industry is not just a possibility but a promising reality. While real estate agents may thrive in any city, the following U.S. cities boast more upside than most:

1. Buffalo, NY
2. Phoenix, AZ
3. Oxnard, CA
4. Las Vegas, NV
5. Boise, ID
6. Bridgeport, CT
7. Harrisburg, PA
8. Springfield, MA
9. Cleveland, OH
10. Portland, ME

To be perfectly clear, real estate agents can thrive in any market. Real estate agents in Florida, Colorado, Nevada, Oklahoma, and everywhere in between have proven that real estate can generate wealth. The best states to be a real estate agent are plentiful. However, the cities listed above have demonstrated an increased propensity for potential.

1. Buffalo, NY

Thanks to its vibrant market conditions and booming home sales, Buffalo, New York, unquestionably ranks among the best places to be a real estate agent. Several key factors make it an ideal city for real estate professionals, not the least of which is the envy of many metros nationwide.

Firstly, the city boasts a median sale price of $207,500, and with a year-over-year increase of 3.8%, agents can anticipate higher commissions on sales. The rising home values in Buffalo present a lucrative opportunity for agents to maximize their earnings while helping clients secure their dream homes.

In addition, Buffalo's median days on the market is a mere 13 days, indicating that homes are selling rapidly. Homes are now selling two days faster than in the previous year, signifying increased activity in the real estate market. Demand ensures agents have a consistent flow of clients, translating into more business and commissions.

An impressive 62.5% of homes in Buffalo sell above their list price. As a result, agents can expect more substantial commissions due to the higher sale prices. This trend highlights Buffalo as a highly competitive and rewarding market for real estate agents.

When considering rising home values, swift sales, and homes consistently selling above list price, Buffalo presents a remarkable opportunity for real estate agents to flourish in an environment filled with demand and profitable transactions.

2. Phoenix, AZ

The largest city in Arizona, Phoenix is one of the top cities to be a real estate agent, and several compelling factors make it an enticing choice for aspiring real estate professionals.

Firstly, Phoenix boasts a robust median sale price of $440,000, marking a substantial 32.3% year-over-year increase. This meteoric rise in home prices signifies an outstanding opportunity for agents to earn higher commissions on their sales. With such impressive growth, real estate agents in Phoenix are in a prime position to benefit from the flourishing market.

Furthermore, Phoenix's median days on the market stands at just 35 days, which is eight days faster than the previous year. This quick turnover rate suggests an abundance of real estate activity for agents to seize. As homes sell faster, agents can efficiently work with more clients and maximize their business.

Additionally, 23.0% of homes in Phoenix sell above their list price, ensuring real estate agents can earn more in commissions due to these lucrative transactions. The city's vibrant real estate scene continues to reward agents with above-asking-price sales, making it a prime choice for real estate professionals.

One notable reason real estate agents will find Phoenix to be one of the best cities to work in is the area's consistent growth. As one of America's fastest-growing regions, Phoenix offers endless opportunities to work with clients, whether relocating, buying luxury homes, or searching for their dream properties.

3. Oxnard, CA

Oxnard, California, has become one of the best places for real estate agents, offering a combination of factors that promise a thriving career in the industry.

First and foremost, Oxnard boasts impressively high home values, with a median sale price of $766,750. Home values and consistent appreciation indicate a lucrative opportunity for real estate agents. With rising home values, agents stand to benefit from higher commissions on their sales, making it an attractive prospect for real estate professionals.

Additionally, the median days on the market in Oxnard is about 38, reflecting a substantial 20-day reduction from the previous year. This swift turnaround signifies a robust and active real estate market, allowing agents to efficiently work with more clients and close deals more rapidly.

Notably, most homes in Oxnard sell above their list price. This trend suggests that real estate agents in the area can look forward to earning more in commissions due to these profitable transactions. The strong demand for properties above their listing prices adds a valuable dimension to the local real estate market.

Furthermore, Oxnard is experiencing an influx of net migration from the East Coast, further cementing it as one of the best places to be a real estate agent. The appeal of California's coastal cities is undeniable, drawing individuals seeking better weather, lifestyle, and economic opportunities. This influx translates into an expanding client base for real estate agents. The increasing population creates a constant demand for real estate services and ensures agents can build a flourishing and sustainable business in Oxnard.

Read Also: How To Become A Real Estate Agent In California (5 Steps)

4. Las Vegas, NV

Las Vegas stands out as one of the best cities for real estate agents due to a combination of favorable market conditions and unique characteristics that make it a promising location for real estate professionals.

First and foremost, Las Vegas has a vibrant real estate market characterized by consistently increasing home values. At about $410,00, the city's median home price is on an upward trajectory, which translates into more money per transaction for real estate agents. Consequently, demand for properties in Las Vegas remains robust, further fueling future appreciation.

The city has seen significant population growth in recent years, attracting individuals from various parts of the country. According to Macrotrends, “The current metro area population of Las Vegas in 2023 is 2,899,000, a 2.11% increase from 2022.” This influx of residents creates a substantial client base for real estate agents. As more people seek homes in Las Vegas, agents have ample opportunities to cater to their needs and facilitate transactions.

If for nothing else, Las Vegas is a global tourism and entertainment hub. The presence of numerous hotels, resorts, and entertainment venues continually attracts investors and individuals interested in purchasing properties for short-term rentals or investments. Real estate agents can tap into this niche market, helping clients navigate the vacation rental and investment property sector.

5. Boise, ID

Boise, Idaho has made the list for many of the same reasons as the other cities we have mentioned. Most notable, however, is Boise’s rapid increase in population. The city has experienced consistent population growth as more individuals and families relocate to Boise in the wake of the pandemic. This influx of residents is directly correlated with buyers looking for more open space and relatively affordable home values. Boise saw demand increase as many buyers started working from home and could trade the expensive confines of primary cities for more affordable living arrangements. The demand has translated into a lot of activity for local real estate agents.

As a result of the influx, the city has experienced a substantial year-over-year appreciation in median home prices. At about $515,000, the median home value in Boise has increased about 35% since the onset of the pandemic; this translates into higher commissions for agents, making it an attractive environment to build a lucrative career.

Boise's real estate market is marked by homes spending fewer days on the market than the previous year. The median days on the market have decreased by almost two weeks over the last year, indicating high demand and a quicker sales process. This faster turnover allows real estate agents to close deals more efficiently and serve more clients.

Even more importantly, however, Boise has gained popularity due to its appealing quality of life, outdoor recreational opportunities, and relatively affordable cost of living compared to many urban centers. As more people seek the Boise lifestyle, they require assistance from trained professionals, making Boise one of the best places to be a real estate agent.

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6. Bridgeport, CT

Bridgeport, Connecticut, is among the best places to be a real estate agent due to a blend of factors that make it an attractive location for professionals in the industry. Its current status and future prospects indicate that it may remain a top choice for real estate agents for the foreseeable future.

At the very least, Bridgeport boasts a resilient housing market with a consistent demand for buying and renting properties. Its proximity to major cities like New York makes it appealing to those seeking a suburban lifestyle while still having access to urban amenities. This ongoing demand translates into numerous opportunities for real estate agents to connect buyers and homeowners, driving their success.

Bridgeport has witnessed a steady appreciation in property values over the years. In the last year alone, home values have increased by about 6.2% (according to Zillow); this benefits real estate agents, allowing for higher commissions on successful transactions. As homes become more valuable, agents can earn more in the long term.

Bridgeport has also been investing in revitalizing its downtown and waterfront areas, attracting young professionals and businesses. This growth in the urban core fosters more real estate activity, creating a constant need for agents to facilitate real estate transactions.

Above all else, however, Bridgeport's strategic location between New York and Boston makes it a transportation hub, adding to its appeal for businesses and residents. With a strong job market and a growing community, real estate agents have the opportunity to serve a diverse clientele with various needs.

7. Harrisburg, PA

Harrisburg was one of the best cities for real estate agents, with several factors contributing to its appeal to professionals in the industry. The city's current strengths and future prospects indicate it may remain a top choice for real estate agents. Let me explain.

Harrisburg offers affordable housing options and a steady demand for homes. With a median sales price of $199,000 and homes only lasting on the market for about seven days, it’s not hard to see how affordability translates to activity for real estate agents. The relatively lower home prices compared to nearby metropolitan areas, such as Philadelphia and Washington, D.C., make it an attractive choice for families and first-time homebuyers. This affordability factor drives continued demand for real estate agents' services, helping them build a thriving career.

Additionally, Harrisburg has a resilient job market, mainly fueled by its role as Pennsylvania's state capital and its proximity to major cities. This steady job market provides a consistent flow of residents and potential homebuyers, offering real estate agents a broad customer base.

Not to be forgotten, Harrisburg has witnessed a growing rental market, with many residents choosing to rent. Real estate agents can benefit from the demand for rental properties, helping landlords find tenants and managing rental transactions.

8. Springfield, MA

The best place to be a real estate agent nobody is talking about might be Springfield, Massachusetts. Springfield currently boasts a lot of favorable trends that may benefit real estate investors now and well into the future.

In particular, Springfield boasts an affordable housing market, a key driver of its attractiveness to homebuyers. Today’s median home value is somewhere in the neighborhood of $275,000, which represents an increase of 9.1% over the last 12 months. Compared to major metropolitan areas like Boston, the city's relatively lower home prices make it an appealing option for those purchasing their first homes. This affordability factor creates a consistent demand, as homes only last on the market for an average of 22 days.

In addition to affordability, prestigious educational institutions, such as Springfield College and Western New England University, contribute to a consistent influx of students and faculty members, all of whom need housing. This ongoing stream of potential renters and buyers in the local housing market presents real estate agents with a wide range of opportunities to assist first-time homebuyers and investors.

Springfield's combination of an affordable housing market, diverse job opportunities, and a strong educational sector positions it as one of the best cities for real estate agents. The city's strengths and potential for future growth suggest it will continue to be an attractive destination for real estate professionals in the coming years.

9. Cleveland, OH

Cleveland, Ohio offers a unique and promising landscape for real estate agents, making it one of the best cities to practice this profession. Several key factors contribute to its appeal, which more people must be aware of.

One of Cleveland's standout features is its affordable housing market. The city has a relatively low cost of living, and the median home value is about $114,000 (well below the national average). This affordability makes it an attractive destination for first-time homebuyers and real estate investors alike. Real estate agents can work with diverse clients to increase their earnings and commissions.

It is important to note that demand doesn’t only stem from affordability. Various industries, including healthcare, manufacturing, and professional services anchor Cleveland's economy. The city has shown remarkable economic resilience and adaptability over the years. The robust job market and employment opportunities are significant drivers of the real estate industry. A strong local economy ensures a continuous influx of potential homebuyers and renters.

Cleveland's affordability, diverse real estate market, resilient economy, and ongoing development efforts make it a prime location for real estate agents. The city's unique combination of features creates a promising environment for real estate professionals to thrive and meet the various needs of their clients.

10. Portland, ME

Aspiring real estate agents looking for an attractive market to bolster their careers should consider Portland, Maine. Portland has a thriving real estate market characterized by consistent home value growth (up 16.9% over the last 12 months) and housing demand. The city's diverse housing options, including historic homes, modern condos, and coastal properties, appeal to a wide range of potential buyers and renters. This diversity offers real estate agents numerous opportunities to serve various clients nationwide.

Portland's economy is also thriving, supported by various industries, including healthcare, tourism, and technology. The city's strong job market, low unemployment rates, and economic stability translate into a steady influx of potential homebuyers and renters. A thriving local economy is often a positive indicator for the real estate industry, and agents are no exception.

Portland provides an enticing environment for aspiring real estate agents. The city's strong real estate market, coastal appeal, thriving economy, cultural attractions, and market opportunities make it an ideal place to build a successful real estate career.

Read Also: Is Being A Real Estate Agent Worth It? 10 Pros & Cons To Consider

Best Places To Be A Real Estate Agent FAQs

The real estate industry ​​can raise numerous questions for aspiring agents seeking life-changing career decisions. As a result, we'll address some of the most frequently asked questions about choosing the best cities to be a real estate agent. These questions will help clarify the nuances and considerations that come into play when determining the optimal location for a successful real estate career.

What’s The Right Location For Me To Become A Real Estate Agent?

Choosing the right city to begin your real estate career is pivotal. While each city has unique pros and cons, the best fit is the one aligned with your specific needs and aspirations. Consider your personal and professional requirements to ensure you make the right choice.

Evaluate factors like market dynamics, income potential, cost of living, and lifestyle preferences. It's not a one-size-fits-all scenario, so prioritize your needs and align them with a city that can offer the opportunities and lifestyle you desire. The city you choose can significantly impact your success and overall satisfaction in your career, so don’t take this decision lightly.

Where Do Realtors Make The Most Money?

Real estate agents primarily earn their income through commissions, which are a percentage of the sale price when a property changes hands; this means that cities with higher home values often offer more significant earning potential for realtors. However, it's essential to consider multiple factors beyond property values when evaluating a real estate agent's salary. Transaction volume and time spent on each sale concerning the commission are equally crucial. Therefore, determining where agents make the most money is more than just a matter of looking at home values.

For a more definitive answer, however, Indeed suggests that Los Angeles, California, could be the city where real estate agents have the potential to earn the most substantial income. The city's vibrant housing market, with a balance of high home values, a steady stream of real estate transactions, and competitive commission rates, creates an environment conducive to lucrative opportunities for realtors. It's essential to remember that while the location plays a significant role, individual skills, networking, and marketing strategies also contribute to a real estate agent's overall success and income.

Read Also: Realtor Vs. Real Estate Agent: Salaries, Differences & Similarities

Can Real Estate Agents Work In Any State?

Real estate agents must meet specific requirements to work in any state. Each state in the United States has its own licensing and regulatory standards for real estate agents. To work legally in a state, real estate agents must:

• Obtain A License: The best place to get a real estate license will depend on where aspiring agents want to practice. Agents need to secure a real estate license in the state where they intend to practice; this typically involves completing required pre-licensing coursework, passing a state exam, and fulfilling other state-specific licensing criteria.
• Join A Local Association: Some states may require real estate agents to become members of the local or state chapter of the National Association of Realtors (NAR). NAR sets professional standards and a code of ethics for its members.
• Adhere To State Laws: Agents must stay up-to-date with their state's real estate laws and regulations to ensure compliance with legal and ethical standards.
• Maintain Licensure: Keeping their license active requires agents to fulfill continuing education requirements, renew the license, and pay associated fees.
• Operate Under A Broker: In most states, real estate agents must work under a licensed real estate broker, who supervises and mentors them. They typically cannot operate as independent real estate businesses.

Final Thoughts On The Best Places To Be A Real Estate Agent

While real estate agents can thrive anywhere in their profession, the location they practice can significantly influence their success. While Austin, Seattle, Denver, Raleigh, San Francisco, Dallas, Nashville, San Jose, Atlanta, Charlotte, Chicago, Fort Worth, Honolulu, Houston, Miami, Orlando, and Tampa are all spread across the country, there’s no reason real estate agents can’t realize success in any of these cities. Nonetheless, the real estate market is highly localized, with each city and state presenting unique opportunities and challenges. Agents who carefully consider their options, research local market conditions and understand the specific demands of an area can position themselves for better outcomes.

Ready to take your real estate career to the next level? Contact Real Estate Skills today and unlock the full potential of your real estate ventures. Our experts are here to provide guidance, resources, and strategies to help you thrive in the real estate investing industry. Don't miss out on this opportunity to enhance your skills and boost your success. Get in touch with us now and elevate your career in real estate.