Fresno is getting the credit it deserves and is receiving statewide attention for its affordability and community.

Here's why buying a home in Fresno and Clovis makes sense right now.

For years, Fresno has been the city people loved to talk down. Lately, the headlines sound different. The California Post recently called Fresno California's unlikely new boomtown, pointing to its affordability and a growing number of newcomers from Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Jose. Then FOX26 News came out to our model homes to ask what we're seeing on the ground. Those of us who live here were not surprised. Fresno and Clovis have always been wonderful places to put down roots, and more people are discovering what locals have known all along. If buying a home in Fresno has been on your mind, here's what we shared with KMPH FOX26, and why we believe right now is a great time to make the move.

Who's buying homes in Fresno right now

When FOX26 asked who is coming through our doors in a recent article, the answer was a healthy mix. About half of the buyers we meet already live in the Fresno area or elsewhere in the Central Valley, whether they're buying a first home or moving up to more space. The other half are relocating, from Northern California, Southern California and even from out of state. This month especially, the number of families setting appointments and visiting each of our communities has kept our team very busy. Interest is strong, and it's coming from every direction.

More home for the money

Affordability is a big part of the story. According to the California Post, the median home in California sold for just under $900,000 in September, while the median in Fresno was about $400,000. In practical terms, the same home here is often about half the price of what it would cost in Northern or Southern California. Many times, it comes with more yard or more square footage for the same monthly payment, or even less.

A better place to raise a family

Price is only part of it. Life here simply has more room in it. Fresno and Clovis offer great schools, great restaurants and a real sense of community, where neighbors know each other and local businesses are supported. That community spirit shows up in the numbers too. FOX26 reported that a study using U.S. Census Bureau data ranked Fresno first in California for new business survival, with more than 69% of new businesses still operating after five years. And the location is hard to beat. We're close to the mountains, the coast, the Bay Area and Southern California, without the cost of living in any of them. A home here can mean less financial stress and more time together.

Why now is a good time to buy

Rates go up and down over the years. What really matters is landing on a monthly payment that feels comfortable and a home that makes life better. As Ashley De Young shared with FOX26, "it is a very good time to buy right now." Year end savings events are happening now at select De Young communities, and those savings may be used to help buy the interest rate down and lower the monthly payment. For anyone ready to settle in sooner, move in ready homes are available too.

The De Young difference

We've been a family building for families in the Valley since 1974, with more than 8,000 homes built. Our team lives here, works here and raises our kids here too, so we stand behind every homeowner before, during and after the build.

A few things that set our homes apart:

• A 2 year fit & finish limited warranty, double the 1 year coverage that's standard across the industry
• Our De Young SmartHome with features like 2x6 advanced framed walls, which allows extra insulation for lower energy bills and more comfort in every season
• Floorplans people wait years for, including our Icon and Discover Series
• Multi generational suites available in select floorplans
• Our new Freedom and Compass Series, at Horizon Trails at Blossom View, with what matters built in from the start: washer, dryer, refrigerator and blinds, plus lower maintenance living
• Owned solar included at select communities, like Sereno at Tesoro Viejo
• Best Builder, 2026 CVLUX Luxury Awards Come see it for yourself

Building a new home right now makes more sense than it ever has, because it's not about the rate. It's about landing on a monthly payment that works for each family, and a home that truly improves life.

We'd love to show you around. Schedule your visit to any De Young model home, and our team will share the details about the year end savings available at select De Young communities with you.

[Schedule Your Visit]

Sources referenced: FOX26 KMPH, "Fresno's growth boosts small businesses and housing demand as more families put down roots," Nov. 2, 2026. The California Post, coverage of Fresno as California's new boomtown and statewide median home prices, Oct. 2026.

The De Young 2 year fit & finish limited warranty is offered at select communities, double the 1 year coverage that's standard across the industry.