The number of people looking for affordability and a sense of community is definitely increasing.  

Affordability is the ratio between median house price and median income.

I recommend looking at diamond/coal city/Braidwood if looking for affordable properties.  

Housing is still affordable compared to other markets, which keeps renters and investors coming.

Many are choosing the most expensive they can afford on purpose.

Everywhere I turn all I see are pitches for affordable housing and the same (not so) compelling arguments regurgitated by syndicators, capital raisers, brokers etc. for the investment strategy....strong returns...lower volatility....supply (huh?)

When I followed the channel the idea was that affordability was constant and prices would return to the equilibrium of affordability. 

If you’re looking for affordable markets within two hours of Vegas, consider Pahrump, Henderson (select areas), or North Las Vegas—these markets offer lower prices with rental demand.

Affordability Relative to Neighboring CitiesWhile Denver's home values have risen, they remain competitive compared to nearby urban centers.

For the very expensive states like NY, MA, CA, housing is extremely expensive, almost too much for someone on minimum wage to afford.