Poll: Nearly 9 in 10 Voters Say Buying a Home Has Never Been Harder—and They Want Congress To Act

May 8, 2026 - 01:11

A new national survey reveals that an overwhelming majority of American voters believe the housing market is in its worst state ever, and they are demanding federal action. According to the poll, 87 percent of voters say buying a home has never been more difficult. The sentiment cuts across party lines, with 91 percent of Democrats, 87 percent of Republicans, and 83 percent of independents agreeing that homeownership is at a historic low point in terms of affordability.

The data comes as a major piece of housing legislation remains stuck in Congress. The bill, which aims to increase housing supply and lower costs through tax incentives and zoning reforms, has failed to advance despite broad public support. The poll found that 78 percent of voters want Congress to take immediate steps to make homeownership more accessible. Even among those who say they are not currently in the market, 65 percent still back federal intervention.

Experts point to a perfect storm of high interest rates, record home prices, and a severe shortage of available homes. The median home price has risen more than 40 percent since 2020, while mortgage rates have more than doubled. For many younger buyers, the dream of owning a home now feels out of reach. The poll suggests that frustration is boiling over into a clear political demand: voters want lawmakers to stop debating and start building.