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10 Cities Where Buying Is Better than Renting for Boomers
Written by
Sean Fisher, AI Editor
Edited by
Sean Fisher

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For many baby boomers, the decision to buy or rent a home is a crucial one, influenced by financial stability, lifestyle preferences, and long-term goals. While renting has become more cost-effective in many U.S. cities due to rising mortgage rates and high home prices, there are still several metropolitan areas where buying a home is the smarter financial move. Here are ten cities where buying is better than renting for boomers.
Cleveland, Ohio
Monthly Mortgage: $1,730Monthly Rent: $1,800Difference: -3.9%
Cleveland offers a notable advantage for buyers, with a $70 difference favoring homeownership. With 57% of properties being cheaper to buy than rent, boomers can find affordable options and enjoy long-term savings.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Monthly Mortgage: $1,869Monthly Rent: $2,000Difference: -6.6%
In Philadelphia, buying a home saves an average of $131 per month compared to renting. This significant saving can add up over the years, providing financial benefits and stability for retirees.
Detroit, Michigan
Monthly Mortgage: $1,296Monthly Rent: $1,697Difference: -23.6%
Detroit stands out with the highest savings, where buying is $401 cheaper than renting monthly. With 80% of properties cheaper to buy than rent, it’s an excellent market for boomers looking to maximize their savings and build equity.
Indianapolis, Indiana
Monthly Mortgage: $1,188Monthly Rent: $1,383Difference: -$195Annual Savings: $2,340
Indianapolis offers significant savings for buyers, with annual savings of $2,340 compared to renting. This city’s affordable housing market makes it an attractive option for boomers seeking financial stability.
Atlanta, Georgia
Monthly Mortgage: $1,663Monthly Rent: $1,861Difference: -$198Annual Savings: $2,376
In Atlanta, buying a home can save you $198 per month, resulting in annual savings of $2,376. This vibrant city provides a cost-effective opportunity for boomers to settle down and enjoy their retirement.
Dayton, Ohio
Monthly Mortgage: $956Monthly Rent: $1,157Difference: -$201Annual Savings: $2,412
Dayton offers a great financial advantage for buyers, with a monthly savings of $201 compared to renting. Boomers can enjoy a lower cost of living while investing in property that appreciates over time.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Monthly Mortgage: $1,154Monthly Rent: $1,460Difference: -$306Annual Savings: $3,672
New Orleans provides substantial savings for homebuyers, with an annual savings of $3,672 over renting. The city’s rich culture and affordable housing make it an appealing choice for retirees.
Birmingham, Alabama
Monthly Mortgage: $973Monthly Rent: $1,281Difference: -$308Annual Savings: $3,696
In Birmingham, buying a home can save you $308 per month compared to renting. The city’s affordable home prices and low cost of living make it an ideal place for boomers to invest in real estate.
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Monthly Mortgage: $953Monthly Rent: $1,265Difference: -$312Annual Savings: $3,744
Oklahoma City offers significant savings for homebuyers, with a monthly difference of $312. The city’s affordable housing market provides an excellent opportunity for boomers to secure their financial future and enjoy a comfortable retirement.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Monthly Mortgage: $1,068Monthly Rent: $1,299Difference: -$231Annual Savings: $2,772
Pittsburgh offers a monthly savings of $231 for homebuyers compared to renters. With an annual savings of $2,772, boomers can benefit from the city’s affordable housing market while enjoying its vibrant cultural scene and high quality of life.
Editor's note: This article was produced via automated technology and then fine-tuned and verified for accuracy by a member of GOBankingRates' editorial team.
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