As of now, the housing market in the United States is experiencing a shift in price trends. The most significant area to look at for housing prices is in the suburban and rural markets. This trend is driven by several factors, including affordability concerns in urban areas, remote work becoming more prevalent, and the overall economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The suburban and rural markets have seen a surge in demand due to their lower housing prices compared to urban centers. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the median existing-home price for suburban markets increased by 13.9% in the year ending in April 2021, while urban markets saw a 10.8% increase. This indicates that buyers are seeking more affordable options outside of the city limits.

The rise in remote work has also played a crucial role in this trend. With many companies adopting flexible work policies, employees are no longer limited to living in urban areas with high housing costs. This has led to a migration of workers to suburban and rural areas, further driving up demand and prices in these regions.

Additionally, the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has created a situation where many homeowners are looking to downsize or move to more affordable areas. The NAR reported that the median existing-home price for all housing types increased by 17.2% in the year ending in April 2021, with the largest price gains occurring in the South and West regions, which are predominantly suburban and rural areas.

In conclusion, the suburban and rural housing markets are the areas to look at for housing prices now due to affordability concerns, the rise of remote work, and the economic impact of the pandemic. These factors have collectively led to a surge in demand and price increases in these regions.