Homebuying Costs by State: 2026 vs. 2021

It’s eye-opening to see how much homebuying has changed in just a few years. Since 2021, the salary needed to afford a typical U.S. home has nearly doubled, driven by rising prices and mortgage rates jumping from 2.77% to 7.28%. States like Hawaii and California are feeling the squeeze most, but every local market has its own story. Here in Westcliffe, I’ve watched firsthand as affordability shifts and buyers face new challenges. Having grown up in a real estate family and spent seven years working with neighbors right here, I know how important it is to have someone in your corner who truly understands the landscape. If you ever want to talk about how these national trends play out locally, my line’s always open.