Lower Mortgage Rates Push First-Time Buyer Age to 35

Homebuyers in the U.S. are skewing slightly younger as mortgage rates ease and affordability improves modestly. New data from Redfin show the median age of first-time buyers fell to 35 in 2025, down from 36 in 2024 and below a recent peak of 38 in 2018.

The median age of repeat buyers also declined, dropping to 47 from 52 in the previous year, which had marked a 25-year high.

Gen Z's homeownership rate rose to 27.1% from 26.1% a year earlier, while millennials' rate increased to 55.4% from 54.9%.

For more information, visit smartzonecar.org/newsroom

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REALTORS® Confidence Index

First-time buyers grew, reflecting seasonal strength and slightly improved affordability conditions. A smaller share of buyers waived inspection and appraisal contingencies as homes remained on the market longer, creating a more balanced market in some areas.

https://www.nar.realtor/research-and-statistics/research-reports/realtors-confidence-index