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U.S. Homebuyers Face Higher Prices Amid Improving Affordability

3/8/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Affordability for U.S. homebuyers is improving, with median-income households able to buy homes priced at $331,483, up from $301,181 last year.
This change is partly due to mortgage-rate movements, with rates at 6.14% up from 5.99%.
The median home price remains at $400,300, requiring an income of $94,032 to qualify for a mortgage.
Buyers still face high prices and elevated mortgage rates as home values outpace income growth since 2000.

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Story summary

Affordability for U.S. homebuyers is improving, with median-income households able to buy homes priced at $331,483, up from $301,181 last year.
This change is partly due to mortgage-rate movements, with rates at 6.14% up from 5.99%.
The median home price remains at $400,300, requiring an income of $94,032 to qualify for a mortgage.
Buyers still face high prices and elevated mortgage rates as home values outpace income growth since 2000.