• Single women in the US are outpacing men in homebuying, the National Association of Realtors found.
• In 2024, single women represent 20% of all homebuyers, compared to 8% for single men.
• Three single women shared with BI their motivations for buying a home without a partner or a spouse.

Karla Cobreiro, 33, lived with her parents for nearly a decade after college, diligently saving to buy her own home.

"I didn't want to be house-poor or struggle financially," Cobreiro, a publicist, told Business Insider. "I waited for the right moment — when I had a higher-paying job, had saved up a large down payment, and had built a solid emergency fund.

In 2022, she purchased a 900-square-foot condo in Downtown Doral, a Miami suburb, for around $400,000. She was 31 and single.

"I didn't have a partner at the time, but I didn't think that should stop me," Cobreiro said. "So I went for it."

Cobreiro is one of many single women in the US who haven't let the absence of a relationship or marriage stop them from buying a home — an achievement long seen as a key milestone of wealth building and the American dream.

An analysis of data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows that single women have consistently outpaced single men in homebuying since the organization began tracking data in 1981.

The chart below shows that since 2020, the share of single women homebuyers has continued to increase steadily, while the share of single men has declined.

By 2024, the gap has reached its widest, with single women representing 20% of all homebuyers, compared to 8% for single men.

Single women find independence in homeownership

So why are single women statistically more likely to purchase homes than single men?

Brandi Snowden, NAR's director of member and consumer survey research, told BI that it largely comes down to lifestyle choices and women's unique societal roles.

Snowden explained that many single women purchase homes because they desire independence, have experienced divorce, and are responsible for raising children.

NAR found that female buyers are typically older than their male counterparts, with the median age for single women at 60, compared to 58 for single men.

"These buyers may be recently divorced or purchasing a home not just for themselves but also for their children and parents," Snowden said.

"It's just me and this mortgage."

Cobreiro said that buying a home without a spouse has its own challenges, such as settling for a smaller condo since she's not part of a DINK household — an acronym for "dual income, no kids."

Data from the Federal Reserve's Survey of Consumer Finances shows that DINKs have a median net worth of over $200,000. This financial advantage enables them to more easily afford housing or spend their disposable income on luxuries like boats and expensive cars.

Despite the financial benefits of a two-income household, many women have chosen to live independently in an era of increasing financial and social autonomy.

Cobreiro is responsible for a 30-year mortgage, which includes $2,500 in monthly payments and an additional $1,000 in HOA fees — all of which fall entirely on her.

"Though I live comfortably, If I get laid off, break a leg, or face an emergency, I'm on my own, she said. "I always joke to my friends, "It's just me and this mortgage."

Still, she believes the benefits of sole home ownership outweigh the risks of waiting to purchase with a boyfriend.

"I'm glad I didn't wait until I was in a relationship or married to buy a home," she said. "Owning a home with someone you're not committed to can get tricky, especially if you break up. There's no prenup; if you disagree about selling, that can get messy."

Some women say no prenup, no co-owning

New Yorker Jessica Chestler, 33, shares a similar perspective to Cobreiro.

In 2022, Chestler, a real-estate agent with Douglas Elliman and a business owner, purchased a three-bedroom condo in Williamsburg for $3.25 million.

She told BI that she viewed homeownership as an investment in her future, one she wasn't willing to risk with someone she wasn't fully committed to.

"When you're buying a home with someone else, there's obviously a lot more to consider, especially if you're not married," Chestler said. "There's always that uncertainty: What happens if you break up — how do you divide the assets?"

Chestler, who also renovated her home, said the greatest benefit of owning solo is the ability to rely on herself and the freedom to live on her own terms.

"I only had to consider myself," she said. "I didn't have to worry about anyone else's opinion. I loved the apartment, knew my numbers, and was confident I could make it work — That sense of comfort was really important to me."

Women say they don't need a knight in shining armor

Some single women who buy homes may have boyfriends but aren't waiting for a ring to start building wealth through home equity.

Take real-estate agent Ayriel Von Schert, who, in February, purchased a 2,280-square-foot townhouse for $365,000 in Mesa, Arizona, without a cosigner.

Although Von Schert, 30, is in a long-term committed relationship, she wanted to take control of her financial future.

"I think many women feel the same way: Why wait for someone else to help you achieve your goals?" she told BI.

Her decision to buy alone could pay off in the long run. Another unit in Von Schert's complex is on the market for $410,000. If it sells for that price, her home will have appreciated by about $35,000 in one year.

"In a few years, I might sell this place or keep it and rent it out while buying another property," she said. "My long-term goal is to build a real estate portfolio and earn residual income, and I feel like I'm definitely on the right path."

For now, she and her boyfriend are living like roommates, equally splitting the bills for the home, including utilities and the mortgage.

She said it's a win-win situation for both of them.

"I don't think he minds because we no longer have a landlord telling us what we can or can't do," she said.

Are you a single or unmarried woman who purchased a home? Contact this reporter at [email protected].

• Karla Cobreiro, 33, lived with her parents for nearly 10 years to save up enough to buy a home.
• In 2022, she bought her first home in South Florida without the help of a partner or spouse.
• Cobreiro said solo homeownership can be challenging, but she likes not having to compromise.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Karla Cobreiro, a 33-year-old vice president at global PR firm Quinn who purchased a home on her own in 2022.

The National Association of Realtors found that from July 2023 to June 2024, single female buyers made up 20% of all homebuyers, outpacing single male buyers, who made up only 8%.

The interview has been edited for length and clarity.

I'm originally from Cuba. My parents moved to the US when I was four, and I grew up in Miami.

I left at 18 for college, then moved back home after graduation to save money for my future. I'm grateful for that time, and I know many would love the chance to do the same.

Still, I didn't want to live with my parents forever.

Living at home meant sacrificing some privacy. There was commentary about what I was doing, why I was doing it, and how. It wasn't ill-intended, but it could feel like a lot at times.

By my 30s, the decision to move out really came to a head. I asked myself: "Does it make sense to keep living at home to save money, or should I take the leap and buy my own place?"

In the end, I decided to buy a home. I'd never truly lived alone, and I wanted my own space and control over my future. Most importantly, I was ready to start a new chapter.

I didn't have a partner then, but I didn't think that should stop me. So I went for it.

I was financially prepared to buy a home alone

For many immigrants, homeownership is a big part of the American dream. It was never a question of whether I would own a home, but when.

Knowing I'd be doing it all on my own, I approached homeownership with a methodical mindset.

I didn't want to be house-poor or struggle financially. I waited for the right moment — when I had a higher-paying job, had saved up a large down payment, and had built a solid emergency fund.

I lived with my parents for almost 10 years after college to save and set myself up for the expenses of homeownership: a down payment, mortgage, HOA fees, utilities, and insurance.

In November 2022, at 31, I bought a 900-square-foot condo in Downtown Doral, a suburb of Miami, for about $400,000.

Sometimes, I wish I hadn't overthought it or waited so long.

House hunting was a challenging experience

My homebuying journey started during the COVID-19 pandemic, when home prices and mortgage rates were much higher than before. By 2022, the South Florida real-estate market was incredibly hot.

Although I was financially ready, it was a tough time to be a buyer.

I found myself in bidding wars for homes, often walking away because properties were selling for $30,000 or more over the asking price, especially with so many cash offers.

I cried more about real estate than anything else. My twin sister, a real-estate attorney, helped me navigate the process. I would call her, frustrated, asking, "What's going on? This is insane! I didn't realize buying a house would be this hard."

I felt I had done everything right: I graduated from college, got a job, earned a master's degree, paid off my student loans and car, and saved 25% for a down payment. I had an 800 credit score and liquid assets — all on my own, without help from my parents.

I had checked the boxes and followed the appropriate steps in life. But despite all of that, I was met with rejection after rejection from sellers.

For a while, I couldn't see the light at the end of the tunnel and thought I would be stuck in my parents' house forever. But after a year of searching, my offer was finally accepted on the third home I bid on.

My condo is an investment in my future

I live in a one-bedroom, one-bathroom condo with a den, and my HOA fees are about $1,000 a month.

I have a 30-year mortgage with an interest rate of around 5%, and my mortgage payment is about $2,500.

The unit is smaller than if I were a DINK — someone in a dual-income household with no kids — but I think it's the perfect size for me.

The condo has a work-from-home space and enough room to entertain, plus a stunning, unobstructed sunset view.

I renovated everything except the floors, so I now have a brand-new bathroom and kitchen. My dad, who works in construction, helped with the renovations (and is always on speed dial for anything I can't handle myself).

I'm not sure how long I'll stay here, but I hope it's for a while. Maybe one day, I'll find a partner, and we'll buy a home together, and turn this place into an investment property.

I specifically wanted to live in a condo because didn't want to deal with yard work and, as a single woman, I felt it would be safer.

My building has concierge services, security, and a gated garage. The ground floor also has shops, cafés, gyms, and other stores.

When I lived with my parents, I was in a very suburban, family-oriented area where I had to drive everywhere — even just to get to the supermarket. There were no cafés or anything nearby. It wasn't the lifestyle I wanted.

Now, my place is very central, with easy highway access to anywhere I need to go in about 10 minutes. The neighborhood has a downtown vibe, is walkable, and offers plenty to do.

Buying a home alone was the right decision

Owning a home as a single woman is like a roller coaster — there are ups and downs.

Though I live comfortably, If I get laid off, break a leg, or face an emergency, I'm on my own. I always joke to my friends, "It's just me and this mortgage."

Still, I'm glad I didn't wait until I was in a relationship or married to buy a home. Owning a home with someone you're not committed to can get tricky, especially if you break up. There's no prenup and if you disagree about selling, that can get messy.

I enjoy owning alone because I can selfishly make decisions without having to compromise. I get to decorate my home however I like —and have the entire closet to myself.

Looking back, it was the right time for my parents and me to branch off and live our lives — me as a single woman in my 30s, and my parents as empty nesters.

We all have different paces and lifestyles now, but occasionally, I do miss living with them. It was nice hanging out, having my laundry done, or enjoying one of their home-cooked meals.

I love them to pieces, and I'm truly grateful for their support and encouragement.

• Zillow analyzed millions of listings to find key words and phrases being mentioned more.
• It identified five trends it predicts homebuyers will keep clamoring for in 2025.
• Interest in vintage-inspired interiors and electric-vehicle chargers, for example, is booming.

The American home is having an identity crisis.

Many newly constructed homes are smaller, with fewer hallways and shrinking backyards — yet they are significantly more expensive than just a decade ago.

As homebuilding trends evolve, buyers and homeowners are also reimagining what they want from their living spaces.

By analyzing hundreds of home features and design styles from millions of for-sale listings in 2024, Zillow has identified the top emerging home trends for the year ahead.

Zillow found that in response to higher living costs and growing concerns about the climate crisis, buyers will want homes that are eco-friendly, resilient to climate disasters, and equipped with smart home technology.

"Technology has empowered homeowners to live more sustainably and affordably, which is increasingly important to prospective buyers," said Amanda Pendleton, Zillow's home trends expert. She added that homeowners and buyers are simultaneously "looking to the past" to give their homes character, even in "the most high-tech environments."

According to Zillow, here are five home trends to watch in 2025, from solar-powered energy systems to vintage-inspired interiors.

1. Buyers want homes that protect them during natural disasters

The climate crisis is driving a rise in extreme weather events including hurricanes, wildfires, and tornadoes across the US.

The increasing frequency and intensity of these storms have encouraged people to seek homes that offer enhanced safety during natural disasters — that are hurricane-resistant, for example. Homes like that may reduce the risk of costly repairs.

Zillow found that mentions of flood barriers in for-sale listings have increased by 22% since 2023, while references to water catchment systems have risen by 19%. The use of the term seismic retrofitting — the modification of structures to enhance their earthquake resistance — is up 20%. Drought-resistant turf yards also appear in listings 14% more frequently than last year.

2. People want to live in eco-friendly homes

Homebuyers don't just want a house — they want one equipped with smart, eco-friendly technology that helps reduce their carbon footprint.

Zillow found that the fastest-growing sought-after feature this year is whole-home batteries. These systems, often paired with solar panels, store excess energy for use during cloudy days or power outages. Mentions of this feature in for-sale listings have increased by 62% compared to last year.

Buyers are also showing greater interest in electric vehicle (EV) chargers, which have appeared in 34% more Zillow listings compared to 2023, and induction cooktops, up 5% from last year.

3. People are on the hunt for "cozy" homes that offer comfort and solace in stressful times.

Zillow found that as the pandemic-era dip in home prices fades, so too does some buyers' preference for larger living spaces.

In search of greater affordability, many are now gravitating toward cozier homes that may also be more budget-friendly.

As a result, mentions of "cozy" — sometimes a euphemism for "small" — in for-sale listings have increased by 35% compared to last year.

6. Buyers are looking for spa vibes at home.

According to Zillow, as homeowners prioritize mental and physical well-being, "wellness design" is emerging as a major trend in homes.

Data from the company shows that the share of for-sale listings featuring wellness-focused amenities has increased by 16% compared to last year.

One such feature gaining traction with buyers is the wet room, a waterproof space that combines a shower and bathtub into one seamless area, often without a shower curtain or glass divider.

Popular in Europe and Asia for years, Zillow predicts wet rooms may make their way into more American homes.

5. Homebuyers are embracing a vintage aesthetic.

Young homebuyers will reject the minimalist styles favored by older generations and embrace vintage interior designs featuring antique furniture, floral patterns, and tapestries.

Zillow's data highlights a growing interest in nostalgia-driven design, with mentions appearing in 14% more for-sale listings compared to 2023. Similarly, references to "vintage" have increased by 9%. The company also found that bibliophilic decor and home libraries are gaining popularity, with mentions rising by 22% in listings.

It's not just the "I Love Lucy" set that homebuyers want to channel — many will also aim for "The Gilded Age."

Zillow found that mentions of Victorian-era sculleries — hidden back kitchens used for meal prep and entertaining —have increased by 8% in for-sale listings this year compared to last.

• Kenzie Wallace, 27, moved from California to Spain after she graduated from college in 2018.
• She loves the culture, safety, opportunities to travel, and relative affordability.
• She hadn't originally planned to move abroad, but now she doesn't plan to return to the US.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Kenzie Wallace, a 27-year-old from San Diego who moved to Spain in 2018. The conversation has been edited for length and clarity.

I graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara, a year early. I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life, but I knew I wasn't ready to settle down and get a job.

I was thinking about what was next — what would I do for myself?

The most obvious option was a master's teaching credential program. I started doing everything one does for that: preparing for the GRE, volunteering, and working with a professor who was a mentor of mine.

One day, the professor asked me, "Why do you want to do this program?" I don't remember what I said to him, but whatever it was, it wasn't convincing.

He told me, "You've studied Spanish before and are good at it. Why not take those skills, go abroad, and teach English in a Spanish-speaking country while you try to figure out your life?"

I had never thought about moving to Spain until that conversation. After doing some research, about a month later, I found a teaching English program in Madrid and decided, "I'm going to do that."

At first, I thought I would stay in Spain for a year and then return to the US and get a job. But about three days after moving to Madrid, I knew I had finally found my place.

I took a leap of faith moving to Spain

I was 20 — just a week shy of my 21st birthday — when I boarded the plane to Spain in 2018.

I was lucky that my parents supported most of my way through university, so I wasn't coming to Spain with a lot of student loans or debt. I also worked at Starbucks during college and had about $12,000 in savings.

Still, I didn't know anyone and wasn't exactly sure what I was getting myself into.

I moved to the country on an English teaching visa through Spain's language assistant program. The program contracts native English speakers to work in public schools, teaching English immersion classes.

I had applied before arriving in the country, secured a part-time teaching job that earned me about $1,000 a month, and was assigned to a school. For my first two weeks in Madrid, I stayed with a host family

When those two weeks were up, I had to figure out housing on my own.

I had to figure out life in Spain on my own

Eventually, I found an apartment on real-estate website Idealista for €530 ($557) in a shared flat with six other Spanish girls. I was the only one who spoke English.

If it weren't for that first apartment, I would never have felt truly connected to Spain.

Though I made friends — American friends through mutual connections, Facebook groups, and colleagues I worked with at my school — it was my roommates who showed me what Spain was truly like.

You can learn about a country and how to speak its language from a book, but it's not the same as putting yourself out there.

I fell in love with Madrid

After my first year in Madrid, I decided to stay another year, which eventually turned into, "I'm just going to stay for as long as I can."

I realized I had my whole life ahead of me to get a master's or a job, but I wouldn't have this opportunity forever.

Spanish people are really friendly and inviting, and the country's proximity to other European countries makes me feel like the world is at my fingertips.

I liked the person I was becoming in Spain. I felt more independent, resourceful, and stronger. l knew that my future was all up to me, and that I could carve my own path.

It felt incredibly freeing and I wanted to keep moving in that direction.

I made a life for myself in Madrid

I've been working at Business and Language College Spain, or BLC Spain, since May of 2023.

I have working rights now through a partnership visa, so I no longer have to worry about the restrictions of an English teaching visa.

At my job, I work with international students coming to Spain, helping them navigate the things I once had to figure out on my own.

Most students don't know how to find housing, open a bank account, or get a phone number. It's rewarding to guide them through those processes.

I have a Spanish partner. We've been together for four years, and almost a year ago, we bought a two-bedroom apartment in Madrid for €240,000 ($252,295). It's located in the eastern part of the city.

The apartment is 77 square meters (about 829 square feet), which is a big improvement since we previously rented a one-bedroom place. We wanted to be able to have guests and set up an office.

Our apartment isn't extravagant, but it's a great starter home, and we're really happy there.

Our neighborhood is great because even though it's a little outside the city center, it's very well-connected. We're also on a major street with many bars, restaurants, and shops. It's definitely less central than we were before, but we like the neighborhood vibe.

Living in Spain has some downsides

My biggest complaint about Spain is the lack of organization and efficiency.

It's tough when you're trying to renew your visa or worrying that your paperwork won't be processed in time. However, it's been a good growth experience for me.

I've been in Spain for so long that I no longer see everything through fresh, rose-colored glasses.

Inflation is a big problem worldwide, and Madrid is much less affordable now than it was seven years ago.

I do think some of the blame is placed on digital nomads — people who come here with high salaries, which drives up rent prices and affects locals who are on lower Spanish salaries.

While I don't know what the future holds, I still feel like Madrid is a place where expats are welcome.

I don't plan to move back to the US

There are a few major reasons I don't plan on moving back to the States.

One is the sense of safety. In Madrid, violent crime rates are very low. I can walk around at 3 a.m. without worrying about my safety. It's a comforting feeling that I've come to take for granted.

Another major factor is the cost of living.

The lifestyle I envision for my future just feels more feasible in Spain. Not including my partner's half of everything, my cost of living is probably about €750 euros a month ($788).

Spain would be an excellent place to raise a family, which I hope to do one day. Education is much more affordable, with schooling free from the age of three. Healthcare is also public and free.

Overall, I think my quality of life in Spain is much greater than what I've ever experienced in the States.

I miss my family, but we've grown closer since I moved to Spain. Over the past four years, I've made more of an effort to meet up with them. We get together once a year.

I don't feel like I've missed out on living back home. My 20s have been amazing. I finally feel surrounded by people who understand me, share similar values and interests, and have the same vibe.

When I got to Madrid, something just clicked. I wouldn't change any of it at all.

• In 2017, three older women built and moved into a compound near San Antonio.
• Its residents are two sisters and their longtime friend, who liken themselves to the Golden Girls.
• They share meals, split bills, and — most importantly — care for one another as they age.

After Christina Guerra and her sister Michelle Douthitt lost their husbands within months of each other in 2012, they decided to turn their grief into an opportunity for a fresh start.

Together with their longtime friend Muriel Lanford, the women chose an unconventional path: They sold their homes and used the money they made to purchase five acres of land in Fair Oaks Ranch, a small town just 30 minutes north of San Antonio, for $175,000. Their goal was to build a compound where they could grow old together.

"A lot of people gave us strange looks when we talked about our plan," Guerra, a 68-year-old retired agent with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission, told Business Insider. "I guess they thought we would implode."

But despite the doubters, the trio — who liken themselves to the strong-willed, sharp-witted women of the iconic television series "The Golden Girls" — forged ahead with their plans.

They enlisted Felix Ziga, the owner of San Antonio-based Ziga Architecture Studio, to bring the vision to life. Ziga teamed up with his friend Jimmy Sikkink, owner of Triple R Custom Homes, to design and build their one-of-a-kind compound.

In 2017, the trio moved into their compound, which they call Tierra de Dios, or "Land of God." The compound includes a 2,378-square-foot main house, which has a private wing for each sister, and a separate 1,902-square-foot home for Lanford.

The project cost about $1.2 million, including the land purchase, which the women split equally.

However, for these friends — who share meals and split utility bills — the sense of security and community they've gained is truly priceless.

"I used to work in the ER, and we saw countless elderly patients who had fallen at home, only to be found days later because their children couldn't check in. I remember thinking, 'Oh my gosh, I hope that's not going to be me,'" Lanford, a 68-year-old retired nurse, said. "Now, I have peace of mind. If someone doesn't hear from me for a couple of days, I know they'll be asking, 'Are you OK?'"

Take a look inside the compound and read on to see how they make their experiment in communal living work.

The three women took out a mortgage together and used it to build the compound.

Instead of forming an LLC or corporation, the three women opted for a general partnership, making them equal co-owners of the compound.

One of their biggest challenges was convincing the bank to approve a loan with all three names on it.

"You'd think it would be straightforward, but the bankers were confused," Guerra said. "They couldn't wrap their heads around the idea that it was three people, not a couple or an individual."

In the end, the women secured a mortgage for the home. To protect their individual investments, each has a will that outlines how their share of the property will be distributed in the event of their passing.

The women sold their homes to buy land and finance the compound's construction.

Each woman earned at least $200,000 selling their Texas homes, and they used the proceeds to equally split the $175,000 cost of the lot.

The property, formerly a dairy farm, sits in a floodplain, which gave them leverage to negotiate down the original asking price of $195,000.

The trio hired a local architect who understood their vision for communal yet independent living.

The women were committed to supporting a local business owner when selecting an architect and homebuilder for their project.

"We didn't mind paying a little extra if it meant working with a high-quality small business rather than a big-box company," Guerra said.

The Tierra de Dios compound was Ziga's first project of its kind.

Though Ziga had never taken on a project like this before, he had read about communal living and aging in place.

Ziga's wife, Adriana, an interior designer with the studio, said the entire process was an exciting adventure.

The entire project took 12 months to complete, including permitting.

Having so many stakeholders involved meant carefully weighing the pros and cons of each decision and coming to a consensus, Ziga said.

"They had their own meetings, separate from ours, to get on the same page about what they wanted. Then we'd incorporate their decisions into the design," he said.

Ziga likened the process to designing for institutions like churches, where there's often a building committee and multiple voices to consider.

Ziga designed spacious, custom homes tailored to the women's needs.

The total gross square footage of the compound, including garages, porches, and patios, is about 7,954 square feet.

That includes a 12-foot observation tower, which offers stunning views of the area's lush woodland.

Ziga integrated the natural landscape of the property into his design.

Considering the land's natural topography, Ziga positioned the far end of the guest-house home, where Lanford lives, on a nine-foot foundation.

"This served a triple purpose of keeping the finished floor elevation outside the floodplain, keeping everything on one level, and giving Muriel the treehouse vibe she was going for," he said.

The women live in separate sections of the compound.

The main house features an open living, dining, and kitchen area, along with three bedrooms and three bathrooms — one for each sister and a guest room that can be used for caregivers in the future.

Each of the sister's bedrooms has a private patio. The house also has a small front porch, a large rear porch, a laundry room, a mudroom, a craft room, and a two-car garage.

The guest house has two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and an open-plan living, dining, and kitchen space. Lanford wanted an open loft concept, with her bedroom, bathroom, office, and workout area all in one large space.

This part of the compound also has a small front porch, a large rear porch, a laundry room, a mudroom, and a two-car garage.

Each of the women had specific requirements for her individual space.

Lanford, a nature lover, wanted her part of the compound filled with windows so that she could easily connect with the outdoors.

In contrast, Guerra, who is sensitive to light, requested a meditation room and a bedroom with a sliding door outfitted with blackout shades for nighttime.

Meanwhile, Douthitt asked for a doggie door so her pup could come and go freely.

"I think the trickiest part was coordinating the wants and needs of all three of them," Ziga said. "In a traditional custom home with a husband and wife, one person usually defers to the other. But with this project, there were three people to consider."

Each woman's wing also has some of the same features.

Accessibility was a key design theme for the compound, as the women intend to age in place.

The home features minimal steps inside and out and a gently graded walkway between the driveway and front door. Both front porches are level with the main floor.

The homes do not have carpet, and light switches are lower than usual for ease of use. The bedroom closets and the laundry and pantry rooms are spacious enough for wheelchair access.

The bathrooms are also designed with ample space for wheelchairs, and have grab bars and shower benches installed for safe and comfortable bathing.

Communal spaces were just as important to the women as their private ones.

It was crucial for the women to feel connected, but also to have moments of privacy when needed, Ziga said.

"The challenge was creating a design that honored community and personal space," he added.

To achieve this, he designed each bedroom with its own private patio and yard, providing a sense of visual seclusion.

When the women want to come together, they can gather in communal spaces like the "oasis" — an outdoor area of the home where they keep their bird and squirrel feeders — or the shared nature overlook.

The overlook is a two-story outdoor patio located between the two houses.

The large rear porches are connected at the same level, with the first level of the overlook having a covered patio feel and the second level featuring the lookout tower.

The overlook is a favorite spot for the women. There, they enjoy looking for wildlife and watching sunsets and sunrises through the towering oak trees around their home.

Ziga also designed the overlook with accessibility in mind. If mobility becomes a concern as the homeowners age, an exterior lift can be added for easy access to the view.

Each woman plays her own unique role in the home.

Lanford is the master gardener — though Douthitt loves to help — and she's also the handyman of the home, even making minor roof repairs when needed.

"She puts together a maintenance list for everything — like how we maintain our septic tank and soft water system. She handles all of that daily," Douthitt, 62, a volunteer with a human trafficking organization, said.

Lanford also manages the compound's split finances and pays the bills. "I'm a bit of a numbers nerd," she admits.

As the designated bargain hunter, Guerra negotiates and shops around for the best deals for the compound. "I'm the one who argues, debates, and tries to find better prices," she said.

When she's not working with local appraisers to ensure the compound's property taxes don't increase, she occasionally cooks for the women.

The women split the compound's utility and other bills.

Regardless of their individual roles, they split the home's bills evenly.

Each person pays about $30 a month for water, and their electricity bill tops out at $100 per person during the peak months of August and September.

Living with a sibling be difficult, even when you're older.

"I'm the youngest, and living with my oldest sister has had its challenges, but that's family issues," Douthitt said. "The benefits far exceed anything, and I don't feel like it's a sacrifice."

The compound is a designated butterfly sanctuary and a wildlife habitat.

"We are a Monarch butterfly way station," Guerra said. "That wouldn't be the case if we didn't live here, so that's pretty cool."

They also care for other wildlife that visit the compound. Their oasis features bird feeders, squirrel feeders, and tubs of water for the animals.

"Michelle loves to name the creatures that come by to get fed and hydrated, so she knows them all personally," Guerra added.

Guerra, the only one with grandkids, loves having them visit the compound.

"The youngest, who's nine, was especially excited," she said. "He was so proud because he brought four of his best friends for an adventure out here, and they talked about it for days afterward."

The women have enjoyed living together and building a community.

A major factor in the women's decision to pursue communal living was the transformation in their own lives and the changing nature of the neighborhoods they had lived in for decades.

"The old neighborhood I lived in was very close-knit," Lanford, who is divorced, explained. "I had a lot of close friends there, but I was the last person standing. The neighborhood was changing, and what I missed most was my community."

At Tierra de Dios, the women have found the sense of community they were missing, spending time together and supporting each other during times of need.

"It was the ideal situation during COVID," Guerra said. "We cooked together, streamed movies together, and played games together. We didn't really feel the lockdown as much because, for the most part, we enjoyed being here and had each other for company."

• US News & World Report created a list of the best places to live in the US in 2024.
• Factors such as housing affordability, job opportunities, and quality of life determined the list.
• Naples, Florida, tops 2024's list, followed by Boise, Idaho, and Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Deciding where to live isn't always easy.

Some people move multiple times in a decade, searching for new experiences or better opportunities. Others end up regretting relocating to their new homes.

While everyone's circumstances are unique, data can help narrow down the choices.

Every year, US News & World Report ranks 150 big cities based on factors including quality of life, schools, crime rates, employment opportunities, and housing affordability to find the best places to live in the United States.

For 2024's list, the South and the Midwest have the most cities ranked in the top 15.

Booming Boise, Idaho; outdoorsy Colorado Springs, Colorado; and the bustling banking hub of Charlotte, North Carolina, all consistently make the list of the best places to live. Newcomers include Austin, a growing tech hub, and two scenic South Carolina locales: Greenville and Charleston.

In addition to weighing job opportunities and housing costs, US News & World Report emphasizes each area's overall standard of living.

Here are the 15 best places to live in the US, according to US News & World Report. Residents find plenty to like about these cities, including relatively affordable homes, plenty of jobs, and lots of ways to spend their free time.

15. Lexington, Kentucky

Population of the metro area: 320,154

Median home price: $331,000

Median monthly rent: $1,600

Median household income: $66,392

Climate Vulnerability Index: 58th percentile (average vulnerability). This index shows areas of the US most likely to face challenges from climate change.

Known for: Home to over 450 horse farms, Lexington is known as the horse capital of the world. While it doesn't have the Kentucky Derby, Keeneland Race Track holds its own horse races twice a year.

14. Madison, Wisconsin

Population of the metro area: 280,305

Median home price: $415,000

Median monthly rent: $1,700

Median household income: $70,484

Climate Vulnerability Index: 6th percentile (lowest vulnerability)

Known for: Wisconsin's capital is also the state's second-largest city. Madison is a college town, offering plenty of chances to see concerts and sporting events.

13. Charleston, South Carolina

Population of the metro area: 155,369

Median home price: $617,500

Median monthly rent: $2,800

Median household income: $89,083

Climate Vulnerability Index: 55th percentile (average vulnerability)

Known for: With its cobblestone streets and 18th- and 19th-century buildings, Charleston is a dream for historic-architecture buffs. Plus, miles of beachy coastline are just a short trip from downtown.

12. Green Bay, Wisconsin

Population of the metro area: 105,744

Median home price: $318,000

Median monthly rent: $999

Median household income: $66,950

Climate Vulnerability Index: 15th percentile (lowest vulnerability)

Known for: Wisconsin's oldest city is home to the Green Bay Packers, a storied NFL team. Nature lovers can make the most of Green Bay's 25-mile Fox River State Trail, even in the winter.

11. Sarasota, Florida

Population of the metro area: 57,602

Median home price: $488,500

Median monthly rent: $2,800

Median household income: $68,870

Climate Vulnerability Index: 24th percentile (lower vulnerability)

Known for: Sarasota earned the nickname the Circus City because Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus moved its winter quarters to the beachy town in 1927. These days, the weather, leisurely pace of life, and lack of income tax all attract people to Florida. Sarasota, in particular, has become a magnet for workers, according to a January LinkedIn report.

10. Boulder, Colorado

Population of metro area: 105,898

Median home price: $945,000

Median monthly rent: $2,995

Median household income: $75,923

Climate Vulnerability Index: 12th percentile (lowest vulnerability)

Known for: Not far from the Rocky Mountains, Boulder is known for outdoorsy activities, including rock climbing, hiking, skiing, and cycling. The city's median age is 28.6, giving it a youthful, lively energy.

9. Austin

Population of metro area: 979,882

Median home price: $484,900

Median monthly rent: $2,000

Median household income: $91,501

Climate Vulnerability Index: 20th percentile (lower vulnerability)

Known for: An artsy, contemporary city, Austin is known for its vibrant nightlife, live music, eclectic cuisine, and college scene. It also has a long history of attracting tech giants, and even more companies have opened offices there since the pandemic. West Coasters in the industry have moved to the city, lured by the booming job market and comparatively low cost of living.

8. Virginia Beach, Virginia

Population of metro area: 453,649

Median home price: $384,500

Median monthly rent: $2,195

Median household income: $91,141

Climate Vulnerability Index: 18th percentile (lowest vulnerability)

Known for: Boasting a beloved boardwalk, Virginia Beach has miles of beaches, delectable seafood, and a mild climate. Murals, museums, and shops in the ViBe Creative District give the seaside destination some arty flair, too.

7. Huntsville, Alabama

Population of metro area: 225,564

Median home price: $315,000

Median monthly rent: $1,465

Median household income: $73,319

Climate Vulnerability Index: 54th percentile (average vulnerability)

Known for: Since the start of the US space program in the 1950s Huntsville has been a hub for the aerospace and defense industries. Today it's bursting with startups, alongside long-standing workplaces like NASA and Boeing. Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin also has a facility for building rocket engines in Huntsville.

6. Raleigh, North Carolina

Population of metro area: 482,295

Median home price: $450,000

Median monthly rent: $1,826

Median household income: $86,309

Climate Vulnerability Index: 13th percentile (lowest vulnerability)

Known for: This capital city has a busy downtown, free museums, and miles of hiking trails. Part of North Carolina's Research Triangle, Raleigh has a long history of fostering technology and science companies, creating a strong local economy.

5. Charlotte, North Carolina

Population of the metro area: 911,311

Median home price: $424,900

Median monthly rent: $1,950

Median household income: $80,581

Climate Vulnerability Index: 35th percentile (lower vulnerability)

Known for: Second only to New York, Charlotte is a bustling banking hub. Locals can root for the city's professional basketball, football, and soccer teams or soak up the art and food scenes.

4. Greenville, South Carolina

Population of the metro area: 72,824

Median home price: $366,500

Median monthly rent: $1,725

Median household income: $73,536

Climate Vulnerability Index: 55th percentile (average vulnerability)

Known for: In the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Greenville attracts new residents with its moderate climate, burgeoning food reputation, and natural beauty. Greenville is also home to several major corporations, including Michelin, GE, and Lockheed Martin.

3. Colorado Springs, Colorado

Population of the metro area: 488,664

Median home price: $440,000

Median monthly rent: $1,873

Median household income: $83,215

Climate Vulnerability Index: 34th percentile (average vulnerability)

Known for: The US Olympic and Paralympic Training Center is located in Colorado Springs, making the city especially attractive to athletes. There are hundreds of miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking, and white water rafting is a popular summer activity. From the Garden of the Gods to the iconic Pikes Peak, gorgeous natural sights adorn the area.

2. Boise, Idaho

Population of the metro area: 235,421

Median home price: $472,500

Median monthly rent: $1,774

Median household income: $79,977

Climate Vulnerability Index: 9th percentile (lowest vulnerability)

Known for: Thousands of new residents flocked to Idaho's capital in the past decade, making it the US's fastest-growing city in 2018. Boise blends sought-after amenities such as microbreweries and cider houses with nearby scenic state parks full of rivers, canyons, and mountains.

1. Naples, Florida

Population of the metro area: 19,704

Median home price: $629,500

Median monthly rent: $6,100

Median household income: $135,657

Climate Vulnerability Index: 32nd percentile (lower vulnerability)

Known for: Located on Florida's Gulf Coast, Naples is like a postcard come to life, with white-sand beaches, luxurious residences, and over 1,350 holes of golf. The city has long attracted wealthy residents who can afford the high housing costs. Right now a $295 million compound is up for grabs, the most expensive home for sale in the US.

Sources: Population and income data are from the US Census, median home price from Realtor.com, median rent from Zillow, and climate information from the Climate Vulnerability Index.

This story was originally published on May 15, 2024, and most recently updated on December 4.

• 29 countries offer residence visas for remote workers, or "digital nomad visas."
• Spain and Italy have joined the growing list of countries offering digital nomad visa programs.
• Governments hope the visas will help develop more sustainable tourist economies.

In the lead-up to the election, Business Insider reported millions of Americans were considering leaving the country if former President Donald Trump won his 2024 campaign. After his victory was announced, searches for the phrase "moving to Canada" spiked — along with inquiries about international digital nomad visas.

The specialized visas allow remote workers to live and work in countries like Malta, Portugal, and Costa Rica — as long as their income comes from outside the country.

And as some American tourists consider moving abroad, dozens of countries have, in recent years, launched special visas designed specifically for remote workers to drive tourism in their countries.

In some countries, the visas have become so popular that they've had to start turning people away. As of October 2024, for example, Cyprus is no longer accepting digital nomads after it filled the 500 slots it had available for its visa program.

Nonetheless, there are still plenty of options elsewhere. Here are 29 countries that offer visas specifically for remote workers, the minimum income required to apply, and how much they cost.

Europe digital nomad visas

Malta

Malta, an island south of Italy, has a permit that allows nomads to keep their jobs elsewhere and legally stay in the country for one year with a chance of renewal.

To be eligible, you must be from a country outside the EU and EEA and have a minimum gross annual income of 42,000 euros. The Nomad Residence Permit requires applicants to have health insurance, hold a valid travel document, have a rental or purchase agreement, and pass a background check. There is no application deadline, but there is a 300-euro application fee.

Latvia

Latvia introduced its digital nomad visa in February 2022, allowing applicants to spend up to a year in the country with the opportunity to renew for another.

Digital nomads must either work for a company based in a member state of the OSCE (Organization for Security and Co-Operation in Europe) or a company registered in one of those countries for at least six months.

They must also have health insurance and make at least 2.5 times the country's average monthly salary of the previous year, which the government website reports is about $4,043 (€3,843). There's also a $63 (€60) state fee for the visa application.

Romania

To apply for Romania's digital nomad visa, digital nomads must show proof they can work remotely, either as freelancers, business owners, or employees of a company registered outside the country.

Applicants are also required to have a clean criminal record, medical insurance for the duration of the visa with a minimum liability of $31,580 (€30,000), make at least three times the average gross monthly salary in Romania, around $3,467 (€3,300), and pay an application fee of $126 (€120).

Hungary

Known as the White Card, the digital nomad visa in Hungary requires applicants to be employed by a company outside the country, have shares in a company outside the country, or work as a freelancer.

In addition to providing proof of health insurance and proof of accommodation, those keen on getting a White Card must earn at least $3,146 (€3,000) a month. Application fees can cost as much as $297 (€284).

Croatia

Croatia allows non-EU citizens to apply for its digital nomad visa program, which grants up to one year of residency for remote workers.

The program also allows residency for close family members of the visa applicant so long as the family meets the country's income requirements. To be eligible, applicants must make a minimum of 2,870 euros a month (or $3,035) or have a minimum of 34,440 euros (or $36,430) already available in their account.

Iceland

In Iceland, a long-term visa for remote work can grant you 90 to 180 days while working. The program requires that you are from a country outside the EU and EEA and also from a country that does not need a visa to travel to the Schengen area (US citizens can travel to Iceland without a visa).

Applicants must also have a monthly income of 1,000,000 Icelandic króna (or $7,156) or 1,300,000 Icelandic króna if they bring a spouse.

Greece

Greece started its Digital Nomad Visa in 2021 and is still operating today. The program lets non-EU digital nomads, with a 3,500-euro monthly income, stay for 12 months.

The application fee is refundable at 75 euros, and there's also an administration fee of about 150 euros.

Portugal

Portugal has been kind to digital nomads. With its "Temporary Residence Visa for the Exercise of Professional Activity Provided Remotely Outside the National Territory," or D8 visa, launched in 2022, non-EU nomads can still freely work there.

Applicants must be over 18 years old, prove income over 3,280 euros a month, and show proof of accommodation for at least 12 months. The application fee ranges from 75 to 90 euros.

Estonia

Estonia launched its Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) program in 2020, offering up to a year of residency for eligible workers looking to live in the Northern European country bordering the Baltic Sea and Gulf of Finland.

Eligible remote workers must prove they earn at least 3,504 euros a month (or $3,706) and apply in person at their nearest Estonian Embassy or Consulate. Application fees range between 80 and 100 euros ($84 and $105).

Spain

Spain's Digital Nomad Visa Program allows remote workers, their spouse or unmarried partner, and dependent children to reside in the country for one year.

Applicants must have an undergraduate or postgraduate degree from a "University, College, or Business School of prestige" or have at least 3 years of work experience in their current field, in addition to earning at least 200% of the monthly Spanish national minimum wage — currently set at 37.8 euros/day ($39) or 1,134 euros/month ($1,199).

Italy

Italy's Digital Nomad Visa is available to non-EU citizens who are highly specialized workers with careers that require post-secondary degrees or at least three years of professional training or experience.

The visa lasts up to one year for the applicant, their spouse, and dependent children. To be eligible, the applicant must prove that their salary is at least three times the annual minimum wage of 24,789 euros (or $26,221) and that they have at least 30,000 euros (or $50,000) worth of medical insurance coverage.

Asia and Africa digital nomad visas

Bali, Indonesia

In April, Bali introduced a Remote Worker Visa (E33G), which allows digital nomads to work from Bali for a year. Foreign workers in Bali must be employed by a company outside Indonesia and receive a yearly income of at least $60,000.

The application fee for a standard single-entry visa costs 12,900,000 Indonesian rupiah, or about $810.

Thailand

The Destination Thailand Visa allows digital nomads to stay in Thailand for up to 180 days per visit, on a multiple-entry basis, within five years. The visa fee costs 10,000 Thai baht, or $284.

Applicants must be at least 20 years old and have at least THB 500,000, or about $14,400 USD, in their bank. Employed workers are required to have a foreign employment contract, while freelancers need a professional portfolio.

Japan

Japan introduced a new digital nomad visa in April. This visa allows holders to work remotely in the country for up to six months. Visa holders must be nationals or citizens of selected regions, including the US and UK.

Applicants must have an annual income of at least 10,000,000 Japanese yen, or $65,000, and submit their applications in person or by mail to the nearest embassy or consulate general of Japan. A single-entry visa costs $22, while a multiple-entry visa costs $43, but some countries, including the US, are exempt from this fee.

United Arab Emirates

UAE's virtual work residence visa allows holders to live and work remotely in the UAE — including Dubai and Abu Dhabi — for up to a year. Applicants must make at least $3,500 a month and have sufficient health insurance coverage within the country.

The service fee to apply for the visa is 300 United Arab Emirates Dirhams, or about $80.

Cabo Verde

Cabo Verde's Remote Working Program allows remote workers to stay for up to 6 months, with the option of renewal after. Individual applicants must have an average bank balance of 1,500 euros, or $1,570, in the past 6 months.

The visa fee costs 20 euros, and applicants must submit an online form to indicate their interest.

South Africa

South Africa recently launched a remote work visa, which allows holders to stay for at least 3 months and up to 3 years. While details are still being finalized, the latest visa requirements state that applicants must have a salary of at least 650,796 South African Rand, or about $36,000, and a valid foreign-based employment contract.

Caribbean digital nomad visas

Grenada

To receive a digital nomad visa from Grenada, you need a valid passport, an annual income of at least EC$100,000 a year, or about $37,000, full COVID-19 vaccination, and valid health insurance.

There is no application deadline. The fee is $1,500 for individuals, $2,000 for a family of four, and $200 for each additional dependent.

St. Lucia

St. Lucia's Digital Nomad Visa program, "Don't Just Visit, Live It," has no income threshold. The one-year visa is available to remote workers, freelancers, and students.

The application fee costs $125 XCD (about $47) for a single-entry visa or $190 XCD (about $70) for a multiple-entry visa.

Curaçao

Curaçao's Digital Nomad Visa, the At Home in Curaçao program, has no salary requirements. Still, you must be employed, own a business, or have freelance clients outside the country.

Health insurance, a clean criminal record, and proof of accommodation or a lease on the island are also required. The visa application fee is about $294.

Dominica

To qualify for Dominica's Digital Nomad Visa, the Work in Nature (WIN) Program, you must be 18 years old and have a clean criminal record.

You will also need an income of at least $50,000 or have sufficient funds to support yourself and any family members accompanying you during a 12-month stay.

The application fee is $100. The individual visa costs $800, and the primary applicant can also apply for their spouse and dependents for a total fee of $1,200.

Anguilla

The digital nomad visa in Anguilla has no income requirements, but interested travelers must fill out an application at least 7 days before arrival.

Digital nomads also need proof of a negative COVID-19 test 3 to 5 days before they step foot on the island and proof of a health insurance policy covering COVID-19 complications.

Antigua and Barbuda

To nab Antigua and Barbuda's two-year visa through the Nomad Digital Residency Programme, applicants must be 18 or older, earn at least $50,000 a year, and have a clean criminal record.

Their employer must be outside Antigua and Barbuda as well. Application fees range from $1,500 for a single person to $3,000 for a family of three, plus another $650 for each additional dependent.

Barbados

Introduced in June 2020, the Barbados 12-Month Welcome Stamp offers a one-year visa for digital nomads interested in the island and the opportunity to renew.

Applicants must make at least $50,000. Fees are $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a family bundle and must be paid within 28 days of application approval.

North, Central, and South America digital nomad visas

Bermuda

The Work from Bermuda certificate was created for "remote workers, self-employed digital nomads and university students engaged in remote learning," according to the program's web page. It lasts for 12 months and is renewable on a case-by-case basis.

The application fee is $275, and interested applicants must be at least 18 years old, have a clean criminal record, and have valid health insurance.

There is no official salary requirement, but applicants must demonstrate that they "have substantial means" or a "continuous source of income," though no official range is provided.

Colombia

Colombia's "Visa V Digital Nomads" program allows expats from more than 100 countries to live and work remotely in the tropical country for up to two years. Applicants must make a minimum income of three times the current legal monthly minimum wage in Colombia, which currently equals about $885 a month.

The application costs $54, and if approved, the Visa itself costs another $177. People hoping to become digital nomads in Colombia must also provide a contract or employment letter detailing their employment agreement and compensation details. Entrepreneurs may alternatively submit a letter outlining their business project and financial resources.

Belize

Belize offers citizens of the European Union, the United Kindom, the United States, and Canada the chance to live and work in the country via its "Work Where You Vacation" program. Applicants can secure a six-month visa by proving they make a minimum annual income of $75,000 or $100,000 if applying with dependants. Kids under 18 are eligible to enroll in the country's school system.

Applicants must submit a notarized banking reference, a police record, and proof of travel insurance. The visa costs $500 per adult and $200 per child.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica's digital nomad program extends the country's 90-day tourist visa to a full year with the option to renew for an additional year. Applicants must be foreign nationals who earn a minimum of $3,000 a month or $4,000 a month if applying with dependants.

All application materials must be submitted in Spanish. The application costs $100, while the visa is an additional $90.

Brazil

Brazil's digital nomad visa (VITEM XIV) allows foreign nationals from more than 100 countries to work remotely in the South American country for one year and to renew for longer.

The visa is available to remote workers who can prove a monthly minimum income of $1,500 or an available bank balance of at least $18,000. Applicants must submit a background check, a copy of their birth certificate, proof of valid health insurance in Brazil, and documents proving digital nomad status.

The visa costs $290 for US applicants and between $100 and $215 for UK applicants. Expats from all other countries will pay $100 for the visa.

• Buying a home in America today is no walk in the park.
• Buyers have higher mortgage rates and larger down payments.
• Nine charts capture how homebuying has become a larger challenge over the years.

Feel like buying a home is tougher than ever? You're not the only one.

Homebuyers are older than ever, make more money, and are less likely to have young children at home, based on historical data on homebuyers from the National Association of Realtors, or NAR.

These trends have largely resulted from declining housing affordability over the past several decades, Brandi Snowden, NAR's director of member and consumer survey research, told Business Insider.

"We're seeing that affordability is becoming increasingly difficult, with higher incomes needed to enter the market," Snowden said. "Buyers are also facing limited inventory, so they often need to search longer to find the right home."

Here are nine charts that show how the state of US homeownership has changed over the last several decades.

Data from the Census Bureau and the Department of Housing and Urban Development showed the median sales price of new houses in the US surged during the pandemic, reaching a peak of $442,600 in the fourth quarter of 2022.

Rising prices have made it more difficult for Americans, especially first-time homebuyers, to break into homeownership, as real median household income growth hasn't kept up.

"We've seen that first-time homebuyers have needed to be wealthier in order to be successful homebuyers, especially with rising home prices and interest rates," Snowden said.

The average 30-year fixed-rate mortgage has generally been rising this fall.

It was 6.84% as of the week ending November 21. While that's lower than a year ago and below the recent nearly 8% peak in October 2023, it's still a relatively high rate.

A higher rate plus more expensive homes leads to bigger monthly mortgage payments.

"A challenge for first-time homebuyers is higher mortgage rates, especially over the last year," Snowden said. "It could be a factor in their delaying a home purchase."

The typical down payment homebuyers put down has also been generally rising since the Great Recession.

The median down payment was 8% in 2009 and 2010. In 2024, though, it's typical for a homebuyer to make an 18% down payment.

Down payments of this size are not unprecedented: The median hit 20% in 1989 and 18% in 2001.

"We see that a large share of homebuyers, especially first-time buyers, rely on gifts or loans from family and friends," Snowden said. "They may also be tapping into stocks, bonds, or even their 401(k) for their down payment."

Snowden said that homebuyers may opt for a larger down payment that can help offset the mortgage interest rate with a lower monthly payment.

The climb in the median household income for people purchasing a home for the first time suggests Americans typically need to make closer to six figures to become homeowners.

In 1984, the typical household made $22,420 a year — or around $66,000 in 2023 dollars —while the typical first-time buyer made nearly $31,000 — or around $91,000 in 2023 dollars. In 2023, the median household income was around $80,600, and first-time homebuyers made $97,000.

Zillow research published earlier this year said people have to make over $106,000, 80% higher than what was needed in January 2020, "to comfortably afford a home."

Median incomes for homebuyers dipped in 2021 in part due to the kinds of areas people were moving to.

"Lower median income may be a reflection of buyers purchasing in more affordable locations such as small towns," a NAR report said, adding, "and an increased share of senior buyers who may be retired."

The share of first-time homebuyers dropped to just 24% in 2024, down from 32% in 2023 and a record 50% in 2010. This marks the lowest percentage since NAR began tracking the data in 1981.

The pullback in homebuying demand has been largely driven by the ongoing affordability crisis, compounded by a shrinking supply of entry-level homes.

There are fewer of these types of homes — typically smaller and more affordable for first-time buyers — on the market than there used to be, and the ones that are for sale are more expensive.

"We're seeing that the most difficult step for successful homebuyers is finding the right property," Snowden said.

In 2024, the median age of first-time buyers was 38, nine years older than in 1981. Meanwhile, the median age of repeat buyers increased from 36 to 61.

Unlike repeat buyers, who tend to be older and have more wealth or home equity, many would-be first-time buyers — often younger people, like Gen Zers and millennials — lack the financial resources needed to purchase a home.

Snowden said that many people are spending money on expensive rents, student loans, credit card bills, and car loans that they would otherwise set aside for a down payment.

As a result, many are postponing their plans to buy. Others may abandon dreams of homeownership altogether.

The share of homebuyers without children under 18 years old in their homes has widened to 73%, 10 percentage points higher than a decade earlier.

People without the financial demands of raising children tend to enjoy greater financial flexibility. Some can save thousands of dollars each year — which could be directed toward a down payment or other homebuying costs.

Married or cohabitating couples without children are often referred to as DINKS — an acronym for "dual income, no kids." Data from the Federal Reserve's Survey of Consumer Finances shows that DINKs typically have a median net worth exceeding $200,000.

In contrast, many households with children experience financial strain, as parents allocate a significant portion of their income to day care, medical bills, and school tuition — expenses that can make saving enough to buy a home more challenging.

In addition to couples who never had kids, many baby boomers and Gen Xers who had kids are now empty nesters and may be looking to downsize.

Since NAR started collecting data, single women homebuyers have outpaced single men homebuyers, but the gap has grown.

Single women made up 20% of all homebuyers in 2024, while the share of single men purchasing homes dropped to just 8%.

Snowden said single women are often drawn to homeownership for several reasons, including independence, divorce, and the responsibility of raising children.

Snowden said that single female buyers are typically older than their single male counterparts, with the median age for single women at 60 compared to 58 for single men. "These buyers could be recently divorced or purchasing a home for more than just themselves, but also for their children and parents," she said.

Jessica Lautz, NAR deputy chief economist and vice president of research, said in a news release that "current homeowners can more easily make housing trades using built-up housing equity for cash purchases or large down payments on dream homes."

First-time homebuyers, meanwhile, tend to have to go through the process of taking out a mortgage, potentially losing their chance on a housing bid to those who have money ready for their next home.

The share of homebuyers who paid in cash climbed from 7% in 2003 to 26% in 2024. Snowden said this data is based on primary residences only, excluding investor properties.

Have you recently bought a home, or are you thinking of buying one next year? Share with these reporters how your housing search has gone at [email protected] and [email protected].

• Jessica Chestler, 33, wanted to buy a home and was financially able to do so without a spouse.
• In 2022, she bought a three-bedroom home in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, for $3.25 million, entirely on her own.
• Chestler said that making all the decisions for her home herself is a double-edged sword.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Jessica Chestler, a 33-year-old real-estate agent with Douglas Elliman, who purchased a home without a cosigner or spouse.

New data from the National Association of Realtors shows that from July 2023 to June 2024, single female buyers made up 20% of all homebuyers, significantly outnumbering single male buyers, who accounted for just 8%.

The interview has been edited for length and clarity.

During my 20s, my love life wasn't a priority. I was focused on building a foundation for my future.

I've been in the real-estate industry since I was 21 years old. It's been a 24/7 job, and I've worked incredibly hard to get where I am today.

I co-own a business with my partner, and we manage a real-estate team that operates between New York and Florida, though I primarily work out of New York.

While we handle transactions across various price points, our team specializes in high-end luxury properties, and we sell anywhere from $150 million to $300 million a year.

New York is one of the most expensive places in the country to buy a home.

People want to live here for many reasons, especially for the lifestyle it offers. It's one of the few places in the world where you can catch a Broadway show, sit at Michelin-star restaurants, or visit a local bodega — all while connecting with people from every background at any time of day.

Affording homeownership here has become increasingly difficult.

I've always recognized New York's value, so early on, I set a goal to buy a home here as soon as possible. I'm fortunate to have made that happen on my own.

I was in the financial position to buy on my own

In 2022, as a single woman, I purchased a three-bedroom condo in Williamsburg for $3.25 million with a 30% down payment. My home has 1,700 square feet of interior space and an additional 1,000 square feet of exterior space.

I saw the purchase as an opportunity to secure a valuable property at a price below its true market value.

Back then, interest rates were very low, and the real-estate market was booming — a very different world. I got a 10-year mortgage at a 2% interest rate, with a monthly payment of about $4,000.

Although I've always worked on commission and never had a traditional salary, I felt comfortable buying at that price. I knew my monthly costs, and I understood my financial situation.

The building I live in is by the waterfront and has a doorman, a variety of amenities, and relatively low monthly maintenance fees.

Most importantly, it has a tax abatement for another 15 years, so I pay just $9 in taxes each month. For most apartments of my size, the taxes are usually much higher — like a four-figure number.

I wanted to live in a place that could accommodate my future family and also serve as a solid investment. I'm confident that if I ever decide to rent or sell my condo, it will offer a strong return.

The value of Williamsburg has gone up exponentially in recent years.

It used to be more of an industrial neighborhood, but it has since been gentrified — for better or worse. Still, home prices in the area are slightly lower than in other parts of Brooklyn and Manhattan.

People like living in Williamsburg because there's a lot of opportunity. It's a bit calmer than Manhattan; you're close to the airports, and there are amazing parks, restaurants, and shops. It also is a large community with a strong neighborhood feel.

Buying a home without a spouse has pros and cons

I worked with a designer from London to completely gut and renovate my condo.

I don't want to share exactly how much I spent, but I worked with an Architectural Digest-level designer and architect, and it took about 18 months to finish.

Not a single thing from the original apartment remains. I updated both the indoor and outdoor spaces and added new floors throughout the home. I also added new bathrooms, updated closets, installed radiant heat, and replaced the AC unit's coverings.

I'm very happy with the results. I designed it with the vision of having a family in the future while also building it out to be my dream home.

I do receive a lot of offers from people who want to buy it in the mail, but unless someone is willing to pay an astronomical price, there's no reason for me to move. Like I said, I bought it with the intention of living here with my future family.

I had the freedom to renovate my home however I wanted

One of the benefits of buying and renovating a home alone was that I only had to consider myself.

I didn't have to worry about anyone else's opinion. I loved the apartment, knew my numbers, and was confident I could make it work — that comfort was really important to me.

When you're buying a home with someone else, there's obviously a lot more to consider, especially if you're not married.

There's always that uncertainty: What if the person you're buying with doesn't like it or wants a different lifestyle? What if they want to live in a different neighborhood? What happens if you break up — how do you divide the assets?

There's a certain trepidation — whether you're a woman or a man — when you're single and unsure about your future, which can make people hesitant to buy a home.

Since they're uncertain how their life might change, many singles choose to rent.

The harder parts of homeownership

The biggest drawback of owning a home alone is that I'm responsible for every decision and everything that could go wrong. As someone who works 24/7, this can be difficult to handle at times.

Looking back on my renovation and now knowing how intense a complete gut job can be, it would have been nice to share the experience with someone I was excited to live with.

I truly love my home; I've built my own equity here, and it's a space I look forward to sharing with someone else someday.

The old script of what is expected of women is very different now.

Like me, many other single women are choosing to buy homes independently, and it's an incredibly empowering achievement.

For those considering buying a home, I think it's important to talk to a real-estate agent to understand the process and ensure it's the right decision for you.

At the very least, it will clarify whether it's a good fit. At best, you'll have a place to call your own.

• Christine Wilder-Abrams began to struggle with the stairs of her two-story house in California.
• She didn't want to leave her home of 35 years, so she built an ADU, or "granny pod," in the yard.
• Her 34-year-old daughter now lives in the main home, which Wilder-Abrams calls a win for them both.

In 2021, Christine Wilder-Abrams started to struggle with the stairs in her two-story home in Oakland, California.

She wasn't ready to give up the home or neighborhood she had lived in for nearly 35 years, so she found a solution: build a one-story accessory dwelling unit, or ADU, in her backyard that she could live in, then ask her daughter to move into the main house.

"I was ready to downsize and have a smaller place to live and take care of," Wilder-Abrams, 72, told Business Insider. "The home is in an urban area, so there are a lot of possibilities for my daughter, too."

ADUs have become a popular alternative to traditional apartments or houses, in part due to their relative affordability and how little land they require.

These smaller units, typically 150 to 1,200 square feet, cost between $100,000 and $300,000 to build on average. However, additional expenses, such as inspections, utility installations, and permitting fees, can add to the cost.

An analysis of Google search data shows growing interest in "granny pods," or small outbuildings where older relatives or family members who need extra support can age in place while maintaining independence and personal space.

Wilder-Abrams, 72, now lives in the 560-square-foot, one-bedroom, one-bathroom tiny home that she financed and built for about $350,000. Meanwhile, her 34-year-old daughter lives in the 2,000-square-foot, three-bedroom, two-bathroom main house with her three-and-a-half-year-old daughter.

The ADU was a win for mom, daughter, and granddaughter

For Wilder-Abrams, building an ADU in her backyard and having her daughter move into the main house was much more affordable than purchasing a new home in Oakland.

Wilder-Abrams said that her family home, purchased in 1987 for about $230,000, is now valued at over $1 million. As of October, the median home sale price in Oakland was $751,455, according to Zillow.

"It's hard for me to believe houses cost that much today," she said. "How can anybody afford it?"

Beyond affordability, ADUs also offer families an added sense of security. They're a practical solution for adult children or aging parents who want to maintain their independence while still having access to support.

Wilder-Abrams said that the new living arrangements have benefited her and her daughter, who was widowed in October 2023, equally.

"I get to live close to my daughter and granddaughter," she said. "It's nice that I'm here for them."

Wilder-Abrams especially loves seeing her granddaughter regularly. "It's great watching her grow up," she added.

The construction process of the ADU

Wilder-Abrams' tiny home was built by Inspired ADUs, an ADU builder operating in Oakland, Orange County, and the greater Bay Area, which she found online.

Inspired ADUs offers over 70 different layouts, ranging from 300-square-foot studios to two-story units exceeding 1,200 square feet. Prices start at $13,800 for pre-designed or custom ADU plans, $215,000 for panelized kits, and up to $314,000 for a full prefabricated unit. The company also manages the permitting process for its clients.

"The permitting process was really easy," Wilder-Abrams said. "The architect said it'll take about three months, and it took three months."

Construction on Wilder-Abrams' ADU began in 2021. By May 2022, her daughter had moved into the main house, and she had settled into the ADU.

To finance the construction of the ADU, Wilder-Abrams took out a second mortgage on her home, as the original mortgage had been paid off years earlier. She now has a monthly mortgage payment of $1,500, which her daughter pays as rent.

Downsizing can be difficult

Wilder-Abrams' ADU has an open floor plan with high ceilings, large windows, and brand-new European appliances, including a refrigerator, dishwasher, stove, oven, and stackable washer and dryer. Her new home also has its own patio and garden.

"My ADU feels very spacious," she said. "Everybody's surprised by how big it is."

Despite the generous size of the ADU, Wilder-Abrams had to part with many belongings, including most of her longtime furniture — such as her couch and dining room table — as well as items that had belonged to her husband and both of their parents.

"Downsizing is hard. You really have to want to do it," she said.

Wilder-Abrams now has an apartment-sized L-shaped sofa, and instead of a dining table, there's a built-in bench in the ADU where she eats.

"I think having less stuff is freeing. There are just fewer things for me to take care of or worry about all the time," she said.

Wilder-Abrams has more security

Swapping homes with her daughter wasn't something Wilder-Abrams had envisioned years ago, but it's turned out to be a surprisingly successful arrangement for both of them.

"I wasn't sure if she would want to return to her childhood home, but she's happy about it," Wilder-Abrams said.

Another benefit is the support she has received as she ages. Last year, Wilder-Abrams had knee surgery, and she said her recovery would have been much more challenging without her daughter nearby.

"The first few days, she stayed with me to change the ice packs regularly," she said. "It was so convenient for both of us."