top of page
Search

The Unaffordable Housing Market: Where It's Getting Worse – And Why

The U.S. housing market has faced significant shifts since the pandemic, with more than 40% of the top 100 metropolitan markets grappling with a lack of affordable housing. While some areas are beginning to stabilize, the affordability crisis continues to challenge middle- and lower-income buyers. Visit ReadySetLoan to explore strategies for navigating these market challenges.


RSL Piggy Points


  • 🐷 Lower-Income Buyers Struggle: Buyers earning under $75,000 annually could afford just 8.7% of listings in March 2025, down from 27.8% in March 2019.

  • 🐷 Middle-Income Buyers Squeezed: Households earning between $75,000 and $100,000 annually can afford only 21.2% of homes for sale — a steep drop from nearly 49% in 2019.

  • 🐷 High-Income Households Unaffected: Buyers earning $250,000 or more can afford over 80% of current home listings.


Affordability Trends Across U.S. Metros


The Affordability Breakdown


The latest report from the National Association of Realtors and Realtor.com provides a sobering look at where affordability is deteriorating — and where it’s starting to improve. While Midwest markets like Akron, Ohio, and Pittsburgh, PA, are considered balanced, other regions are struggling:

  • Seattle and Washington, D.C.: Households need to earn over $150,000 annually to afford even half the homes available.

  • Southern California and New York City: Severe affordability crises driven by high construction costs, restrictive zoning, and a lack of buildable land.

  • Texas, Denver, and San Francisco: Inventory gains show promise, with more affordable listings than in previous years.


ReadySetLoan can help you understand how these trends may impact your homebuying journey. Visit ReadySetLoan for more information.


Neil Caron's Take

"For potential buyers feeling priced out, now is the time to get creative with financing," says Neil Caron, Area Manager at CMG Mortgage. "Programs like FHA loans, down payment assistance, and mortgage buydowns can open doors that may seem closed."


RSL Perspective

The affordability crunch may feel insurmountable, but opportunities exist — especially for first-time buyers. At ReadySetLoan, we’re here to educate, guide, and connect you with resources that make homeownership possible. Visit ReadySetLoan to learn more about programs tailored for first-time and moderate-income buyers.


Take Action

Wondering how to navigate today’s challenging market? Contact ReadySetLoan today to explore your options, whether you’re buying your first home or looking for creative refinancing solutions. Stay informed, stay ready, and keep your eye on the finish line.



Comments

bottom of page