HAR: housing affordability rising across Greater Houston region

According to the latest report from the Houston Association of Realtors, 42% of Houston-area residents are able to afford a median-priced home, up from 2025. As previously reported, in the third quarter of 2025 only 39% of residents were considered able to afford a median-priced home.

“Affordability is moving in the right direction, and that’s encouraging, but we also know many consumers are still concerned about the cost of buying a home, particularly with mortgage rates remaining elevated,” said HAR Chair Theresa Hill with Compass RE Texas, LLC – Houston.

Zooming in

The slight increase in affordability follows a 0.4% decline in median home prices, going from $341,600 to $340,300. Despite the decrease, HAR forecasted residents still need a minimum income of $100,800 to be able to afford a single-family home.

Hill advised those interested in buying to connect with a realtor to reexamine potential opportunities.

“For buyers who may have been sitting on the sidelines, it’s worth taking another look at what’s possible," Hill said. "A realtor can help buyers understand their options and determine what’s realistic for their budget.”

Another note

Affordability remained slightly higher when it came to affording a lease on a single-family home. HAR data shows 44% of Houston-area residents can afford the median lease cost for a single family home, with the cheapest leasing options in Montgomery and Harris counties.

The biggest decrease in leasing prices year over year came in Fort Bend County, where average monthly lease costs fell from $2,400 to $2,350. However, the county still averages the highest monthly lease costs across Brazoria, Galveston, Harris and Montgomery counties.