Homebuying affordability in 2026 improved slightly, with households needing an average income of $109,796 to afford a typical U.S. home, down from $110,382 last year. The median household income is $87,599, leaving a $22,197 gap. About 34.2% of listings are affordable, up from 30.5%. Affordability improved in 24 of 46 major metros, with Seattle and San Jose seeing the largest declines in required income. Starter homes require $70,693 on average.