CBRE: Renter Affordability Falls in 24 of 25 Markets as Premiums Double
A 2026 CBRE review found renter affordability for median-priced homes dropped in 24 of 25 largest U.S. markets and buying premiums over average rents rose, doubling in several areas. Fifty-four percent of baby boomers say they won’t sell their homes, further tightening supply.
1. Affordability Decline in Major Markets
A 2026 review by CBRE shows the share of renters able to afford median-priced homes declined in 24 of the 25 largest U.S. markets compared to 2019, highlighting a widespread drop in entry-level purchasing power.
2. Buying Premiums Surge Through 2025
The analysis also found buying premiums—the extra monthly cost to buy versus rent—increased in nearly all markets between 2019 and 2025, with costs in several cities roughly doubling over that period.
3. Boomer Supply Shortage
Adding to the challenge, 54% of baby boomers report they do not intend to sell their current homes, constraining supply and limiting potential relief from improving mortgage rates in 2026.