PITTSBURGH, PA.

Metro area population: 2,355,712
Median home price: $136,000
12-month change in home value: -0.3%
Affordability index: 2/10
Homes sold in 2008: 26,028
Home value vs. national average: -32%
Top employer: University of Pittsburgh Medical Center

Although Pittsburgh home sales have dipped 16% this year, the properties have retained their value. This "Pittsburgh paradox," as it's called by locals, is attributed to the city's steady population growth and the construction of new, high-value homes.

Despite its reputation as a gritty city of industry and steel, Pittsburgh is now driven by the health care and technology sectors.