Wisconsin First-Time Homebuyers Delaying Major Life Decisions

High home prices and mortgage rates make it tough for aspiring homeowners to take the first step

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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First-time homebuyers in Wisconsin are facing an affordability crisis that is causing them to delay major life milestones like marriage and having children as they save up to buy a home. While there are some more affordable markets in the Midwest, Northeast, and South, the Western U.S. remains largely out of reach due to high prices.

Why it matters

Homeownership is a key driver of wealth-building, but the current housing market conditions are making it increasingly difficult for younger Americans to achieve this milestone. Delayed homeownership can have ripple effects on other major life events and the overall economy.

The details

A new report from Realtor.com identifies 10 cities that balance home price affordability, inventory availability, local amenities, and economic health - offering promising opportunities for aspiring homeowners. These include markets in the Northeast, Midwest, and South like Rochester, NY, Harrisburg, PA, and North Little Rock, AR. However, the Western U.S. remains largely absent from the top rankings due to higher prices. A Coldwell Banker survey found that 71% of Gen Z have postponed major life decisions like marriage and having kids to save for a home, with over half not expecting to buy until age 40 or older.

  • In 2025, the median age for first-time home purchases was 35, down from 36 the prior year and 38 in 2018.
  • The National Association of Realtors reported the median age of a first-time homebuyer as 40 in 2025.

The players

Realtor.com

A real estate listing and information website that provides data and analysis on housing market trends.

Coldwell Banker

A major real estate brokerage firm that conducts surveys and research on the housing market.

Redfin

An online real estate brokerage that provides data and insights on the housing market.

National Association of Realtors

The largest trade association for real estate professionals in the United States.

Joel Berner

A senior economist at Realtor.com who provided analysis on the report's findings.

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What they’re saying

“Home buying is expensive and difficult. Choosing where to buy your first home is an essential step toward building wealth and achieving your desired lifestyle.”

— Joel Berner, Senior Economist, Realtor.com (patch.com)

The takeaway

The challenges facing first-time homebuyers in Wisconsin, and across the country, highlight the need for policy solutions to improve housing affordability and access to homeownership, especially for younger generations. As the median age of first-time buyers continues to rise, delayed homeownership could have significant economic and social implications.