BREAKING: The Northeast is set to dominate the real estate landscape in 2026, according to the latest report from PwC and the Urban Land Institute (ULI). With cities like Jersey City and Brooklyn climbing the ranks, experts predict a significant shift in investment and development opportunities.
Just announced in the Emerging Trends in Real Estate report, more than 1,000 industry professionals participated in a survey that highlighted the hottest markets poised for growth. This report signals a crucial moment for investors as the Northeast gains traction amidst a backdrop of economic recovery.
Jersey City has soared a staggering 17 spots up the rankings, now recognized as a prime market, fueled by its close proximity to Manhattan and increasing demand for housing among professionals returning to the office. In the first half of 2025, the city attracted $177.4 million in investments, with a substantial 65% allocated for apartments, according to data from CBRE Research and MSCI.
PwC partner Andrew Alperstein emphasized the transformation, stating, “It’s really a story around New York City and some of the back to office and back to living in the city that we’ve seen.” This shift is particularly appealing to millennials seeking affordable living options near urban amenities.
As the traditional strongholds of the Sun Belt cool off, cities like Austin face challenges due to a lack of economic diversity. Only two Texas markets made it into the top ten, while the Northeast showcases four, indicating a decisive turn in real estate trends.
The following are the top markets to watch in 2026 according to PwC and ULI:
1. Dallas-Fort Worth, TX
2. Jersey City, NJ
3. Miami, FL
4. Brooklyn, NY
5. Houston, TX
6. Nashville, TN
7. Northern New Jersey
8. Tampa-St. Petersburg, FL
9. Manhattan, NY
10. Phoenix, AZ
These rankings underscore the importance of affordability, job diversity, and vibrant amenities in driving real estate success. As cities adapt to the evolving demands of a post-pandemic world, investors and homebuyers alike should closely monitor these emerging opportunities.
What’s next? With the demand for housing continuing to rise, real estate professionals urge stakeholders to stay informed about these shifts. The implications for economic growth and community development are profound, making it an essential time to engage with these trends.
Stay tuned for further updates as the real estate landscape evolves.