America's Best-Value ZIP Codes: High Scores, Low Prices (2026)

The best-value ZIP codes in America combine strong safety and school scores with home prices well below their state median. Leading the list is Victoria, Virginia (23974), which posts a 91 overall score and a 92 value score — top-tier quality at a fraction of the typical Virginia price.

How value is measured

NeighborScore's value score compares a ZIP's typical home price against its state median: the further below median, the higher the score, capped at 95. A high value score paired with a high overall score is the signal that matters — it means you are not trading safety or schools for affordability.

The top value ZIP codes

At the top, Victoria, VA (23974) leads with a 91 overall and 92 value. Hymera, Indiana (47855) and Shreveport, Louisiana (71101) both hit the value ceiling of 95 while still scoring 88–89 overall.

The Appalachian and Gulf belts are well represented: Martin, Kentucky (41649), Bellaire, Ohio (43906), and Malone, Florida (32445) all score 87 overall with value scores of 90 or higher.

The catch with value scores

A low price reflects local demand, job markets, and amenities as much as it reflects a bargain. The value score tells you a home costs less than its state's typical home; it does not promise appreciation or rental demand. Treat these ZIPs as a starting point for deeper research, not a buy signal.

Frequently asked questions

Does a high value score mean cheap homes?

It means homes are inexpensive relative to the state median — affordable for the area, not necessarily cheap in absolute terms in high-cost states.

How is the home-price data sourced?

Prices come from Zillow Research's ZIP-level home-value index, updated monthly.

Want the full methodology behind these numbers? Read how NeighborScore works. NeighborScore is a research tool — verify local market conditions before buying.