A lot of the answer depends on neighborhood-level differences, so comparing several areas side by side usually helps.

Local costs beyond the headline price often make a big difference, especially taxes, insurance, fees, and commuting expenses.

This is a great topic because city-level advice is useful, but the block-by-block or neighborhood-by-neighborhood details matter even more.

I would also look at long-term convenience, not just price, because access, traffic, safety, and day-to-day livability affect value a lot.