Million-Dollar Starter Homes Have Spread to 26 States — And It's No Longer Just the Coasts

In this episode of Everyday Economics, Chris Krug and Dr. Orphe Divounguy break down America’s worsening housing affordability crisis. A record 242 U.S. cities now have starter homes worth $1 million or more—nearly triple pre-pandemic levels. What’s driving home prices so high, and why are first-time buyers struggling to enter the market? We discuss: • Why starter homes are disappearing • The economic forces driving housing inflation • How zoning laws and regulations impact supply • Why rents are finally cooling in some markets • The long-term impact on taxpayers and middle-class families As mortgage rates remain elevated and supply stays tight, housing affordability is becoming one of the biggest economic challenges facing Americans. If you care about economics, finance, housing policy, and taxpayer impact, this episode is for you. #HousingMarket #RealEstate #HousingCrisis #Economics