Zillow predicts Atlanta will be one of the hottest housing markets in 2024

The big picture: Buffalo, New York; Cincinnati, Ohio; Columbus, Ohio; Indianapolis; Providence, Rhode Island; Atlanta; Charlotte, North Carolina; Cleveland, Ohio; Orlando, Florida; and Tampa, Florida, top this year's ranking.

Zoom in: Atlanta, No. 6 on the list, jumped three spots from last year.

• A fast-paced market and steady projected home values (+1.1%) contribute to Atlanta's rise.
• Job and population growth are on the rise, too.

What they're saying: "Housing markets are healthiest where affordable home prices and strong employment are giving young hopefuls a real shot at buying and starting to build equity," Zillow data scientist Anushna Prakash says.

The other side: Zillow reports the South, Midwest and Great Lakes regions are expected to thrive compared to the rest of the U.S. No markets in the western half of the country cracked the top 10.

• Home prices and homeownership rates are expected to decline in Denver, Houston, Minneapolis, New Orleans and San Antonio. These metro areas are expected to be the coolest in 2024, per the report.

Yes, but: Experts expect it to be another slow year in housing for everyone, with still-high mortgage rates pricing many out of buying — or selling.