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Best Places To Flip Houses

Best Places to Flip Houses in 2025 (Top Markets Ranked)

fix & flip flipping houses real estate investing strategies real estate markets (states) Jul 31, 2025

Finding the best places to flip houses isn’t just about chasing low prices; it’s about flipping where the numbers work. Even experienced investors lose money in overpriced or stagnant markets, while first-timers can crush it in the right location.

Where you flip affects everything: demand, resale speed, renovation costs, and your final profit. You don’t need a high-end zip code to succeed; you just need a market with the right mix of price, growth, and buyer demand.

In this guide, we’ll break down the best markets to flip houses in 2025 and show you how to get started, even if you don’t live in one of them. And if you are new to real estate, download our FREE Ultimate Guide To Start Real Estate Investing to learn everything you need to know for your first flip.

Now, with that out of the way, let’s dive into why you’re here:


If you’re serious about doing your first real estate deal, don’t waste time guessing what works. Our FREE Training walks you through how to consistently find deals, flip houses, and build passive income—without expensive marketing or trial and error.

This FREE Training gives you the same system our students use to start fast and scale smart. Watch it today—so you can stop wondering and start closing.



How We Chose the Best Places to Flip Houses

Some cities just give house flippers a better shot at making real profits. To build our list of the best places to flip houses in 2025, we dug into data from sources like Zillow, Redfin, U.S. Census figures, and local housing reports. We weren’t looking for hype—we looked for real-world numbers that point to strong margins and consistent demand.

What made these cities stand out? They checked the boxes in several key areas: affordability, resale value, speed to sell, and overall investor-friendliness.

  • Median Purchase Price: Affordable entry point for investors
  • Average ARV (After Repair Value): Strong resale prices and profit spreads
  • Days on Market: Quick resale potential and low holding costs
  • Construction/Permit Friendliness: Less red tape = faster rehabs
  • Population & Job Growth: Long-term demand drivers
  • Investor Activity: Strong flipping trends and proven real estate comps

*Before we begin our guide on the best places to flip houses, we also invite you to view our video on How To FLIP A HOUSE For Beginners (Step-by-Step) 

 

Together, Alex & Stan have completed over 1,000+ house flips. What you learn in this video will give you the confidence and guidance to successfully complete your fix-and-flip project!


Top 10 Best Places to Flip Houses in 2025

Flipping houses is all about buying low, renovating smart, and selling high, but location is what truly determines your ceiling for profits. Whether you're a first-time flipper or an experienced rehabber looking to scale, choosing the right market can be the difference between a solid return and a money pit.

We’ve done the homework for you. Using national housing data from Zillow, Redfin, the U.S. Census Bureau, and local investor activity reports, we’ve identified the 10 best places to flip houses in 2025. These markets offer the sweet spot: low acquisition costs, strong buyer demand, rising ARVs, and investor-friendly permitting and construction timelines.

From up-and-coming Midwest metros to booming Sun Belt cities, each location on this list presents unique advantages for real estate investors. If you’re serious about maximizing ROI and minimizing risk, these are the house flipping cities to keep on your radar this year:


*For in-depth training on real estate investing, Real Estate Skills offers extensive courses to get you ready to make your first investment! Attend our FREE Webinar Training and gain insider knowledge, expert strategies, and essential skills to make the most of every real estate opportunity that comes your way!

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Tampa, Florida

Flipping houses in Tampa offers a powerful mix of affordability and upside. The median home value in Tampa is around $376,278, while typical resale prices land investors some great profit margins. Homes spend just 35 days on the market, and if a flip doesn’t go as planned, Tampa’s robust rental demand offers a strong safety net. According to RentCafe, the average rent is over $2,038 per month.

  • Strong resale demand: Homes in Tampa average just 35 days on the market.
  • Profitable margins: Average flip profits can exceed $60,000.
  • Backup rental value: High rental rates create fallback options for flippers.

Tampa stands out because it blends strong job growth with investor-friendly conditions. The city draws steady demand from remote workers, healthcare professionals, military personnel from MacDill Air Force Base, and a growing tech scene. Add in quick permitting, a business-friendly climate, and no state income tax, and it’s no surprise investors continue to target Tampa as a top market for flips and long-term holds.

Why Flip in Tampa:
  • Fast-moving market with short DOM averages
  • Affordable price-to-ARV spreads for strong ROI
  • High rental demand supports multiple exit strategies
  • No state income tax and favorable investment climate

 

Columbus, Ohio

Real estate investing in Columbus, Ohio is gaining national attention thanks to its combination of low entry prices and strong resale demand. According to Zillow, the median home value is just $256,012, which means investors can flip homes for solid profits with far less capital upfront. Average resale margins range from $30,000 and up, depending on rehab level. Columbus homes spend around 39 days on the market—still fast enough to support repeat flips.

  • Affordable homes: Median home value is just $256,012 in 2025.
  • Fast-moving inventory: Most homes sell in 39 days or less.
  • Healthy rental market: Average rent is $1,342, supporting rental fallback strategies.

What makes Columbus particularly appealing is its growth trajectory. It’s one of the fastest-growing cities in the Midwest, fueled by tech expansions (including Intel’s multi-billion-dollar chip plant), Ohio State University, and a growing medical sector. Columbus is also relatively easy to navigate for permitting and investor-friendly flips, making it a prime pick for both new and experienced rehabbers looking to maximize returns without overpaying for inventory.

Why Flip in Columbus:
  • Low-cost homes mean higher ROI per dollar invested
  • Investor-friendly city with quick permitting processes
  • Massive economic growth and stable buyer demand
  • Multiple exit strategies from rentals to retail flips

 

Phoenix, Arizona

Flipping houses in Phoenix, Arizona has long been a go-to strategy for both beginners and seasoned real estate investors. With a median home value of around $416,780 in 2025, the city offers moderate acquisition costs paired with high resale potential. Many investors earn at least $50,000+ per flip, especially in emerging submarkets like Glendale, Mesa, and South Phoenix. Homes here typically sell in under 28 days, helping investors lock in profits quickly while limiting holding costs.

  • Median home price: $416,780 in 2025 per Zillow
  • Average flip profit: At least about $70,000, depending on rehab and location
  • Rental fallback option: Average rent is $1,510/month across metro Phoenix

Phoenix stands out thanks to its year-round buying season and strong investor presence. It’s one of the top cities in the country for cash buyer activity, and the permitting process is generally quicker than in many large metros. The local economy is powered by a growing tech corridor, a strong healthcare industry, and major employers like Luke Air Force Base. With solid demand for both flips and rentals, Phoenix offers a well-rounded opportunity for house flippers heading into 2025.

Why Flip in Phoenix:
  • High margins on mid-tier properties
  • Rising population and inbound migration fuel resale demand
  • Investor-friendly permitting and local contractors
  • Year-round flip season—no snow, no slowdowns

 

Jacksonville, Florida

Real estate investing in Jacksonville offers a strong mix of affordability, coastal appeal, and year-round demand. With a median home value of just over $290,108, Jacksonville is one of the few major cities in Florida where flippers can still enter the market at a reasonable price point. Many investors earn at least $50,000–$65,000 in resale profits, especially in hot zip codes like Riverside, San Marco, and Arlington. Homes here typically sell in under 45 days, giving flippers confidence their renovated property won’t sit long.

  • Median home price: $290,108
  • Average flip profit: At least $50,000–$65,000 in most neighborhoods
  • Rental fallback option: Average rent is $1,501/month in 2025

What makes flipping houses in Jacksonville especially appealing is the steady stream of buyers relocating from higher-cost metros. With four military bases, a major port, multiple universities, and a booming health care sector, the local economy provides long-term stability. Permitting is relatively streamlined, and Florida’s lack of state income tax makes the ROI even more attractive. For investors looking for a sunbelt market that’s still affordable, Jacksonville checks every box.

Why Flip in Jacksonville:
  • Entry-level price points with room for value-add upside
  • Short average days on market across most neighborhoods
  • Strong job base with a high percentage of VA-backed homebuyers
  • Excellent fallback as a rental if resale takes longer than expected

 

Charlotte, North Carolina

Flipping houses in Charlotte, North Carolina, has become one of the Southeast’s most lucrative investment strategies. With a median home value of $404,626 and rising demand from relocating professionals, Charlotte offers both equity growth and fast resales. Properties tend to sit on the market for just 16 to 20 days, giving flippers a chance to cycle through multiple projects a year. Resale profits in key neighborhoods like Plaza Midwood and Enderly Park often exceed $65,000 per flip.

  • Median home price: $404,626
  • Average flip profit: At least $60,000–$70,000 resale margins
  • Rental fallback option: Average rent is $1,663/month

Charlotte stands out for its strong job growth and supportive environment for real estate investors. Major employers like Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Atrium Health fuel demand, while the city’s permitting process is typically smooth, especially for light rehabs. North Carolina’s relatively low property taxes also help investors keep more of their profits. Whether your strategy is flipping or holding as a rental, Charlotte offers consistent opportunities with solid returns.

Why Flip in Charlotte:
  • Affordable entry point compared to other metros with similar growth
  • Homes sell quickly in most neighborhoods
  • Solid ROI for both flips and rentals
  • Permitting and renovations are relatively easy for light rehabbers

 

Indianapolis, Indiana

Indianapolis consistently ranks among the best places to flip houses thanks to its affordability, investor-friendly laws, and strong rental demand. The median home value hovers around $233,955, giving flippers a low entry point and strong upside. On average, flips yield more than $50,000–$60,000 in profit, depending on the neighborhood and scope of rehab. With average rents in Indianapolis at $1,265/month, it’s a reliable market for fallback rental strategies if your flip doesn’t sell quickly.

  • Median home price: $233,955
  • Average flip profit: More than $50,000–$60,000 in most areas
  • Rental fallback option: Average rent is $1,265/month

What makes real estate investing in Indianapolis so attractive is its balance of growth and predictability. The city boasts a low cost of living, strong local employers like Eli Lilly and IU Health, and one of the easiest permitting environments in the Midwest. For out-of-state flippers or beginners, Indy offers the ability to test renovation strategies with less capital at risk and a shorter timeline from purchase to profit.

Why Flip in Indianapolis:
  • Entry-level pricing perfect for new investors
  • Homes sell quickly in suburban neighborhoods
  • Strong rental income for backup strategies
  • Easy permitting and landlord-friendly laws

 

Atlanta, Georgia

Flipping houses in Atlanta has become one of the most profitable strategies in the Southeast. The median home value in Atlanta is around $335,963, yet many neighborhoods still offer properties well under that mark with strong upside potential. Investors regularly net more than $60,000–$75,000 per flip, depending on rehab level and location. And thanks to a competitive rental market averaging $1,774/month, it’s a viable market for both flips and buy-and-hold.

  • Median home price: $335,963
  • Average flip profit: More than $60,000–$75,000, depending on scope and neighborhood
  • Rental fallback option: Average rent is $1,774/month

What sets real estate investing in Atlanta apart is the blend of affordability and growth. Major employers like Delta, Emory University, and multiple Fortune 500 headquarters provide job stability, while redevelopment zones in areas like West End, East Atlanta, and Kirkwood continue to attract new buyers. The permitting process is manageable, and the volume of cash buyers in Atlanta means flippers can exit quickly when priced right.

Why Flip in Atlanta:
  • High flip margins with lots of cash buyers
  • Rental income offsets holding risk
  • Neighborhood redevelopment fuels demand
  • Investor-friendly metro with strong buyer activity

 

Detroit, Michigan

Real estate investing in Detroit offers some of the lowest entry prices of any major U.S. city. With a median home value of just $78,601, Detroit gives investors the opportunity to flip properties with limited capital and wide margins. Average flip profits can reach $40,000–$50,000 per deal, even with moderate renovations. And with rents averaging $1,320/month, holding as a rental is a smart fallback option.

  • Median home price: $78,601 
  • Average flip profit: $40,000–$50,000 on affordable properties
  • Rental fallback option: Average rent is $1,320/month

What makes flipping houses in Detroit so appealing is its raw potential. Dozens of neighborhoods are in active revitalization efforts, supported by state tax credits and investor incentives. The city also has a high percentage of vacant homes, creating ongoing opportunities for strategic renovations and resale. Plus, Detroit’s strong blue-collar roots, anchored by the auto industry and healthcare sector, provide a stable economic backbone.

Why Flip in Detroit:
  • Very low purchase prices for maximum profit margins
  • Strong rent-to-price ratios for backup rental strategy
  • Ideal for new flippers with smaller budgets
  • High availability of distressed and undervalued homes

 

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Pittsburgh offers a solid mix of low entry costs and steady buyer demand, making it ideal for investors looking to flip properties without overextending themselves. Homes are still priced well below many national markets, making it easier to buy in without a huge budget. Renovated properties often resell for more than $45,000 to $60,000 above purchase and rehab costs, depending on the area. And with average rents north of $1,750, it's also a market where holding as a rental remains a strong fallback if resale conditions shift.

  • Median home price: $244,928 
  • Average flip profit: $45,000–$60,000 resale margins
  • Rental fallback option: Average rent is $1,753/month

Pittsburgh is a standout city for flippers who want steady returns without inflated entry costs. The permitting process is relatively smooth, and the city’s economic base, anchored by universities, hospitals, and tech startups, continues to expand. Neighborhoods like Lawrenceville and the South Side Flats offer hot pockets of buyer demand, while still maintaining a price floor low enough to protect investor risk.

Why Flip in Pittsburgh:
  • Lower competition compared to larger East Coast markets
  • A thriving economy supported by universities and medical centers
  • High-quality tenants and solid resale values
  • Rental income supports long-term hold options

 

San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio continues to attract real estate investors thanks to its affordability, population growth, and strong flip margins. The median home value is around $256,363, giving flippers plenty of room to profit. Many investors see average resale gains between $50,000–$65,000 or more on successful flips. And if the flip doesn’t sell, the rental market offers a dependable fallback; monthly rent averages $1,286.

  • Median home price: $256,363 
  • Average flip profit: $50,000–$65,000 resale margins
  • Rental fallback option: Average rent is $1,286/month

Investors love San Antonio’s mix of military demand, healthcare expansion, and steady in-migration from other parts of the country. The city’s permitting process is more efficient than Austin’s, and there’s a solid base of reliable contractors and cash buyers. Whether you’re flipping in neighborhoods like Alamo Heights or building-to-rent on the outskirts, San Antonio offers a solid upside with manageable risk.

Why Flip in San Antonio:
  • Consistent buyer demand from military families and medical professionals
  • Lower home prices compared to Austin or Dallas
  • Strong rental market to hedge downside risk
  • Investor-friendly environment with quick permitting and high ROI potential

 



Honorable Mentions: Other Great Places to Flip Houses

These cities didn’t make the Top 10, but they’re still packed with potential. Whether it’s low acquisition costs, strong rental fallback potential, or improving job markets, these honorable mentions are worth watching if you’re looking to flip in 2025.

  • Las Vegas, NV: A competitive short-term rental market with fast appreciation and flip turnover.
  • Cleveland, OH: One of the most affordable cities for flippers with solid ROI potential.
  • Raleigh, NC: A booming tech hub with low inventory and rising property values.
  • Oklahoma City, OK: Low taxes, affordable homes, and a strong seller’s market make it flip-friendly.
  • St. Louis, MO: A cash-flowing market ideal for flips with rental backup plans if needed.
đź’ˇ Flipping isn’t just about location—it’s about the numbers.

Even if your city isn’t listed, you can still flip successfully. Our FREE Ultimate Guide to Start Real Estate Investing teaches you how to find, analyze, and flip properties in your market—without guesswork, cold calling, or big budgets.

 

Quick Comparison of Flip-Friendly Cities

Here’s a side-by-side look at the best places to flip houses in 2025. Use this table to compare prices, speed, and potential profit so you can zero in on the best markets for your strategy.

 

City Median Price Days on Market Avg Flip Profit Notes
Tampa, FL $376,278 35 $60K+ Fast growth, strong resale
Columbus, OH $256,012 39 $47K+ High investor activity
Phoenix, AZ $416,780 28 $55K+ Rapid price rebounds
Jacksonville, FL $290,108 45 $48K+ Low taxes, landlord-friendly
Charlotte, NC $404,626 20 $50K+ Tech jobs, steady growth
Indianapolis, IN $233,955 16 $45K+ Permit-friendly, low costs
Atlanta, GA $335,963 51 $52K+ Booming metro with cash buyers
Detroit, MI $78,601 43 $60K+ Ultra-low entry prices
Pittsburgh, PA $244,928 51 $42K+ Strong healthcare economy
San Antonio, TX $256,363 51 $49K+ Military base demand

 

How to Flip Your First House (Even If You’re Not in One of These Cities)

You don’t need to live in one of the “best cities” to flip houses successfully. In fact, many first-time investors find their best deals right in their own neighborhoods. With the right approach, you can build a profitable flipping strategy no matter where you live.

If you’re ready to start flipping houses in your area, download our free Ultimate Guide to Start Real Estate Investing. It teaches you exactly how to find local deals, evaluate opportunities, and take action—step by step.

What Makes a Market Great for Flipping Houses?

The best markets for flipping houses aren’t always the ones grabbing headlines; they’re the ones where the numbers make sense. A great flip market gives you room to buy low, renovate smart, and still sell at a profit without sitting on the property too long.

Here’s what we look for when evaluating whether a city is flipper-friendly: affordability, strong buyer demand, fast-moving inventory, and enough wiggle room between the purchase price and resale value. Lower holding costs and simple permit processes help too.

  • Low acquisition cost vs ARV spread: The wider the gap between the purchase price and the after-repair value, the greater your profit potential.
  • Speed of resale (DOM): Fewer days on market means faster closings, fewer holding costs, and less risk of market shifts.
  • Low holding costs: Favorable property taxes, affordable insurance, and minimal permit delays all help keep your overhead low while renovating.
  • Tax advantages: Some cities or states offer incentives for home improvement, opportunity zones, or favorable capital gains treatment.
  • Strong exit strategies: Whether you plan to sell or rent, the best markets offer flexibility, so you’re not stuck with an asset you can’t move.

Choosing the right market can be the difference between a profitable flip and a money pit. That’s why our top 10 list focuses on places where the numbers work, and the risk stays manageable.

Common Mistakes When Choosing a Flip City

Even experienced investors slip up when picking markets to flip houses. If you're just starting out, avoiding these common pitfalls can save you thousands of dollars and months of stress.

  • Buying in slow or declining markets: Without demand, your flip could sit for months or sell at a loss.
  • Failing to research permit timelines or local rehab costs: Some cities are notorious for red tape or inflated labor prices that eat into your profit.
  • Overestimating ARV: Many beginners assume they’ll get top dollar without accounting for realistic comps and buyer behavior.
  • Underestimating holding costs: Property taxes, utilities, loan interest, taxes on flipping houses, and insurance can stack up quickly the longer a flip takes.
  • Ignoring the end buyer pool: High-end flips in areas with few qualified buyers can stall, while entry-level homes sell faster in hot rental markets.

FAQ: Best Places to Flip Houses

Got questions about the best places to flip houses? Here are quick answers to the most common questions investors ask, whether you're just getting started or scaling up.

What state is best for flipping houses in 2025?

Some of the best states for flipping houses in 2025 include Florida, Ohio, and Texas. These markets offer a combination of low entry prices, strong population growth, and steady buyer demand. When choosing where to flip, always look for states with high ROI potential and investor-friendly regulations.

Where can I flip houses with low money down?

Markets like Detroit, Indianapolis, and Pittsburgh are great places to flip houses with less capital. Many properties are priced under the national median, and creative financing options—like hard money lenders or partnering with other investors—can reduce your upfront costs. Low acquisition costs make it easier to get started and scale up.

Is house flipping still profitable in 2025?

Yes, house flipping is still profitable in 2025, especially in markets where there's a healthy spread between purchase price and after-repair value (ARV). Success depends on smart deal analysis, speed of renovation, and understanding buyer demand. Profitable flips happen when investors buy right and sell fast in the right cities.

Can I flip homes without a license?

You can flip houses without a real estate license in most states, though having one may provide access to more deals. Instead, many flippers work with licensed agents or wholesalers to find and resell properties. Always check local laws and disclosure requirements before you start flipping homes without a license.

What’s the best city for first-time flippers?

Cities like Columbus, Tampa, and Charlotte are ideal for beginners. These markets offer affordable entry points, strong resale demand, and a supportive ecosystem of contractors, agents, and lenders. If you're new to flipping, starting in a market with lower risk and reliable comps can help you build confidence and profit.

Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Flip Houses

When it comes to flipping houses, success isn’t about chasing trendy zip codes; it’s about buying smart, running the numbers, and having a strategy that fits your market. Use this list of the best places to flip houses as a starting point for your research, but don’t wait for the “perfect” city. Deals exist everywhere for those who know how to find them. If you want to flip houses in your own backyard, download our free Ultimate Guide to Start Real Estate Investing and take the first step toward your next profitable project today.


If you’re serious about doing your first real estate deal, don’t waste time guessing what works. Our FREE Training walks you through how to consistently find deals, flip houses, and build passive income—without expensive marketing or trial and error.

This FREE Training gives you the same system our students use to start fast and scale smart. Watch it today—so you can stop wondering and start closing.


*Disclosure: Real Estate Skills is not a law firm, and the information contained here does not constitute legal advice. You should consult with an attorney before making any legal conclusions. The information presented here is educational in nature. All investments involve risks, and the past performance of an investment, industry, sector, and/or market does not guarantee future returns or results. Investors are responsible for any investment decision they make. Such decisions should be based on an evaluation of their financial situation, investment objectives, risk tolerance, and liquidity needs.

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