The homeownership rate was the highest among Americans in their early 70s and the lowest among people in their early 20s in 2023. In that year, approximately ** percent of individuals aged 70 to 75 resided in a residence they owned, compared to approximately **** percent among individuals under the age of 25. On average, **** percent of Americans lived in an owner-occupied home. The homeownership rate was the highest in 2004 but has since declined.

About ** percent of younger millennials (ages 26 to 34) bought a house in the United States in 2024 because they desired to have their own home, compared to ** percent of the older millennials. For the older generations, like the older boomers (ages 70 to 78) and the silent generation (ages 79 to 99), the main reason for purchasing homes in 2024 was to move closer to family, friends, and relatives.

The homeownership rate in the United States declined slightly in 2023 and remained stable in 2024. The U.S. homeownership rate was the highest in 2004 before the 2007-2009 recession hit and decimated the housing market. In 2024, the proportion of households occupied by owners stood at **** percent in 2024, *** percentage points below 2004 levels. Homeownership since the recession The rate of homeownership in the U.S. fell in the lead up to the recession and continued to do so until 2016. Despite this trend, the share of Americans who perceived homeownership as part of their personal American dream remained relatively stable. This suggests that the financial hardship caused by the recession led to the fall in homeownership, rather than a change in opinion about the importance of homeownership itself. What the future holds for homeownership Homeownership trends vary from generation to generation. Homeownership among Americans over 65 years old is declining, whereas most Millennial renters plan to buy a home in the near future. This suggests that homeownership will remain important in the future, as Millennials are forecast to head most households over the next two decades.

In 2022, San Jose, CA, was the hottest market for millennial homebuyers in the United States. Millennials in San Jose were responsible for nearly 64 percent of the house purchase requests. Denver, CO, and Boston, MA, completed the top three with over 60 percent of purchase requests. Which are the states with the youngest population in the U.S.? It should come as no surprise that the demographic composition plays a central role in the development of the housing market in different states. In 2020, the median age in the United States was 38.2 years, but some states, such as Alaska, District of Columbia, and Utah had much younger population. In contrast, Maine, Puerto Rico, and Hampshire had the highest median age of population. Millennials’ attitudes towards homeownership While many millennials have given up on homeownership, one in three people share that they are in the process of saving for a home purchase. These results suggest that young Americans have not entirely given up on the American dream of owning a home of their own.

About 36 percent of homeowners in England were aged 65 and above, which contrasts sharply with younger age groups, particularly those under 35. Young adults between 25 and 35, made up 15 percent of homeowners and had a dramatically lower homeownership rate. The disparity highlights the growing challenges faced by younger generations in entering the property market, a trend that has significant implications for wealth distribution and social mobility. Barriers to homeownership for young adults The path to homeownership has become increasingly difficult for young adults in the UK. A 2023 survey revealed that mortgage affordability was the greatest obstacle to property purchase. This represents a 39 percent increase from 2021, reflecting the impact of rising house prices and mortgage rates. Despite these challenges, one in three young adults still aspire to get on the property ladder as soon as possible, though many have put their plans on hold. The need for additional financial support from family, friends, and lenders has become more prevalent, with one in five young adults acknowledging this necessity. Regional disparities and housing supply The housing market in England faces regional challenges, with North West England and the West Midlands experiencing the largest mismatch between housing supply and demand in 2023. This imbalance is evident in the discrepancy between new homes added to the housing stock and the number of new households formed. London, despite showing signs of housing shortage, has seen the largest difference between homes built and households formed. The construction of new homes has been volatile, with a significant drop in 2020, a rebound in 2021 and a gradual decline until 2024.

In 2021, 57 percent of millennials or Generation Ys in Thailand owned a house while 43 percent of them did not. Owning a house has been one of the leading things millennials in Thailand aspire to have in their life.

Owning a home has traditionally been an integral part of the "American dream", but for millennials entering the housing market has been notoriously difficult. Between 2018 and 2022, the share of millennials in the United States who expect to always rent their home increased from 13.3 to 24.7 percent. As the youngest demographic in the housing market, people under 35 years have a homeownership rate much lower than any other generation.

The distribution of all owner-occupier households in England in 2024 varied per age group, as well as the type of home financing. The older the age group, the larger the share of owner-occupier homeowners who purchased their home outright. A share of 2.1 percent of own outright homeowners were between the ages of 25 to 34, whereas a share of 62.1 percent of own outright homeowners were aged 65 and over. Although this is the case, the largest share of homeowners who purchased their house with a mortgage was in the age range of 35 to 44 years old.

This map layer shows the prevalent generations that make up the population of the United States using multiple scales. As of 2018, the most predominant generations in the U.S. are Baby Boomers (born 1946-1964), Millennials (born 1981-1998), and Generation Z (born 1999-2016). Currently, Millennials are the most predominant population in the U.S.A generation represents a group of people who are born around the same time and experience world events and trends during the same stage of life through similar mediums (for example, online, television, print, or radio). Because of this, people born in the same generation are expected to have been exposed to similar values and developmental experiences, which may cause them to exhibit similar traits or behaviors over their lifetimes. Generations provide scientists and government officials the opportunity to measure public attitudes on important issues by people’s current position in life and document those differences across demographic groups and geographic regions. Generational cohorts also give researchers the ability to understand how different developmental experiences, such as technological, political, economic, and social changes, influence people’s opinions and personalities. Studying people in generational groups is significant because an individual’s age is a conventional predictor for understanding cultural and political gaps within the U.S. population.Though there is no exact equation to determine generational cutoff points, it is understood that we designate generational spans based on a 15- to 20-year gap. The only generational period officially designated by the U.S. Census Bureau is based on the surge of births after World War II in 1946 and a significant decline in birth rates after 1964 (Baby Boomers). From that point, generational gaps have been determined by significant political, economic, and social changes that define one’s formative years (for example, Generation Z is considered to be marked by children who were directly affected by the al Qaeda attacks of September 11, 2001).In this map layer, we visualize six active generations in the U.S., each marked by significant changes in American history:The Greatest Generation (born 1901-1924): Tom Brokaw’s 1998 book, The Greatest Generation, coined the term ‘the Greatest Generation” to describe Americans who lived through the Great Depression and later fought in WWII. This generation had significant job and education opportunities as the war ended and the postwar economic booms impacted America.The Silent Generation (born 1925-1945): The title “Silent Generation” originated from a 1951 essay published in Time magazine that proposed the idea that people born during this period were more cautious than their parents. Conflict from the Cold War and the potential for nuclear war led to widespread levels of discomfort and uncertainty throughout the generation.Baby Boomers (born 1946-1964): Baby Boomers were named after a significant increase in births after World War II. During this 20-year span, life was dramatically different for those born at the beginning of the generation than those born at the tail end of the generation. The first 10 years of Baby Boomers (Baby Boomers I) grew up in an era defined by the civil rights movement and the Vietnam War, in which a lot of this generation either fought in or protested against the war. Baby Boomers I tended to have great economic opportunities and were optimistic about the future of America. In contrast, the last 10 years of Baby Boomers (Baby Boomers II) had fewer job opportunities and available housing than their Boomer I counterparts. The effects of the Vietnam War and the Watergate scandal led a lot of second-wave boomers to lose trust in the American government. Generation X (born 1965-1980): The label “Generation X” comes from Douglas Coupland’s 1991 book, Generation X: Tales for An Accelerated Culture. This generation was notoriously exposed to more hands-off parenting, out-of-home childcare, and higher rates of divorce than other generations. As a result, many Gen X parents today are concerned about avoiding broken homes with their own kids.Millennials (born 1981-1998): During the adolescence of Millennials, America underwent a technological revolution with the emergence of the internet. Because of this, Millennials are generally characterized by older generations to be technologically savvy.Generation Z (born 1999-2016): Generation Z or “Zoomers” represent a generation raised on the internet and social media. Gen Z makes up the most ethnically diverse and largest generation in American history. Like Millennials, Gen Z is recognized by older generations to be very familiar with and/or addicted to technology.Questions to ask when you look at this mapDo you notice any trends with the predominant generations located in big cities? Suburbs? Rural areas?Where do you see big clusters of the same generation living in the same area?Which areas do you see the most diversity in generations?Look on the map for where you, your parents, aunts, uncles, and grandparents live. Do they live in areas where their generation is the most predominant?

The homeownership rate in the United States amounted to nearly ** percent in the third quarter of 2024. While there are many factors that affect people’s decision to buy a house, the recent decrease can be attributed to the higher mortgage interest rates, which make taking out a mortgage less affordable for potential buyers, especially considering the surge in house prices in recent years. Which factors affect homeownership? Age and ethnicity have a strong correlation with homeownership. Baby boomers, for example, are twice as likely to own their home than Millennials. Also, the homeownership rate among white Americans is substantially higher than among any other ethnicity. How does the U.S. homeownership rate compare with other countries? Having a home is an integral part of the “American Dream”. Compared with selected European countries, the U.S. ranks alongside the United Kingdom, Cyprus, and Ireland. Many countries in Europe, however, exceed ** percent homeownership rate.

Following a period of stagnation over most of the 2010s, the number of owner occupied housing units in the United States started to grow in 2017. In 2023, there were over 86 million owner-occupied homes. Owner-occupied housing is where the person who owns a property – either outright or through a mortgage – also resides in the property. Excluded are therefore rental properties, employer-provided housing and social housing. Homeownership sentiment in the U.S. Though homeownership is still a cornerstone of the American dream, an increasing share of people see themselves as lifelong renters. Millennials have been notoriously late to enter the housing market, with one in four reporting that they would probably continue to always rent in the future, a 2022 survey found. In 2017, just five years before that, this share stood at about 13 percent. How many renter households are there? Renter households are roughly half as few as owner-occupied households in the U.S. In 2023, the number of renter occupied housing units amounted to almost 45 million. Climbing on the property ladder for renters is not always easy, as it requires prospective homebuyers to save up for a down payment and qualify for a mortgage. In many metros, the median household income is insufficient to qualify for the median-priced home.

Residential Real Estate Market Outlook

The global residential real estate market size was valued at approximately $9.7 trillion in 2023 and is projected to reach an astounding $15.4 trillion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.2%. This growth is driven by several factors, including increasing urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and the ongoing global shift towards homeownership as a stable investment. Demographic shifts, such as the growing number of nuclear families and millennials entering the housing market, also contribute significantly to this upward trend.

One of the primary growth factors for the residential real estate market is the increasing urbanization across the globe. As more people migrate to urban areas in search of better job opportunities and a higher standard of living, the demand for residential properties in cities continues to rise. This trend is particularly pronounced in developing countries, where rapid economic growth is accompanied by significant rural-to-urban migration. Additionally, the trend of urban redevelopment and the creation of smart cities are further fueling the demand for modern residential properties.

Another crucial growth factor is the rise in disposable incomes and improved access to financing options. With strong economic growth in many parts of the world, individual incomes have been rising, allowing more people to afford homeownership. Financial institutions are also playing a critical role by offering a variety of mortgage products with attractive interest rates and flexible repayment terms. This increased access to capital has enabled a broader section of the population to invest in residential real estate, thereby expanding the market.

Technological advancements and the digital transformation of the real estate sector are also contributing to market growth. The proliferation of online platforms and real estate technology (proptech) solutions has made the process of buying, selling, and renting properties more efficient and transparent. Virtual tours, online mortgage applications, and blockchain for property transactions are some of the innovations revolutionizing the industry. These technological advancements not only improve the customer experience but also attract tech-savvy millennials and Gen Z buyers.

Regionally, the Asia-Pacific region is experiencing significant growth in the residential real estate market. Countries like China and India, with their large populations and rapid urbanization, are at the forefront of this expansion. Government initiatives aimed at providing affordable housing and improving infrastructure are also playing a pivotal role. In contrast, mature markets like North America and Europe are witnessing steady growth driven by economic stability and continued investment in housing. Meanwhile, regions like Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are also showing promise, albeit at a slower pace, due to varying economic conditions and market maturity levels.

Property Type Analysis

The residential real estate market is segmented by property type, including single-family homes, multi-family homes, condominiums, townhouses, and others. Single-family homes are the most traditional and widespread type of residential property. They are particularly popular in suburban areas where space is more abundant. The demand for single-family homes continues to be driven by the desire for privacy, larger living spaces, and the ability to customize the property. These homes appeal especially to families with children and those looking to invest in a long-term residence.

Multi-family homes, which include duplexes, triplexes, and apartment buildings, are gaining traction, particularly in urban settings. These properties are attractive due to their potential for generating rental income and their ability to house multiple tenants. Investors find multi-family homes appealing as they offer a higher return on investment (ROI) compared to single-family homes. Additionally, the increasing trend of co-living and shared housing arrangements has bolstered the demand for multi-family properties in cities.

Condominiums, or condos, are another significant segment within the residential real estate market. Condos are particularly popular in urban areas where land is scarce and expensive. They offer a balance between affordability and amenities, making them an attractive option for young professionals and small families. Condominiums often come with added benefits such as maintenance services, security, and shared facilities like gyms and swimmin

In a September 2020 survey among adults in the United States, 33 percent of Millennials said that they were currently saving up to buy a house, as compared to 10 percent of Baby Boomers. While just seven percent of GenZers said that they never plan or expect to own a home, three in five Baby Boomers said so (61 percent).In the United States, the 2020 homeownership rate reached 65.8 percent.

The US residential real estate market, a significant component of the global market, is characterized by a moderate but steady growth trajectory. With a projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 2.04% from 2025 to 2033, the market demonstrates resilience despite fluctuating economic conditions. The 2025 market size, while not explicitly provided, can be reasonably estimated based on available data and considering recent market trends. Assuming a continuation of the observed growth pattern in preceding years, a substantial market value in the trillions is plausible. Key drivers include sustained population growth, particularly in urban areas, increasing household formations among millennials and Gen Z, and ongoing demand for both rental properties (apartments and condominiums) and owner-occupied homes (landed houses and villas). However, challenges persist, including rising interest rates which impact affordability, supply chain constraints affecting new construction, and the potential for macroeconomic shifts to influence buyer confidence. Segmentation analysis highlights the varying performance across property types, with apartments and condominiums potentially experiencing higher demand in urban centers while landed houses and villas appeal to a different demographic profile and geographic distribution. The competitive landscape includes a mix of large publicly traded real estate investment trusts (REITs) like AvalonBay Communities and Equity Residential, regional developers like Mill Creek Residential, and established brokerage firms such as RE/MAX and Keller Williams Realty Inc., all vying for market share within distinct segments. The geographical distribution of the market shows significant concentration within North America, particularly in the US, reflecting established infrastructure, economic stability, and favorable regulatory environments. While other regions like Europe and Asia-Pacific contribute to the global market, the US continues to be a dominant force. The forecast period (2025-2033) suggests continued expansion, albeit at a moderate pace, indicating a relatively stable and mature market that remains attractive for investment and development. Future growth hinges upon addressing affordability concerns, navigating fluctuating interest rates, and managing supply-demand dynamics to ensure sustainable market expansion. Government policies influencing housing affordability and construction regulations will play a crucial role in shaping the future trajectory of the US residential real estate sector. Recent developments include: May 2022: Resource REIT Inc. completed the sale of all of its outstanding shares of common stock to Blackstone Real Estate Income Trust Inc. for USD 14.75 per share in an all-cash deal valued at USD 3.7 billion, including the assumption of the REIT's debt., February 2022: The largest owner of commercial real estate in the world and private equity company Blackstone is growing its portfolio of residential rentals and commercial properties in the United States. The company revealed that it would shell out about USD 6 billion to buy Preferred Apartment Communities, an Atlanta-based real estate investment trust that owns 44 multifamily communities and roughly 12,000 homes in the Southeast, mostly in Atlanta, Nashville, Charlotte, North Carolina, and the Florida cities of Jacksonville, Orlando, and Tampa.. Notable trends are: Existing Home Sales Witnessing Strong Growth.

About ** percent of homebuyers in the United States in 2024 were young Boomers, making them the generation with the largest share of homebuyers in the United States that year. On the hand, generation Z buyers made up only **** percent of homebuyers.

Approximately ** percent of Americans aged 26 to 34 who bought a home were first-home buyers, whereas ** percent of home buyers between 35 and 44 bought their first home in that year. Gen Z and Millennial first-time buyers It is no surprise that many Gen Z (18 to 24 years old) and Millennial (25 to 43 years old) home buyers are mostly first-time home buyers. These home buyers are in the early stages of their careers, or still studying in some cases, and often struggling to repay student debt, so they need to save for many years before they afford a down payment. When do they sell? These generations tend to stay in their first homes for several years, which means that the majority of home sellers are older than them. The share of income needed to afford a trade-up home is significantly lower than the money needed for a starter home. A trade-up home is a larger and more expensive home, which homeowners often buy after living in their starter home, or their first home, for several years. This progression generally happens when homeowners have climbed the career ladder and increased their incomes.

DIY Home Improvement Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global DIY Home Improvement market size reached USD 358.2 billion in 2024, demonstrating robust consumer engagement and an expanding base of home improvement enthusiasts worldwide. The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.7% from 2025 to 2033, reaching an estimated USD 540.5 billion by 2033. This positive trajectory is propelled by rising disposable incomes, increased focus on home aesthetics, and the growing popularity of do-it-yourself culture fueled by digital learning resources and social media platforms. As per our latest research, the sector is experiencing a notable shift in consumer preferences, with a strong inclination toward personalized, sustainable, and technologically advanced home improvement solutions.

One of the primary growth drivers in the DIY Home Improvement market is the increasing trend of home ownership, especially among millennials and Gen Z consumers. These demographic groups are not only investing in their first homes but also showing a keen interest in customizing their living spaces according to personal tastes and functional requirements. The proliferation of online tutorials, DIY blogs, and influencer-driven content has demystified complex home improvement projects, making them more accessible to the average consumer. This democratization of knowledge, coupled with the availability of affordable and user-friendly tools, has empowered homeowners to undertake various projects themselves, significantly boosting the demand for DIY products and solutions.

Another significant factor contributing to market expansion is the rising awareness regarding sustainable living and energy efficiency. Consumers are increasingly opting for eco-friendly materials, energy-saving appliances, and sustainable building practices in their home improvement projects. The integration of smart home technologies, such as automated lighting, security systems, and energy management solutions, is further enhancing the appeal of DIY upgrades. Manufacturers and retailers are responding to these trends by offering a wider range of green products, recyclable materials, and smart tools that cater to environmentally conscious DIYers. This shift towards sustainability not only aligns with global environmental goals but also adds a premium value to home improvement initiatives, driving higher investment in the sector.

The COVID-19 pandemic has also played a pivotal role in reshaping the DIY Home Improvement market. With extended periods spent at home due to lockdowns and remote work arrangements, consumers have redirected discretionary spending towards enhancing their living environments. Home offices, multifunctional spaces, and outdoor living areas have become focal points for improvement projects. This behavioral shift has led to a surge in demand for products related to comfort, productivity, and leisure within the home. Retailers and brands have adapted by expanding their online presence, offering virtual consultations, and providing DIY kits that cater to novice and experienced consumers alike. The momentum gained during the pandemic continues to influence market dynamics, with ongoing demand for innovative and convenient DIY solutions.

From a regional perspective, North America remains the dominant market, accounting for the largest share in 2024, followed closely by Europe and the Asia Pacific. The United States, in particular, is characterized by a mature DIY culture, high home ownership rates, and a strong inclination towards home personalization. Europe exhibits similar trends, with an added emphasis on sustainability and energy efficiency. Meanwhile, the Asia Pacific region is witnessing rapid growth, supported by urbanization, rising incomes, and increasing adoption of Western lifestyles. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are emerging as promising markets, driven by a young population, expanding middle class, and growing access to DIY products through online channels. Each region presents unique opportunities and challenges, shaping the competitive landscape and strategic priorities of market participants.

The majority of home buyers in the United States in 2024 across all age groups purchased a home between 1,501 and 2,500 square feet in size. 32 percent of the young millennials (26 to 34 years old) and 38 percent of the silent generation (79 to 99 years old) purchased a home about the same feet in size.

In a September 2020 survey among adults in the United States, many respondents said that the COVID-19 pandemic did not change their interest in buying a home. Millennials were most likely to have changed their homeownership plans: 28 percent of Millennials were more interested in buying a home due to the COVID-19 pandemic compared with nine percent of Baby Boomers.In the United States, the 2020 homeownership rate reached 65.8 percent.

According to a June 2020 survey, 45 percent of Millennials in the United States wishing to buy a house within the next year expect that they will receive financial assistance from family and friends. Around four in five respondents said that they wanted to move either within their current city (49 percent) or to nearby suburbs (31 percent).Although Millennials have already entered the U.S. housing market, homeownership for this demographic is still much lower than for any other age group in the United States.