The Top 5 Fastest-Growing MLO Markets You Should Consider
Curious about what it’s like in mortgage? Get real insights and sweet deals on getting licensed.
Quick Answer
- Lead generation opportunities: Growing markets mean more potential clients
- Commission potential: Higher home values and transaction volumes boost earnings
- Career longevity: Sustainable growth ensures long-term success
- Work-life balance: Some markets offer better quality of life for part-time MLOs seeking flexibility
The Top 5 Fastest-Growing MLO Markets for 2025
1. Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale, Arizona
Why It's Hot: Arizona's housing market continues to attract attention from remote workers, retirees, and those seeking a lower cost of living without sacrificing lifestyle. According to Federal Housing Finance Agency data, the Valley of the Sun combines year-round sunshine with a booming tech sector and steady population growth.
Market Highlights:
- Median home price growth outpacing national averages
- Strong job market in technology, healthcare, and finance
- Growing inventory helping ease price pressures
- Excellent networking opportunities for new MLOs
Career Advantages:
- High transaction volumes mean more commission opportunities
- Diverse client base from first-time buyers to luxury investors
- Strong referral networks among real estate professionals
Starting your journey as an MLO in Phoenix means tapping into one of the most dynamic markets in the country.
2. Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Why It's Hot: The Research Triangle continues its decade-long expansion, fueled by major tech companies, prestigious universities, and a business-friendly environment. North Carolina markets are seeing renewed strength with thousands of new home purchases.
Market Highlights:
- Tech hub attracting high-income professionals
- Below-national-average cost of living
- Strong population growth from domestic migration
- Balanced market conditions favoring steady growth
Career Advantages:
- Educated client base comfortable with digital mortgage processes
- Growing demand for jumbo loans and complex financing
- Collaborative professional community
The Triangle's growth shows no signs of slowing, making it ideal for MLOs who want to build a sustainable career in a market with long-term potential.
3. Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater, Florida
Why It's Hot: Florida's gulf coast combines no state income tax with year-round warmth and a thriving business environment. Tampa Bay has emerged as a major destination for relocating professionals and growing families.
Market Highlights:
- Existing home sales increased 6.1% from last year, the fastest pace since June 2021
- Diverse economy spanning healthcare, finance, and tourism
- Growing inventory providing more opportunities
- Strong rental market supporting investment property financing
Career Advantages:
- Year-round transaction activity
- Mix of primary residences and investment properties
- Large retiree population seeking refinancing options
- No state licensing reciprocity issues for Florida-licensed MLOs
Understanding the full scope of an MLO's daily work in Florida means preparing for a fast-paced, relationship-driven market.
4. Salt Lake City, Utah
Why It's Hot: Utah's capital offers a unique combination of outdoor recreation, tech industry growth, and family-friendly communities. The "Silicon Slopes" phenomenon continues attracting companies and talent.
Market Highlights:
- Youngest population in the nation driving first-time buyer demand
- Tech sector growth creating high-paying jobs
- Strong local economy with low unemployment
- Geographic constraints on housing supply supporting values
Career Advantages:
- High percentage of first-time buyers needing guidance
- Growing demand for FHA and VA loans
- Strong community networks facilitating referrals
- Lower cost of living than coastal tech hubs
For MLOs who value work-life balance, Salt Lake City offers the flexibility to build a thriving practice while enjoying world-class outdoor recreation.
5. Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos, Texas
Why It's Hot: Despite recent cooling from pandemic peaks, Austin remains a long-term growth story. The tech capital of Texas continues attracting major employers and young professionals.
Market Highlights:
- No state income tax attracting high earners
- Continued corporate relocations and expansions
- Growing inventory creating balanced market conditions
- Strong rental market supporting investment activity
Career Advantages:
- Tech-savvy population embracing digital mortgage solutions
- High average loan amounts boosting commission potential
- Diverse economy providing recession resistance
- Vibrant networking scene for relationship building
The mortgage education you receive will serve you well in Austin's sophisticated, fast-moving market.
Is Mortgage Lending Right for You? What to Expect from MLO Jobs
MLOs help people become homeowners. If you are motivated and detail-oriented, this career may be a good fit for you.
Market Intelligence: What the Data Tells Us
TransUnion projects mortgage originations will rise to 5.7 million in 2025 from approximately 4.6 million in 2024, with the bulk coming from purchase loans. This growth isn't evenly distributed—it's concentrated in markets with specific characteristics:
Population Growth: Counties like Sweetwater, WY and Carteret, NC continue to attract attention from remote workers, retirees, and those seeking a lower cost of living
Economic Diversity: Markets with multiple industry sectors show more resilience
Inventory Dynamics: For-sale inventory has started to grow somewhat, which is helping to ease price pressures in many markets
First-Time Buyer Activity: According to HUD's National Homeownership Month data, an increasing share of first-time homebuyers have turned to newly built homes as an option, with 72.6% of Ginnie Mae's new issuances in 2025 supporting first-time homebuyers
Positioning Yourself for Success in Any Market
Regardless of which market you choose, success requires preparation and strategy:
1. Get Licensed Strategically
The timeline to become a licensed MLO typically ranges from 4 to 8 weeks. Consider:
- State-specific requirements in your target market
- Reciprocity agreements if you plan to work across state lines
- Local market knowledge requirements
2. Develop Market Expertise
Your NMLS education provides the foundation, but local expertise sets you apart:
- Study local housing trends and neighborhoods
- Understand state-specific loan programs
- Build relationships with local real estate professionals
- Learn about regional economic drivers
3. Embrace Technology
According to recent Federal Reserve data, AI and ML algorithms are becoming more sophisticated, allowing for faster and more accurate credit assessments, underwriting, and fraud detection. Modern MLOs must:
- Master digital application platforms
- Utilize CRM systems effectively
- Leverage social media for lead generation
- Offer virtual consultations and e-closings
4. Build Your Network Early
Successful MLOs understand that relationships are the currency of the mortgage world:
- Join local real estate associations
- Attend community events
- Partner with real estate agents
- Develop referral relationships with financial advisors
The Compensation Reality in Growing Markets
Understanding earning potential is crucial when selecting a market. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for loan officers was $74,180 in May 2024, but top performers in growing markets often earn significantly more.
Commission Structure Advantages:
- Higher home values = larger loan amounts = bigger commissions
- Increased transaction volume in growing markets
- Opportunity for repeat business and refinances
- Referral-based growth potential
At Innovative Mortgage, MLOs benefit from a 100% compensation model, demonstrating how the right company in the right market can maximize earning potential.
Future-Proofing Your MLO Career
The mortgage industry's evolution demands adaptability. MBA's baseline forecast is for mortgage rates to end 2025 at 5.9 percent and remain close to that level for the forecast horizon. This stability, combined with demographic trends, creates sustainable opportunity.
Key Trends to Watch:
- Demographics continue to support housing demand, as younger age cohorts are either in or entering prime homeownership ages
- Digital transformation accelerating client expectations
- Increasing importance of specialized knowledge (VA loans, FHA programs, jumbo mortgages)
- Growing demand for bilingual MLOs in diverse markets
Taking Action: Your Next Steps
- Research Your Target Market: Use comprehensive mortgage education resources to understand licensing requirements and market dynamics
- Start Your Education: Begin your pre-licensing journey with a program designed for success
- Network Strategically: Connect with professionals already working in your target market
- Plan Your Transition: Whether you're making a career change or starting fresh, create a timeline that accounts for licensing, job search, and market entry
Take the First Step Today
Start your journey with Aceable Mortgage, which sets you up for success and is built for aspiring professionals ready to grow, not guess.