Portugal, Canada, and the United States were the countries with the highest house price to income ratio in 2024. In all three countries, the index exceeded 130 index points, while the average for all OECD countries stood at 116.2 index points. The index measures the development of housing affordability and is calculated by dividing nominal house price by nominal disposable income per head, with 2015 set as a base year when the index amounted to 100. An index value of 120, for example, would mean that house price growth has outpaced income growth by 20 percent since 2015. How have house prices worldwide changed since the COVID-19 pandemic? House prices started to rise gradually after the global financial crisis (2007–2008), but this trend accelerated with the pandemic. The countries with advanced economies, which usually have mature housing markets, experienced stronger growth than countries with emerging economies. Real house price growth (accounting for inflation) peaked in 2022 and has since lost some of the gain. Although, many countries experienced a decline in house prices, the global house price index shows that property prices in 2023 were still substantially higher than before COVID-19. Renting vs. buying In the past, house prices have grown faster than rents. However, the home affordability has been declining notably, with a direct impact on rental prices. As people struggle to buy a property of their own, they often turn to rental accommodation. This has resulted in a growing demand for rental apartments and soaring rental prices.

Geneva stands out as Europe's most expensive city for apartment purchases in early 2025, with prices reaching a staggering 15,720 euros per square meter. This Swiss city's real estate market dwarfs even high-cost locations like Zurich and London, highlighting the extreme disparities in housing affordability across the continent. The stark contrast between Geneva and more affordable cities like Nantes, France, where the price was 3,700 euros per square meter, underscores the complex factors influencing urban property markets in Europe. Rental market dynamics and affordability challenges While purchase prices vary widely, rental markets across Europe also show significant differences. London maintained its position as the continent's priciest city for apartment rentals in 2023, with the average monthly costs for a rental apartment amounting to 36.1 euros per square meter. This figure is double the rent in Lisbon, Portugal or Madrid, Spain, and substantially higher than in other major capitals like Paris and Berlin. The disparity in rental costs reflects broader economic trends, housing policies, and the intricate balance of supply and demand in urban centers. Economic factors influencing housing costs The European housing market is influenced by various economic factors, including inflation and energy costs. As of April 2025, the European Union's inflation rate stood at 2.4 percent, with significant variations among member states. Romania experienced the highest inflation at 4.9 percent, while France and Cyprus maintained lower rates. These economic pressures, coupled with rising energy costs, contribute to the overall cost of living and housing affordability across Europe. The volatility in electricity prices, particularly in countries like Italy where rates are projected to reach 153.83 euros per megawatt hour by February 2025, further impacts housing-related expenses for both homeowners and renters.

Avg Housing Price: Free Market: More than 5 Years Old: Ciudad Real data was reported at 951.800 EUR/sq m in Mar 2018. This records a decrease from the previous number of 953.500 EUR/sq m for Dec 2017. Avg Housing Price: Free Market: More than 5 Years Old: Ciudad Real data is updated quarterly, averaging 1,041.900 EUR/sq m from Mar 2010 (Median) to Mar 2018, with 33 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 1,730.100 EUR/sq m in Dec 2011 and a record low of 947.400 EUR/sq m in Sep 2014. Avg Housing Price: Free Market: More than 5 Years Old: Ciudad Real data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Ministry of Public Works. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Spain – Table ES.P003: Housing Prices: Free Market: by Region and Major City.

Avg Housing Price: Free Market: More than 5 Years Old: Caceres data was reported at 998.800 EUR/sq m in Mar 2018. This records a decrease from the previous number of 1,055.400 EUR/sq m for Dec 2017. Avg Housing Price: Free Market: More than 5 Years Old: Caceres data is updated quarterly, averaging 1,120.900 EUR/sq m from Mar 2010 (Median) to Mar 2018, with 33 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 1,426.000 EUR/sq m in Jun 2011 and a record low of 998.800 EUR/sq m in Mar 2018. Avg Housing Price: Free Market: More than 5 Years Old: Caceres data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Ministry of Public Works. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Spain – Table ES.P003: Housing Prices: Free Market: by Region and Major City.

Avg Housing Price: Free Market: More than 5 Years Old: Alicante data was reported at 1,122.200 EUR/sq m in Mar 2018. This records an increase from the previous number of 1,101.400 EUR/sq m for Dec 2017. Avg Housing Price: Free Market: More than 5 Years Old: Alicante data is updated quarterly, averaging 1,080.400 EUR/sq m from Mar 2010 (Median) to Mar 2018, with 33 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 1,461.800 EUR/sq m in Jun 2010 and a record low of 1,035.000 EUR/sq m in Mar 2014. Avg Housing Price: Free Market: More than 5 Years Old: Alicante data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Ministry of Public Works. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Spain – Table ES.P003: Housing Prices: Free Market: by Region and Major City.

Avg Housing Price: Free Market: Barcelona data was reported at 3,300.100 EUR/sq m in Sep 2018. This records an increase from the previous number of 3,297.300 EUR/sq m for Jun 2018. Avg Housing Price: Free Market: Barcelona data is updated quarterly, averaging 3,071.100 EUR/sq m from Mar 2005 (Median) to Sep 2018, with 55 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 3,950.200 EUR/sq m in Jun 2008 and a record low of 2,385.200 EUR/sq m in Mar 2014. Avg Housing Price: Free Market: Barcelona data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Ministry of Public Works. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Spain – Table ES.P003: Housing Prices: Free Market: by Region and Major City.

Key information about House Prices Growth

• US house prices grew 5.2% YoY in Dec 2024, following an increase of 5.4% YoY in the previous quarter.
• YoY growth data is updated quarterly, available from Mar 1992 to Dec 2024, with an average growth rate of 5.4%.
• House price data reached an all-time high of 17.7% in Sep 2021 and a record low of -12.4% in Dec 2008.

CEIC calculates House Prices Growth from quarterly House Price Index. Federal Housing Finance Agency provides House Price Index with base January 1991=100.

The price of residential property in New Zealand was the highest in the Auckland region in June 2025, with an average sale price of around ******* New Zealand dollars. The most populated city in the country, Auckland, has consistently reported higher house prices compared to most other regions. Buying property in New Zealand, particularly in its major cities, is expensive. The nation has one of the highest house-price-to-income ratios in the world. Auckland residential market The residential housing market in Auckland is competitive. Prices have been slowly decreasing; the Auckland region experienced an annual decrease in the average residential house price in March 2025 compared to the same month in the previous year. The price of residential property in Auckland was the highest in the North Shore City district, with an average sale price of around **** million New Zealand dollars. Home financing Due to the rising cost of real estate, an increasing number of New Zealanders who want to own their own property are taking on mortgages. Most residential mortgage lending in New Zealand went to owner-occupier borrowers, followed by first home buyers. In addition to mortgage lending, previously under the KiwiSaver HomeStart initiative, first-home buyers in New Zealand were able to apply to withdraw all or part of their KiwiSaver retirement savings to assist with purchasing a first home. Nonetheless, the scheme was discontinued in May 2024. Furthermore, even with a large initial deposit, it may take decades for many borrowers to pay off their mortgage.

Avg Housing Price: Free Market: More than 5 Years Old data was reported at 1,559.400 EUR/sq m in Mar 2018. This records an increase from the previous number of 1,550.700 EUR/sq m for Dec 2017. Avg Housing Price: Free Market: More than 5 Years Old data is updated quarterly, averaging 1,517.500 EUR/sq m from Mar 2010 (Median) to Mar 2018, with 33 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 1,835.500 EUR/sq m in Mar 2010 and a record low of 1,445.100 EUR/sq m in Sep 2014. Avg Housing Price: Free Market: More than 5 Years Old data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Ministry of Public Works. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Spain – Table ES.P003: Housing Prices: Free Market: by Region and Major City.

In the fourth quarter of 2024, the Bulgaria, Spain, and Portugal registered the highest house price increase in real terms (adjusted for inflation). In Bulgaria, house prices outgrew inflation by nearly ** percent. When comparing the nominal price change, which does not take inflation into consideration, the average house price growth was even higher.

Meanwhile, many countries experienced declining prices, with Turkey recording the biggest decline, at ** percent. That has to do with a broader trend of a slowing global housing market.

The Malaysian residential property market, valued at RM 22.41 billion in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, exhibiting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.90% from 2025 to 2033. This positive outlook is driven by several key factors. Firstly, a growing population and increasing urbanization are fueling demand for housing, particularly in major cities like Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru. Secondly, government initiatives aimed at improving affordability and access to housing, such as affordable housing schemes and loan programs, are stimulating market activity. Furthermore, ongoing infrastructure development, including improved transportation networks and public amenities, enhances the attractiveness of residential areas, driving property values upwards. However, challenges remain. Interest rate fluctuations and economic uncertainty can impact buyer confidence and affordability. Stringent lending regulations and rising construction costs also act as potential restraints on market expansion. Key players such as Platinum Victory, Matrix Concepts Holdings Bhd, Mah Sing Group Bhd, Sime Darby Property, IGB Berhad, IOI Properties, Glomac Bhd, SP Setia, UEM Sunrise, and Eco World Development Group Berhad are shaping the competitive landscape through diverse offerings and strategic land acquisitions. The segment analysis, while not explicitly provided, likely reflects the diverse housing types available, encompassing luxury condominiums, high-rise apartments, landed properties (e.g., bungalows, terrace houses), and affordable housing units. Future growth will depend on a careful balance between addressing affordability concerns, managing construction costs, and leveraging continued economic growth to drive sustained demand within the Malaysian residential property market. The projected market size in 2033, extrapolated from the 2025 value and CAGR, suggests significant expansion potential. Competitive differentiation, innovative project designs, and sustainable development practices will be critical for success in this dynamic market. Key drivers for this market are: 4., Increasing Residential Real Estate Demand by Young People4.; Increase in Average Housing Price in Mexico. Potential restraints include: 4., Lack of Affordable Housing Inhibiting the Growth of the Market4.; Economic Instability Affecting the Growth of the Market. Notable trends are: Increase in Urbanization Boosting Demand for Residential Real Estate.

Avg Housing Price: Free Market: Less than 5 Years Old: Badajoz data was reported at 1,155.800 EUR/sq m in Mar 2018. This records an increase from the previous number of 1,138.600 EUR/sq m for Mar 2016. Avg Housing Price: Free Market: Less than 5 Years Old: Badajoz data is updated quarterly, averaging 1,385.700 EUR/sq m from Mar 2010 (Median) to Mar 2018, with 19 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 1,617.400 EUR/sq m in Jun 2010 and a record low of 1,097.500 EUR/sq m in Dec 2013. Avg Housing Price: Free Market: Less than 5 Years Old: Badajoz data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Ministry of Public Works. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Spain – Table ES.P003: Housing Prices: Free Market: by Region and Major City.

Avg Housing Price: Free Market: More than 5 Years Old: Almeria data was reported at 1,119.700 EUR/sq m in Mar 2018. This records an increase from the previous number of 1,081.100 EUR/sq m for Dec 2017. Avg Housing Price: Free Market: More than 5 Years Old: Almeria data is updated quarterly, averaging 1,220.100 EUR/sq m from Mar 2010 (Median) to Mar 2018, with 33 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 1,772.300 EUR/sq m in Jun 2010 and a record low of 1,048.200 EUR/sq m in Sep 2017. Avg Housing Price: Free Market: More than 5 Years Old: Almeria data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Ministry of Public Works. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Spain – Table ES.P003: Housing Prices: Free Market: by Region and Major City.

Avg Housing Price: Free Market: Less than 5 Years Old: Leon data was reported at 1,234.700 EUR/sq m in Dec 2017. This records a decrease from the previous number of 1,484.100 EUR/sq m for Dec 2016. Avg Housing Price: Free Market: Less than 5 Years Old: Leon data is updated quarterly, averaging 1,519.500 EUR/sq m from Mar 2010 (Median) to Dec 2017, with 19 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 1,868.300 EUR/sq m in Dec 2011 and a record low of 1,234.700 EUR/sq m in Dec 2017. Avg Housing Price: Free Market: Less than 5 Years Old: Leon data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Ministry of Public Works. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Spain – Table ES.P003: Housing Prices: Free Market: by Region and Major City.

Korea Median Housing Price: Total: 6 Large Cities: Incheon data was reported at 21,320.232 KRW tt in Sep 2018. This records an increase from the previous number of 21,262.911 KRW tt for Aug 2018. Korea Median Housing Price: Total: 6 Large Cities: Incheon data is updated monthly, averaging 19,100.706 KRW tt from Apr 2013 (Median) to Sep 2018, with 66 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 21,331.862 KRW tt in Jan 2018 and a record low of 17,046.938 KRW tt in Sep 2013. Korea Median Housing Price: Total: 6 Large Cities: Incheon data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Kookmin Bank. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Korea – Table KR.EB033: Median Housing Price: Kookmin Bank.

Selling prices for residential real estate in the city of Florence in Italy show significant differences depending on the area. In fact, in ************, residential properties in districts like Michelangelo, Porta Romana, Oltrarno (all located on the other side of the river Arno compared to the historical city center) cost roughly ***** euros per square meter. By contrast, areas like Firenze Sud and L’Isolotto, both relatively far from the city center, recorded an average selling price of ***** and ***** euros per square meter, respectively.  Residential real estate in Florence compared to other major Italian cities   The residential real estate market in Florence seems to be doing well. Selling prices for residential properties increased overall in the last few years, exceeding ***** euros per square meter in ************. In comparison, Florence's prices are between Rome's and Milan's averages. Residential properties in Rome, for instance, registered an average price of ***** euros per square meter. Office space in Italian cities  Due to more and more people moving to the cities, especially young graduates looking to start a new career, office space is also very in-demand in major cities around the world. Italy is no exception. This trend led to an increase in the price for office spaces in the north of the country. A few examples? An office in Venice can fetch on average ***** euros per square meter. Setting up a workspace in Rome and Milan seems to be cheaper. In the two major Italian cities office space cost on average approximately ************** euros per square meter.

In 2023, the average price of real estate in China was approximately ****** yuan per square meter, representing a decrease from the previous year. Rising prices in the real estate market Since the 1998 housing reform, property prices in China have been rising continuously. Housing in the country is now often unaffordable, especially considering the modest per capita income of Chinese households. Shanghai and Beijing even have some of the most competitive real estate markets in the world. The rapid growth in housing prices has increased wealth among homeowners, while it also led to a culture of speculation among buyers and real estate developers. Housing was treated as investments, with owners expecting the prices to grow further every year. Risk factors The expectation of a steadily growing real estate market has created a property bubble and a potential debt crisis. As Chinese real estate giants, such as China Evergrande and Country Garden, operate by continuously acquiring land plots and initiating new projects, which often require substantial loans and investments, a slowdown in property demands or a decline in home prices can significantly affect the financial situation of these companies, putting China’s banks in a vulnerable position. In addition, due to a lack of regulations and monetary constraints, the long-term maintenance issues of high-rise apartments are also a concern to the sustainable development of China’s cities.

Korea Median Housing Price: Total: 6 Large Cities: Busan data was reported at 23,684.110 KRW tt in Jun 2018. This records a decrease from the previous number of 23,693.159 KRW tt for May 2018. Korea Median Housing Price: Total: 6 Large Cities: Busan data is updated monthly, averaging 19,217.431 KRW tt from Apr 2013 (Median) to Jun 2018, with 63 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 23,963.527 KRW tt in Sep 2017 and a record low of 16,857.545 KRW tt in Apr 2013. Korea Median Housing Price: Total: 6 Large Cities: Busan data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Kookmin Bank. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Korea – Table KR.EB033: Median Housing Price: Kookmin Bank.

Key information about House Prices Growth

• Indonesia house prices grew 1.4% YoY in Dec 2024, following an increase of 1.5% YoY in the previous quarter.
• YoY growth data is updated quarterly, available from Mar 2003 to Dec 2024, with an average growth rate of 3.1%.
• House price data reached an all-time high of 13.5% in Sep 2013 and a record low of 1.0% in Jun 2021.

CEIC calculates House Prices Growth from quarterly Residential Property Price Index. Bank Indonesia provides Residential Property Price Index with base 2018=100. House Prices Growth covers 18 major cities. House Prices Growth prior to Q1 2019 is calculated from House Price Index with base 2002=100. House Prices Growth prior to Q1 2013 covers 14 major cities.

Korea Median Housing Price: Apartments: 6 Large Cities: Gwangju data was reported at 18,270.274 KRW tt in Nov 2018. This records an increase from the previous number of 18,174.950 KRW tt for Oct 2018. Korea Median Housing Price: Apartments: 6 Large Cities: Gwangju data is updated monthly, averaging 16,028.350 KRW tt from Apr 2013 (Median) to Nov 2018, with 68 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 18,270.274 KRW tt in Nov 2018 and a record low of 12,602.957 KRW tt in May 2013. Korea Median Housing Price: Apartments: 6 Large Cities: Gwangju data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Kookmin Bank. The data is categorized under Global Database’s South Korea – Table KR.EB033: Median Housing Price: Kookmin Bank.