Cities with cap rates below 3% — appreciation-driven markets where cash flow is difficult at median prices. We track 243 cities in this range.
Cities in the below 3% cap rate range represent appreciation-focused markets where cash flow is secondary to equity growth. The 243 cities in this tier have an average home price of $470K and average rents of $1,716/mo. Prices are 41% above the national average, reflecting the premium paid for markets with stronger fundamentals or growth prospects.
The top performer in this tier is Kahului, HI with a 3.0% cap rate at $990K. The most affordable entry is Tiffin, OH at $165K. For growth, Frisco, TX leads with 4.2% annual population growth.
Property taxes average 1.17% in this tier, in line with the 1.08% national average. Vacancy rates average 5.1%, and population growth averages 1.02% annually. Positive growth supports sustained rental demand and long-term appreciation.
Below 3% cap rates, the investment thesis shifts to appreciation and equity growth. If you invest in this tier, ensure you can sustain negative or minimal cash flow, or use strategies like house hacking to make the numbers work.