The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) is forecasting a robust year for the U.S. housing market in 2026, with both existing-home sales and the median home price expected to climb by 4%. This positive outlook, shared by NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun, suggests continued wealth building for homeowners and a stable economic environment.
Key Takeaways
- Existing-home sales and median home price projected to increase by 4% in 2026.
- Mortgage rates are anticipated to average 6.5% for the year.
- Homeowners are expected to see an approximate $16,000 increase in housing wealth.
- The national unemployment rate is projected to stay below 5%, with job gains around 400,000.
- Long-term forecast indicates the median home price could reach $1 million within 25 years.
Economic Outlook and Homeowner Benefits
Lawrence Yun highlighted that homeowners are set to continue accumulating wealth, contrasting this with renters who may not see similar financial gains. The broader U.S. economy is also expected to remain strong, with the unemployment rate predicted to remain under 5% and job growth reaching approximately 400,000 positions in 2026.
Long-Term Housing Price Projections
Looking beyond the immediate future, Yun presented an optimistic long-term view for the housing market. He forecasts that the national median home price, currently around $430,000, could potentially double to $1 million within the next 25 years. This projection underscores a sustained upward trend in property values over the coming decades.