More than half of American renters believe they may never be able to afford a home, according to a new Ipsos iSay survey that highlights growing concerns about housing affordability across the U.S.
The survey found that 63% of women renters and 52% of men feel homeownership is out of reach, driven by rising rents, soaring property prices, and high interest rates. Generational gaps are also significant, with 67% of Baby Boomers reporting doubts about ever owning a home—compared to 48% of Gen Z renters, who remain the most optimistic.
High Rents and Soaring Prices Drive Pessimism
The top concern among renters? Rent itself. 51% of survey respondents say high rental prices are their biggest housing challenge. Close behind, 49% cite high property prices, while 35% worry about property taxes making homeownership even more difficult.
Additional concerns include:
- High interest rates: 34%
- Homelessness: 33%
- Rising construction costs: 23%
- Lack of new housing: 12%
These worries come amid a backdrop of steady home price growth. CoreLogic reports a 3.3% increase in home values from January 2024 to January 2025 and predicts a 3.6% rise by January 2026—further straining affordability for first-time buyers.
Gender and Age Divide in Housing Concerns
Women are more likely than men to feel the burden of housing costs. 53% of women renters say rent is too high, compared to 48% of men. Women also report greater concern about high interest rates (37% vs. 32%) and homelessness (35% vs. 31%).
Generational trends show Baby Boomers feel the most financially locked out of the market, possibly due to fixed incomes and mortgage discrimination based on age. Meanwhile, many younger adults still live with their parents as they navigate student debt and rising housing costs.
Where Rent Is Most Expensive in 2025
According to World Population Review, these states have the highest average rent:
| State | Avg. Monthly Rent |
|---|---|
| Massachusetts | $2,837 |
| New York | $2,739 |
| Hawaii | $2,668 |
| California | $2,587 |
| D.C. | $2,474 |
And here are the most affordable states:
| State | Avg. Monthly Rent |
|---|---|
| Oklahoma | $1,035 |
| North Dakota | $1,077 |
| Arkansas | $1,093 |
| South Dakota | $1,127 |
| Iowa | $1,220 |
34% of renters nationwide say they’re worried about making rent or mortgage payments—especially younger Americans. In contrast, only 18.6% of Baby Boomers express the same concern.
What’s Next for the Housing Market?
The survey underscores a nationwide crisis in housing affordability, with rising costs affecting not just ownership but basic rental stability. With rent, property prices, and taxes continuing to climb, many renters feel trapped in a system where even modest financial goals—like saving for a down payment—seem impossible.
Meanwhile, Ipsos iSay is giving renters a voice in the conversation. The panel allows Americans to participate in surveys that influence public policy, track economic sentiment, and help shape the future of housing.
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