The average U.S. homeowner is now over 50 years old, according to a new LendingTree study — a reflection, analysts say, of how rising housing costs continue to delay homeownership for younger Americans.
Across the 50 largest metros, the average homeowner age is 50.75, while renters are younger at an average of 44.72. For comparison, the average age of the overall U.S. population is 39.1, the online lending marketplace found.
“For younger homeowners, affordability and job opportunities may be even more important than they are for older homeowners,” said Matt Schulz, LendingTree’s chief consumer finance analyst. “They’re not yet in their prime earning years, probably don’t have amazing credit and could still be struggling with student loan debt.”
Key findings of the study:
- Average homeowner age: 50.75
- Average renter age: 44.72
- Average U.S. population: 39.10
- Median monthly housing costs (with mortgage): $2,229
- Median gross rent: $1,515
Where older homeowners dominate
Eight of the 10 metros with the oldest homeowners are in California or Florida — two states where high costs and climate appeal often go hand in hand.
- Los Angeles: Avg. homeowner age 54.60; median housing costs $3,176
- San Diego: Avg. homeowner age 53.63; median housing costs $3,211
- Miami: Avg. homeowner age 53.38; median housing costs $2,550
Older Americans often value factors beyond affordability, Schulz notes. “Health care options may be more important for older Americans,” he stated. “Giant metros may have more access to the types of specialists and health care services older Americans may need.”
Where younger homeowners still find opportunity
Markets with younger owners tend to be in more affordable regions, particularly the Mountain West, South, and Midwest.
- Salt Lake City: Avg. homeowner age 48.09; median housing costs $2,190
- Austin, Texas: Avg. homeowner age 48.75; median housing costs $2,471
- Oklahoma City: Avg. homeowner age 48.79; median housing costs $1,766
The Midwest, in particular, continues to be a hotspot for first-time buyers. LendingTree points to lower living costs, more affordable homes, and availability of starter houses as major drivers.
“Things like a booming job market, an affordable cost of living, robust entertainment options, low crime rates, easy access to education, and temperate weather are going to make a metro appealing to just about anyone,” Schulz noted.
But the study shows that age — and financial stability — strongly shape which metros people can realistically access. For mortgage professionals, these shifts highlight both the challenges of affordability and the opportunity to target younger buyers in metros where homeownership remains more attainable.
