The price for an average home in Tucson is up a modest 2.06 percent in the lasts year but this remains one of the more affordable markets in the nation, according Coldwell Banker’s annual Home Price Comparison Index, released last week.

Called an "apples-to-apples" comparison, the survey prices an average 2,200 square-foot, four bedroom, 2½-bathroom home in 317 domestic markets and 77 international markets. In Tucson, that home sells for $286,667, putting the market alongside Spokane, Wash., at $286,250; Cherry Hill, N.J., at $287,167; and Gdansk, Poland, at $283,792.

Malcolm MacEwen, president and chief operating officer for Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Arizona, said the Tucson market continues to have a large inventory active listings which will have to be absorbed "before we return to a more normalized market." But he said the current market prices make this an especially advantegous opportunity for those looking to buy a first home or move-up home.

The average of all "average" homes in the United States is $422,343 and in Arizona is $373,231.

Within the state, the Coldwell Banker survey found the most expensive market is Scottsdale, where the average 2,200 square-foot home costs $525,667 and the least expensive market is Mesa where the home is priced at $257,467. The same-sized home in Phoenix is priced at $320,000.

The 2007 Coldwell Banker Home Price Comparison Index is online at www.coldwellbanker.com where a feature allows homeowners to compare what their current home might be worth in another market.