If you own a home or dream of buying one, you’ve probably noticed home prices have gone up a lot.
Between 2019 and 2023, the median value of owner-occupied homes in the U.S. jumped by 21.7%, according to recent data.
That’s a huge leap compared to 2014–2018. And yes, these numbers account for inflation, so it’s the real deal!
The American Community Survey released five-year estimates on Thursday, showing not just rising home values but also other good news for homeowners.
Homeowners are spending less of their income on housing costs now, with the median share dropping from 18.3% to 17.5%.
At the same time, the number of owner-occupied homes went up by 8.4%.
Here’s a fun fact: Out of 3,144 counties in the U.S., only 15% have a median home value higher than the national median of $303,400.
So, if you’re curious about how your county compares, check out the map below!
Almost every county saw home values rise.
While this is great for current homeowners, it can make buying a home trickier for first-time buyers.
But it’s not all bad news! The drop in housing costs as a share of income means homeownership might still be a smart long-term investment.
The Bottom Line:
Whether you’re a homeowner watching your investment grow or someone saving for your dream house, these numbers show how housing trends are changing.
What does it mean for you? Dive into the map and see where your county stands because knowing is the first step to making smart moves in today’s housing market.