Several decades ago, when LGBTQ individuals and families were looking for a house to purchase, they almost always started their search in the local gay neighborhood or gay district. These areas were seen as a haven, a place where they could rest easy knowing that their neighbors weren’t going to engage in hate crimes against them. Today, things are a little different. While there are certainly still those who attack others for being a part of the LGBTQ community, acceptance is much more widespread.

The Millennial Homebuyer Doesn’t Feel Locked into a Gay District

Today’s young homebuyers have, as a whole, put off buying property immediately after college or until they have established their career. These millennials have more debt than any generation before them, owing thousands of dollars in student loans and facing an economy that hasn’t seen wages increase with the cost of living. Jobs are much more competitive, and many have decided to rent longer or even live with their parents until they can confidently buy.

But as many entered their late 20s and early 30s, they did start buying. However, those who identify as LGBTQ weren’t always quick to call up a gay or lesbian real estate agent and ask to see homes in the gayborhood. There are several reasons why this is the case.

It’s Expensive

Prices in many gay districts, especially well-known neighborhoods such as Boystown in Chicago or the Castro in San Francisco, have increased to the point that new buyers simply can’t afford them. In fact, some homeowners in these areas were pushed out during the gentrification of the neighborhood. Many of these are historic homes, which only adds to their value. Buying in many gay neighborhoods is now only for those who have very good salaries or have inherited money.

Location, Location, Location

Today’s LGBTQ homebuyers have different priorities than those who primarily bought in the gay district. Now they’re looking for specific school zones, short commutes, and the ability to walk to places. The location of their new home dictates a lot, and often LGBTQ neighborhoods are simply too far away from where they want to be.

Acceptance Has Risen

Many young LGBTQ homebuyers feel very accepted, especially in more liberal parts of the country. They don’t have to worry about hiding who they are or about buying in a specific neighborhood. They consider the entire city when looking for a home, and while some do still buy in a predominantly LGBTQ area, they no longer feel as if they must.

We’ve all heard of the Castro District, Boystown, Chelsea, Dupont Circle, and many of the other established and popular gay neighborhoods. While these communities continue to thrive, a number of new LGBTQ neighborhoods have popped up over the years. Some come and go fairly quickly, but others are poised to become modern spaces that LGBTQ individuals and families will call home. Here are a few of these emerging LGBTQ communities.

The Marmalade

The Marmalade is a neighborhood in Salt Lake City, Utah, the home base of the decidedly anti-LGBTQ Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. However, the city itself is surprisingly open and welcoming to those of all orientations. Same-sex marriage was actually legal here a year before the Supreme Court made it nation-wide. The city swore in an openly gay man as its mayor in 2016.

The Marmalade is home to various gay bars, clubs, and other businesses owned by members of the community. Housing here is quite affordable, and many young professionals are calling the neighborhood home. The Marmalade is quickly transforming into a hub for new businesses and those looking for comfortable, affordable homes.

Andersonville

While Chicago is known for its gay neighborhood of Boystown, that’s not the only LGBTQ community. Andersonville is situated on the north part of the city. Originally made up mostly of Swedish immigrants, today this neighborhood has many amazing restaurants and boutiques. It’s become more than just a great LGBTQ community—it’s known as one of the best in Chicago. One of the neighborhood’s strengths is that it doesn’t try to be Boystown or any other gay neighborhood. Instead, it has created a unique atmosphere all its own.

Bywater

In New Orleans, the French Quarter is the traditional gay neighborhood, but the Bywater District has recently emerged as a more affordable alternative. This area is home to many new businesses, an open-air market, and much more. It’s less of a tourist destination, too, so it’s usually much quieter. It’s home to the renowned Country Club, which allowed gay members to join back in 1977. This was one of the first places to allow openly LGBTQ members at the time, and today, it’s the center of the community.

If you’re looking for a great LGBTQ neighborhood but find some of the more established areas to be outside of your price range, you can always talk to a gay or lesbian real estate professional about homes in one of your city’s emerging gay ghettos. These new communities may have just what you’re looking for.