Best market for first house hack to cash flow? FL, TX, AZ, UT, other?

[Kegan Scholl]

-22 years old

-$50,000 pre tax income from business this year

-80k in savings

-30k in investments

-pre approved for $350,000 (had to use parents as co-signers because I started business 2 years ago and didn’t make much first year)

Looking to get into first house by house hacking a 4 bed 2 bath renting out 3 rooms. Preferably stay for one year and find another house. Ideally want to break even or cash flow with the 3 tenants.

Now question is this: I was wanting to buy in Tampa, FL. I’m told taxes and insurance is lot and will rise each year and cash flow is hard to come by. So is there better markets to buy in (in big cities)? Or can I find something in Tampa? I’ve been interested in TX, AZ, UT, NC or anywhere in FL.

Also any advice for me is appreciated (save up more, focus on business instead, etc)

Any more info you need comment below! Thanks for advice.

[Wale Lawal]

@Kegan Scholl

From my experience, if you're a 22-year-old house hacker, Texas and similar markets can be great for room rentals thanks to population growth, strong demand, and tourism. Focus on areas with sustainable taxes and long-term rental demand, targeting groups like college students, young professionals, or travel nurses. Research market rents, carefully calculate expenses, and ensure you have a solid lease agreement. Building a strong financial plan, researching markets, assembling a reliable team, and having an exit strategy are essential steps to success.

Good luck!

[Jackson Harris]

Hey Keegan for the best return, I would say AZ. It is consistently ranks in the top 5 areas for real estate investing for a reason. 

There are multiple cities here in Maricopa County that would allow you to house hack and cash flow. I know a few investors that do it here in Tempe, Mesa, and Glendale - not to mention you can do it in Phoenix as well. 

I'd be happy to get on a call and discuss more about this market to get you a better idea of what to expect from AZ.

[Grant Schroeder]

@Kegan Scholl definitely connect with @Jackson Harris and dive into the AZ market if you have not already! Phoenix, AZ/Maricopa County, AZ is an incredible place to invest and house hack.

[Annie Seurer]

You can probably find good deals in Tampa right now, but I'd be very strategic about where you buy and yes, insurance and taxes can be killer, but there are plenty of investors there and for good reason. 

[Jorge Vazquez]

After 20 years as an investor, broker, and lender, I can tell you that house hacking is one of the smartest ways to start. Tampa can work, but yes, taxes and insurance are higher and might keep cash flow tight. If you’re set on Florida, focus on areas just outside the main city that are still growing—you’ll find better deals there. Markets like Texas (San Antonio or Dallas) or North Carolina (Charlotte) could offer better cash flow with lower costs. My advice: don’t overthink it—your first house hack is about learning, so pick a strong rental market, ensure solid demand, and lock in a deal that gets you close to break-even or better. You’re already way ahead by getting started young—keep going!