Well, this is depressing. Looks like you’ll have to save for almost a decade to qualify for a mortgage.
Homeownership is one of the best ways to build wealth. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, homeowners’ median net worth is 80 times larger than renters’ median net worth. But for many people, it’s just too hard to own.
To better understand these financial barriers homebuyers across the country face, the real estate website RealtyHop took a look at the years required to save up for the down payment in the top 125 most populous cities in the U.S. Here are the top 5 cities with the biggest and lowest barrier to homeownership:
The 5 Cities with the Biggest Barrier to Homeownership
1. Los Angeles – 13.8 years to qualify for a loan with 20% down.
2. New York, NY – 12.8 years to qualify for a loan with 20% down.
3. Glendale, CA – 12.8 years to qualify for a loan with 20% down.
4. San Francisco, CA – 11.3 years to qualify for a loan with 20% down.
5. Boston, MA – 9.7 years to qualify for a loan with 20% down.
The 5 Cities with the Lowest Barrier to Homeownership
1. Detroit, MI – 1.6 years to qualify for a loan with 20% down.
2. Akron, OH – 2.4 years to qualify for a loan with 20% down.
3. Aurora, IL – 3 years to qualify for a loan with 20% down.
4. Des Moines, IA – 3 years to qualify for a loan with 20% down.
5. Wichita, KS (TIE) – 3.2 years to qualify for a loan with 20% down.
5. Cleveland, OH (TIE) – 3.2 years to qualify for a loan with 20% down.
Maureen Dahill is the editor of Caught in Southie and a lifelong resident of South Boston sometimes mistaken for a yuppie. Co-host of Caught Up, storyteller, lover of red wine and binge watching TV series. Mrs. Peter G. Follow her @MaureenCaught.
