Donut chart showing that Gen Xers renters think renting is more affordable than owning

Donut chart showing that Gen Xers renters think renting is more affordable than owning

Despite rent increases and feeling burdened by finances, seven in ten renters currently feel renting is a more affordable choice than homeownership. Even among those who plan to move towards homeownership, half still see renting as a more affordable option.

These views are similar across the generations: 70% of Millennials, 61% of Gen Xers, and 73% of Baby Boomers think that renting is a more affordable choice.

Survey Says . . .

Freddie Mac commissions Harris Poll to survey U.S. adults online each quarter to get their perceptions about renting. The most recent survey was completed in January and February 2016 among 4,063 of which 1,527 were renters. Age, sex, race/ethnicity, education, region and household income were weighted to bring them into line with their actual proportions in the population.

Affordability is the #1 Reason for Renting

Ability to manage debt is less positive this quarter with more renters admitting occasional difficulties. Similar to what was seen in the October 2015 survey, single family renters are the most likely home buyers, with 52% stating they plan to purchase a home in the next three years, compared to multifamily renters (36%).

Many renters who plan to buy a home in three years still show financial hurdles to overcome:

  • Affording a down payment (36%)
  • Not a good enough credit history (35%)
  • Not making enough money (30%)
  • Carrying too much debt (23%)

Renting is More than a Financial Decision

For those who plan to buy, their reasons for renting now, instead of buying a home, are mostly financial. But many also cite:

  • Allows me to save money (27%)
  • Best option for my lifestyle and/or age (18%)
  • Do not want to worry about home maintenance and repairs (15%)
  • Need flexibility and mobility (13%)

Aside from Cost, Safety is Key When Choosing a Rental

Almost half of all renters whose rent payments rose in the last three years say they like where they live and will stay regardless of rent increases. Aside from cost and affordability, there are many factors associated with choosing a rental property. Among all age groups, these include:

  • Safety and security (27%)
  • Convenient location (19%)
  • Size (13%)
  • Privacy (12%)
  • Pet friendliness (12%)

Opinions, estimates, forecasts, and other views contained in this document are those of Freddie Mac’s economists and other researchers, do not necessarily represent the views of Freddie Mac or its management, and should not be construed as indicating Freddie Mac’s business prospects or expected results. Although the authors attempt to provide reliable, useful information, they do not guarantee that the information or other content in this document is accurate, current or suitable for any particular purpose. All content is subject to change without notice. All content is provided on an “as is” basis, with no warranties of any kind whatsoever. Information from this document may be used with proper attribution. Alteration of this document or its content is strictly prohibited. ©2024 by Freddie Mac.