Realtor.com evaluated the 100 largest U.S. metro areas based on affordability and rates of new home construction, then ranked the ten best markets for buyers. The report highlights cities where local policy choices have helped keep housing costs in check despite broader market pressures.
fastcompany.com
· 2026-09-16
A new ranking of college towns identifies five markets where median asking home prices remain below $120,000, far under the roughly $400,000 national median. Most of these affordable areas are located in regions with harsh winters or extreme summer heat, which appears to keep demand—and prices—lower.
fastcompany.com
· 2026-09-09
Gap Inc. has appointed retail veteran Michael Francis to lead Old Navy, its largest brand by revenue. Francis previously helped shape Target's low-cost, design-forward strategy in the 2000s, and Gap is betting his experience can revive Old Navy at a moment when shoppers are especially price-sensitive.
fastcompany.com
· 2026-08-28
A growing number of American universities are rolling out three-year bachelor's degree options aimed at reducing tuition costs and time to graduation. The push targets nontraditional and older students, such as 34-year-old Giles Sims, who have been held back in the job market by not holding a degree. Advocates say the accelerated model addresses rising concerns over college affordability.
fastcompany.com
· 2026-08-24