Methodology
Explore the methods behind Zillow’s housing market data, metrics and research. Learn how we turn millions of data points into consistent measures that help make sense of housing trends across markets and over time.
Zillow Home Value Index
The Zillow Home Value Index measures typical home values across regions using a neural network approach. It provides insights into home price trends and helps buyers and sellers understand market valuations at various geographic levels.
Updated monthly
Zillow Observed Rent Index
The Zillow Observed Rent Index measures rent trends across U.S. housing markets using a repeat-rent approach. It provides insights into rental market dynamics and helps researchers understand rent growth patterns in different geographies.
Updated monthly
Buy vs. Rent Breakeven
The Zillow Buy vs. Rent Breakeven measures the time horizon required for buying to become more cost-effective than renting. It provides insights into housing affordability trade-offs and helps consumers make informed decisions about homeownership.
Updated monthly
ZHVI by Race
The Zillow Home Value Index by Race measures home value trends across neighborhoods with different racial compositions. It provides insights into housing equity and helps researchers understand valuation patterns in racially diverse communities.
Updated annually
Market Heat Index
The Zillow Market Heat Index measures market competitiveness across metro areas by analyzing listing views, time on market, and price changes. It provides insights into buyer demand intensity and helps home shoppers identify competitive markets.
Updated monthly
Zillow Observed Rent Forecast
The Zillow Observed Rent Forecast measures future rent trends using time-series forecasting models. It provides insights into expected rental market conditions and helps renters and investors anticipate future rent changes. Updated monthly with 12-month forward projections.
Updated monthly
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