Kansas

wikimedia.org/public domain

Kansas

Metro: Wichita
What a Home Will Be Worth in 2012: $128,261
Q4 2008 price: $125,000
Projected price change by MSA: +2.6
Projected price change by state: +1.5%

Home prices have remained relatively flat in Wichita though sales have slowed. Despite its relatively healthy housing market, Wichita has contributed to the unhealthy American diet. Both Pizza Hut and White Castle got their start in Wichita. The city prides itself on its western heritage and is home to the Old Cowtown Museum, a living history museum. It also has a symphony, art museum, and a zoo. Koch Industries, the nation's second-largest privately held company, is also based in Wichita.