Housing affordability in California rose to its highest level in four years in early 2026, with 22% of households able to afford a median-priced single-family home due to lower mortgage rates and declining prices. The median home price dropped to $843,390, requiring an income of $204,800. Condo affordability improved, with 32% able to afford a median-priced unit at $648,000. California remains less affordable than the U.S., with significant racial disparities in homeownership access persisting.