New survey data reveals the U.S. housing affordability crisis continues to intensify. According to the findings, 49% of Americans now struggle with rent or mortgage payments, a sharp rise from 44% in May 2025. Generation Z is the most affected demographic, with 67% reporting financial hardship related to housing costs.
A recent survey by Redfin indicates nearly half of all Americans are struggling to afford their housing payments. The figure represents a significant increase from just months prior, highlighting a worsening national issue.
Generation Z is disproportionately impacted, with 67% facing housing affordability challenges. This is followed by 54% of Generation X, 53% of Millennials, and 36% of Baby Boomers.
“The US housing affordability crisis is somehow still getting worse,” stated The Kobeissi Letter in its analysis. The report notes many are making significant sacrifices to manage costs.
The most common trade-offs include eating out less, skipping vacations, and delaying medical treatments. Younger generations are taking more extreme measures to keep up with payments.
“Gen Zers are going further,” the report continued. Many are selling belongings, taking on side hustles, or moving back in with parents.
The financial barrier to homeownership has reached a new peak, according to the data. A potential homebuyer now needs an annual income of approximately $111,000 to afford a typical U.S. home.
This required income is about $25,000 higher than the current median household income. “Housing has never been so unaffordable in the US,” the analysis concluded.
