Real estate investors across North America are preparing to deploy more capital as market conditions stabilize and interest rates begin to settle. According to the 2026 North American Investor Intentions Survey by CBRE, 74% of investors plan to purchase more real estate in 2026 than they did in 2025, reflecting renewed confidence in the market.
The survey highlights several cities where investor interest is especially strong. These markets combine population growth, expanding economies, and strong real estate fundamentals—factors that tend to attract long-term capital.
Below are some of the fastest-growing cities drawing investor attention right now, along with why they continue to rank among the most targeted real estate markets.
1. Dallas–Fort Worth, TX
Dallas–Fort Worth once again ranked as the top target for real estate investment in the CBRE survey, marking the fifth consecutive year the metro has held the top position. Few markets in the United States combine growth and scale the way Dallas does.
The region continues to attract major corporate relocations and expansions, particularly from technology, finance, and logistics companies. Firms moving from higher-cost states like California have helped fuel both job creation and population growth across North Texas.
Dallas also benefits from relatively affordable housing compared with coastal cities, which allows both investors and residents to enter the market at lower price points while still benefiting from long-term appreciation. The combination of economic expansion, strong migration trends, and a large housing market makes Dallas one of the most consistently attractive investment destinations in the country.
2. Atlanta, GA
Atlanta ranked second among the most attractive real estate investment markets in the CBRE survey, and it continues to grow as one of the economic centers of the Southeast.
The city’s economy is highly diversified, with strong employment in finance, logistics, media, healthcare, and technology. Atlanta is also home to one of the busiest airports in the world, making it a major transportation hub that supports continued economic expansion.
From a housing perspective, Atlanta has one of the largest renter populations in the United States, which makes it particularly attractive for investors targeting multifamily or rental properties. Combined with steady population growth and ongoing development throughout the metro area, Atlanta remains one of the most active real estate investment markets in the country.
3. San Francisco, CA
San Francisco ranked third in investor interest, signaling a notable shift after several challenging years for the Bay Area real estate market.
Many investors now view the region as an opportunity to re-enter at more attractive valuations following market adjustments in the office sector. Despite recent volatility, San Francisco remains one of the most important technology hubs in the world, with companies such as Salesforce, Google, and numerous startups continuing to anchor the local economy.
Long-term demand for housing remains extremely strong due to limited supply and high wages in the tech sector. As a result, investors increasingly see San Francisco as a long-term appreciation play, particularly in residential and mixed-use properties.
4. Charlotte, NC
Charlotte has emerged as one of the fastest-rising cities for real estate investment, climbing significantly in the CBRE survey rankings.
The city has developed into one of the largest banking and financial centers in the United States, with major institutions like Bank of America and Truist headquartered there. This financial sector presence supports a strong job market and attracts a highly educated workforce.
Charlotte is also benefiting from migration from more expensive coastal cities. Compared to markets like New York or Washington, D.C., Charlotte offers relatively affordable housing and a lower cost of living, which continues to draw both residents and investors.
These factors have helped Charlotte become one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the Southeast.
5. Nashville, TN
Nashville has become one of the most talked-about growth markets in the United States, and the city has reentered the top 10 investment markets in the CBRE survey.
The city’s economy has expanded rapidly over the past decade, particularly in healthcare, technology, and entertainment industries. Major companies have relocated or expanded operations in the region, contributing to strong job creation and population growth.
Nashville also benefits from its reputation as a cultural and lifestyle destination, attracting both young professionals and retirees. With a steady influx of new residents and increasing housing demand, investors continue to view Nashville as a strong long-term growth market.
6. Tampa, FL
Tampa has become one of the fastest-rising investment markets in Florida, climbing several positions in the latest investor survey.
The broader Tampa–St. Petersburg region has experienced significant population growth, driven largely by migration from higher-cost states in the Northeast and Midwest. Florida’s lack of state income tax and warm climate have made the region particularly attractive for both individuals and businesses relocating to the state.
Tourism, healthcare, and financial services are all major contributors to the local economy, and the region’s growing population has created strong demand for rental housing. These factors have made Tampa a favorite among investors looking for markets with both lifestyle appeal and economic momentum.
7. Seattle, WA
Seattle has returned to the list of top investment markets, reflecting renewed confidence in the city’s long-term economic strength.
The Seattle economy is anchored by a powerful technology sector led by companies such as Amazon and Microsoft. These companies continue to attract highly skilled workers to the region, supporting strong wage growth and housing demand.
While housing prices remain high compared to many U.S. markets, investors continue to target Seattle because of its strong economic fundamentals and long-term population growth. In particular, multifamily housing and urban residential developments remain popular investment targets.
The Bigger Trend: Investors Are Following Growth
Across these cities, a clear pattern emerges. Investors are concentrating capital in places where three key factors align:
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Population growth and migration
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Strong job creation
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High demand for housing
Cities in the Sun Belt—such as Dallas, Atlanta, Charlotte, Nashville, and Tampa—continue to attract significant investment because they offer room for expansion and relatively affordable housing.
At the same time, major gateway cities like San Francisco and Seattle are seeing renewed investor interest as long-term growth prospects remain strong.
Why These Cities Matter for Buyers and Investors
When investors begin targeting specific markets, it often signals where housing demand is likely to grow in the future. Increased investment typically leads to:
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more development
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rising property values
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stronger rental demand
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expanding local economies
For homebuyers, understanding where investors are concentrating capital can offer useful insight into which cities may experience continued growth in the years ahead.
And as the latest CBRE survey shows, the cities attracting investment today are often the same places where population, employment, and housing demand are growing the fastest.
