In October 2006, the Census Bureau release data on shifts in median price home values from 2000 to 2005. For the 15 largest cities in the United States (based on household size), San Diego had the largest jump in median price with a whopping 127.2% increase. A ranking of the top 15 cities is provided below as well as data about the median home value in 2000, the median home value in 2005, as well as the percentage increase in real median home values from 2000 to 2005.

1.San Diego city, California. 2000 Value ($249,386); 2005 Value ($566,700); Change (127.2%).

2.Los Angeles city, California. 2000 Value ($244,398); 2005 Value ($513,800); Change (110.2%).

3.New York city, New York. 2000 Value ($250,746); 2005 Value ($449,000); Change (79.1%).

4.Phoenix city, Arizona. 2000 Value ($121,292) ; 2005 Value ($184,300); Change (51.9%).

5.Jacksonville city, Florida. 2000 Value ($95,333); 2005 Value ($144,600); Change (51.7%).

6.San Francisco city, California. 2000 Value ($479,161); 2005 Value ($726,700); Change (51.7%).

7.Chicago city, Illinois. 2000 Value ($163,575); 2005 Value ($245,000); Change (49.8%).

8.San Jose city, California. 2000 Value ($425,657); 2005 Value ($625,400); Change (46.9%).

9.Philadelphia city, Pennsylvania. 2000 Value ($69,148); 2005 Value ($100,200); Change (44.9%).

10.Houston city, Texas. 2000 Value ($87,852); 2005 Value ($112,800); Change (28.4%).

11.Detroit city, Michigan. 2000 Value ($71,188); 2005 Value ($88,300); Change (24%).

12.Dallas city, Texas. 2000 Value ($99,074); 2005 Value ($120,900); Change (22%).

13.Columbus city, Ohio. 2000 Value ($112,337); 2005 Value ($132,100); Change (17.6%).

14.San Antonio city, Texas. 2000 Value ($76,516); 2005 Value ($89,800); Change (17.4%).

15.Indianapolis city, Indiana. 2000 Value ($109,503); 2005 Value ($117,900) Change (7.7%).

Across the nation, the median home price in 2000 was $126,733, and in 2005 it jumped to $167,500. This represents a 32.2% increase in median price from 2000 to 2005.

If you have bought a property or are considering buying a home, condo or any other type of real estate in the areas listed above, then these numbers will be no surprise to you. The dramatic price increases in many communities is forcing people to reconsider where they live.

If you are considering moving to one of the cities above, be sure to consult with a knowledgeable Realtor in your chosen city. A local Realtor can advise you about what areas of a particular city are more expensive or affordable. This can help you find a home that is within your budget.

For more information of home price shifts, visit the Census Bureau’s Web site, and select the 2005 American Community Survey report.