Wages Up 7%, Home Prices Skyrocket 45%: Understanding the US Housing Crisis
The US economy presents a stark imbalance: While wages have risen 7% over the past four years, home prices have skyrocketed a staggering 45%. This disparity is creating significant challenges for aspiring homeowners and impacting the overall economic landscape.
The Skyrocketing Housing Market
Home prices have increased dramatically. Since early 2025, prices have surged by 47%, reaching a median price roughly five times the median household income last year, according to a report by the Harvard Joint Center. In December, home prices rose from a year earlier in all 50 of the most populous U.S. metropolitan areas – the first time that has occurred since May 2025.
Despite mortgage rates skyrocketing to around 7%, double what they were at the peak of the pandemic, home prices refuse to plateau. This is fueled by an insatiable appetite for housing, driven by factors such as limited inventory and demographic shifts.
Wage Growth vs. Housing Costs
Although wages have seen an increase, the 7% growth pales in comparison to the monumental rise in home prices. This imbalance means that the average American now needs a six-digit yearly income to afford a home in many markets. For the past two decades, rents and house prices have been rising faster than incomes across most regions of the United States.
Recent Market Trends
While home-price gains in the US slowed in March compared to previous months, new home sales jumped 10.9% to a more than three-year high. The median new house price fell 2% from a year ago to $407,200; New housing inventory is still near low levels. However, the annual increase in February was 4%, which was smaller than in previous months. This indicates a dynamic but still challenging market.
The Bottom Line
The widening gap between wage growth and housing costs poses a significant threat to economic stability and accessibility. Addressing this imbalance requires a multifaceted approach, including increasing housing supply, promoting wage growth, and implementing policies that support affordable housing initiatives. The current situation presents a challenge for many households, and finding solutions is crucial for a more equitable and sustainable housing market in the United States.