The median age of a first-time homebuyer in the US is now at a record 40 years, up from 33 in 2021 and 29 in 1981

The typical first-time homebuyer in the U.S. is now 40 years old, the oldest median age ever recorded. In comparison, the median was 33 in 2021 and just 29 in 1981. The sharp rise reflects the ongoing housing affordability crisis, where high prices, elevated mortgage rates, and limited inventory are pushing homeownership further out of reach. In addition, inflation, steep rents, and student loan obligations are making it harder for would-be buyers to save enough for a down payment.

According to the National Association of Realtors, 40 is now the highest median age on record for first-time buyers. The jump from 33 in 2021 to 40 today represents an unusually large shift in only a few years, and is a stark contrast to the 29 median age in the early 1980s.

Multiple obstacles are contributing to buyers waiting longer: home prices remain historically high, mortgage rates are still hovering around 6%, and there is a persistent shortage of affordable housing. At the same time, broader economic pressures—such as rising living costs, expensive rent, and lingering student debt—have made it significantly more challenging to accumulate savings.

The consequences are long-lasting: delaying homeownership means losing years of equity growth and wealth building that traditionally start sooner in adulthood.