For many in the LGBTQ community, homeownership is not just a financial milestone—it’s a personal triumph. It means safety, stability, and a place to call your own. But with skyrocketing prices and bidding wars in many urban markets, finding the right home can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, there are cities across the U.S. that are both LGBTQ-friendly and offer less competitive housing markets—making it easier for buyers to plant roots.
We teamed up with GayRealEstate.com, the nation’s leading platform connecting LGBTQ buyers and sellers with trusted, LGBTQ-friendly agents, to identify some top destinations where inclusivity meets affordability.
What Makes a City LGBTQ-Friendly and Buyer-Friendly?
Before diving into the list, we looked at cities that meet two critical criteria:
- A supportive, welcoming environment—including anti-discrimination laws, visible LGBTQ communities, and cultural inclusivity.
- Low to moderate housing market competition—defined by factors such as lower demand, reasonable time on market, and more affordable median home prices relative to local income.
Top LGBTQ-Friendly Cities with Low Housing Competition
1. Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh offers a rich cultural scene, a tight-knit LGBTQ community, and a cost of living well below the national average. Neighborhoods like Shadyside and Lawrenceville are popular with queer residents—and thanks to slower home sales, buyers have more time and leverage in negotiations.
Median Home Price: ~$220,000
Why It’s LGBTQ-Friendly: Pittsburgh has multiple Pride events, inclusive protections, and LGBTQ health resources.
2. St. Louis, MO
Often overlooked, St. Louis has vibrant queer neighborhoods like The Grove and Tower Grove South. The city’s housing market remains accessible, and Missouri’s lower property taxes make it easier for first-time buyers to step in.
Median Home Price: ~$215,000
Why It’s LGBTQ-Friendly: Active local LGBTQ organizations, trans support networks, and a welcoming arts community.
3. Buffalo, NY
Buffalo has undergone a revitalization in recent years, attracting artists, entrepreneurs, and LGBTQ residents looking for affordable living and strong community ties. While home values are rising, competition is still relatively low.
Median Home Price: ~$240,000
Why It’s LGBTQ-Friendly: NY state protections, thriving Pride scene, and LGBTQ-inclusive healthcare and legal services.
4. Albuquerque, NM
Albuquerque boasts sunny skies, progressive values, and a growing LGBTQ scene. With a slower-paced housing market compared to hotspots like Denver or Austin, it’s an attractive choice for those wanting space and sun.
Median Home Price: ~$270,000
Why It’s LGBTQ-Friendly: Inclusive policies, LGBTQ-owned businesses, and annual Pride celebrations.
5. Des Moines, IA
Iowa was ahead of the curve with marriage equality and continues to offer a progressive pocket in the Midwest. Des Moines has a welcoming community, affordable homes, and low market competition.
Median Home Price: ~$230,000
Why It’s LGBTQ-Friendly: Strong legal protections, inclusive schools, and a surprising number of queer-friendly spaces.
Finding a city that feels like home is about more than affordability—it’s about belonging. These cities offer a compelling mix of safety, support, and space for LGBTQ individuals and families to thrive without the stress of cutthroat bidding wars.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or relocating for a new chapter, it’s important to work with someone who understands your needs. That’s why GayRealEstate.com exists—to connect LGBTQ buyers and sellers with agents who truly get it.
“Our mission has always been to empower LGBTQ homebuyers with knowledge and connect them with professionals who are not only allies—but advocates.”
— GayRealEstate.com
