Homeownership costs surge across all categories from 2019 to 2025, squeezing middle-class buyers
By
Holly Van Leuven
Summary
A Wall Street Journal analysis reveals that all major homeownership costs — including mortgage payments, property taxes, insurance, utilities, and maintenance — have risen significantly between 2019 and 2025. These increases have made it harder for middle-class Americans to afford homeownership. For example, a $2,500/month budget in 2019 could have purchased a $517,500 home with 20% down at a 3% interest rate, but the same budget now buys far less. Both current homeowners and aspiring buyers are feeling the financial strain.
Source
bskyHomeownership costs surge across all categories from 2019 to 2025, squeezing middle-class buyersmorningbrew.comKey quotes
· 3 pulledOn the spectrum that runs from gross hyperbole to established fact, the statement 'everything about owning a home is more expensive' currently sits far closer to the latter than it has in a long time.
Those cost increases have made it harder for middle-class Americans to join the ranks of homeowners.
Longtime homeowners and those hoping to join their ranks are both feeling the bite.
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