White Paper | By Elliot EISENBERG, Ph.D.
Homeownership creates a multitude of benefits at the individual and community levels. Housing plays a crucial role in the economy and in society, functioning as a vital ecosystem of community stability.
I. Homeownership Creates Financial Security: Homeownership brings financial stability and serves as a safeguard against inflation, as mortgage payments typically remain stable, whereas rents often increase alongside inflation.
II. Homeownership Builds Personal and Generational Wealth: Research has shown that homeownership is the leading source of wealth creation in America and continues to improve the economic prosperity of Americans. Between 2019 and 2022, the median net housing wealth in the U.S. increased 44%. Aggregate homeowner equity increased 37% over the last four years.
III. Homeownership Leads to Better Health and Educational Outcomes: Beyond the financial benefits of homeownership, studies have shown that homeownership leads to improved health and educational outcomes.
IV. Homeownership Builds Communities: The development of new housing drives economic growth for local communities, both during development and beyond. Housing and related services account for roughly 16% of the nation’s GDP.
V. Homeownership and the American Identity: Compared to renters, homeowners are more likely to be politically active and participate in elections more frequently. Additionally, homeownership remains popular with Americans, with 78% of Americans saying homeownership is “very important.”
HOMEOWNERSHIP’s
ENDURING VALUE
31.4%
Household Wealth Attributable to Home Equity
+37%
Four-Year Increase in Home Equity
+11%
Low-Income Homeowner vs. Renter High School Graduation Rate
15.9%
Housing’s Share of GDP
+25%
Voter Engagement
78%
Say Homeownership Is Very Important


