The state's longer-established temptations are its schools and its clean air, plus the second-lowest average commute time in the nation and the lowest median house price.

ECONOMIST: North Dakota

Homes in most areas across New Zealand are increasing in affordability due to very low mortgage rates and the median house price is now only 355, 000 New Zealand dollars.

BBC: Living in: golf areas

In America, 65% of people on average incomes can afford a median-price house.

ECONOMIST: Housing may be California's biggest long-term problem

House construction is counted in GDP as a percentage of the median selling price at the time of the start, exaggerating the subtraction when prices are falling along with volumes.

FORBES: Wal-Mart Or Malpass?