At Duke Properties, we spend a lot of time studying both the obvious trends and the quiet undercurrents of America’s housing markets. And every so often, a place rises into national focus not because it’s flashy, but because it offers something deeper: balance, beauty, and a lifestyle buyers are increasingly chasing. This year, that place is Fairport, New York.
Nestled along the historic Erie Canal and just outside Rochester, Fairport has been named the fourth-hottest neighborhood in the entire country, according to Redfin’s 2025 national analysis. That’s a stunning placement for a village of just over 5,000 people, now sharing the spotlight with urban neighborhoods like Brooklyn’s Prospect Heights and San Francisco’s Polk Gulch.
What makes this surge especially impressive is that it’s not based on speculation—it’s driven by strong fundamentals and buyer desire. Fairport represents the very best of what homebuyers are looking for in today’s market: quality of life, community charm, and smart value.
Fairport’s Real Estate Rise: A Market That’s Heating Up Fast
Let’s talk numbers. In January and February of this year, 81% of homes in Fairport sold above their listing price—a remarkable figure that tells us just how competitive the market has become. Homes are spending an average of just eight days on the market, down from 10 days last year, and the median sale price has jumped 9.4% to $350,000.
These are more than statistics. They’re signals that Fairport’s real estate scene has gone from sleepy to sizzling. In Monroe County as a whole—which includes Rochester—the market has also been identified as one of the fastest-selling regions in the state. But Fairport leads that pack.
As a developer and property owner, when I see homes selling over ask in under two weeks, I see not just demand—I see confidence. Buyers believe in the long-term value of this community, and they’re willing to move fast to be part of it.
Small Town, Big Appeal
So, what’s behind Fairport’s appeal? For starters, it delivers on a lifestyle that’s increasingly in demand. Buyers today are not only looking for space—they’re looking for connection. They want walkability, access to nature, good schools, and vibrant local businesses. Fairport delivers all of that and more.
The village’s scenic canal-side setting offers boating, kayaking, and miles of trails. Its Main Street is lively and full of unique local shops—and you might even spot the occasional celebrity, like Jimmy Fallon, enjoying a pint at Mulconry’s Irish Pub. Add in a top-rated public school system, and you have a picture-perfect mix of livability and value.
In real estate, we often talk about the “intangibles”—those hard-to-measure qualities that give a place its heart. Fairport has those in spades. Whether it’s the sight of early morning fog rolling over the canal, or the sense of history in its architecture and civic pride, Fairport feels like home—even before you move in.
The Broader Trend: Affordability Meets Livability
Fairport’s rise also reflects a broader shift we’re watching closely at Duke Properties. As prices in traditional urban centers remain high, buyers—especially remote workers, families, and retirees—are looking beyond the obvious metro areas. They’re finding value in places like Fairport, where quality of life doesn’t require sacrificing affordability.
At $350,000, the median home price in Fairport is still well below national averages for competitive markets. That means buyers can enter with confidence and, in many cases, see appreciation almost immediately, thanks to limited inventory and strong local interest.
Final Thoughts
Fairport’s sudden popularity may seem surprising on the surface—but to those of us who’ve watched these trends develop, it makes perfect sense. This village has all the right ingredients to support long-term growth: a desirable location, rich community life, smart pricing, and an undeniable charm.
As Fairport continues to grow in national recognition, one thing is certain—this is more than just a hot streak. It’s a signal that buyers are redefining what the “ideal neighborhood” really means. And Fairport is leading that charge.
If you’re looking for a place that offers stability, character, and the kind of living you can’t put a price on, Fairport might just be your next destination.
— Albert Dweck
Founder & CEO, Duke Properties