Homeowners report greater financial satisfaction
A survey found 68% of homeowners were satisfied with their finances, compared with 47% of nonhomeowners, though many in both groups lived paycheck to paycheck.
Homeowners report greater financial satisfaction than nonhomeowners despite rising housing costs and pressure on household budgets.
A Clever Real Estate survey found that 68% of homeowners are satisfied with their financial situation, compared with 47% of non-homeowners. Financial strain remains common, with 42% of homeowners living paycheck to paycheck versus 61% of non-homeowners. However, homeownership can provide a longer-term advantage through equity and wealth accumulation.
Realtor.com research found that buying a home by age 30 was associated with a 22.5% higher net worth, or about $119,000 more, by age 50 than purchasing in one's 40s.
Still, stretching too far to own a home can limit other financial goals, Realtor.com noted.
"Even at lower levels, such as 30% to 40%, housing costs can crowd out other necessary spending or limit someone's ability to save," said Stephen Kates, principal at Clocktower Financial Consulting.
SOURCE: Realtor.com (09/14/26) Sartore-Bodo, Dina
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