Palm Bay in Brevard County has claimed the top spot in WalletHub's latest ranking of the best cities for first-time home buyers, edging out competitors nationwide. The personal finance company analyzed 300 cities using metrics like affordability, market attractiveness, and quality of life, with three Florida cities making the top 10. First-time buyers now account for just 21% of the national market, the lowest share since the National Association of Realtors began tracking data in 1981. "Buying a home for the first time is an exciting milestone, but it's getting harder," WalletHub said in its report, noting that rising prices and interest rates have pushed many first-time buyers out of the market. The ranking highlights Palm Bay's combination of low home prices and strong job growth, though the city's population of about 55,000 means it's a small but growing market. Other Florida cities in the top 10 include Tampa and Orlando, while Arizona dominated the list with eight of the top 10 spots. WalletHub's methodology compared median home prices, average income, and cost of living, with Palm Bay scoring high on affordability. The report also noted that first-time buyers face challenges nationwide, with cash-strapped buyers making up a record low of 21% of sales. Local real estate agents in Brevard County said the ranking could draw attention to the area's housing market, though they cautioned that inventory remains tight. "It's a good sign for the region," said one agent, "but prices are still up compared to a few years ago."