Share of Mortgages Held by the Bottom 50% (1st to 50th Wealth Percentiles)
This dataset tracks share of mortgages held by the bottom 50% (1st to 50th wealth percentiles) over time.
Latest Value
0.20
Year-over-Year Change
-50.00%
Date Range
7/1/1989 - 1/1/2025
Summary
The 'Share of Mortgages Held by the Bottom 50% (1st to 50th Wealth Percentiles)' measures the percentage of total mortgage debt held by individuals in the bottom 50% of the U.S. wealth distribution. This metric provides insights into housing affordability and financial inclusion.
Analysis & Context
This economic indicator provides valuable insights into current market conditions and economic trends. The data is updated regularly by the Federal Reserve and represents one of the most reliable sources for economic analysis.
Understanding this metric helps economists, policymakers, and investors make informed decisions about economic conditions and future trends. The interactive chart above allows you to explore historical patterns and identify key trends over time.
About This Dataset
This economic trend tracks the share of total mortgage debt held by individuals in the lower half of the U.S. wealth spectrum. It offers valuable insights into the distribution of mortgage ownership and can inform discussions around housing policies and financial access.
Methodology
The data is collected through Federal Reserve surveys and calculations.
Historical Context
Policymakers and analysts use this metric to assess trends in housing affordability and financial inclusion.
Key Facts
- The share has declined from over 10% in the 1980s to under 5% in recent years.
- Lower-wealth households hold a small and decreasing fraction of total mortgage debt.
- This trend reflects growing wealth inequality and housing affordability challenges.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: This trend measures the percentage of total mortgage debt held by individuals in the bottom 50% of the U.S. wealth distribution.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This metric provides insights into housing affordability and financial inclusion, which are important considerations for policymakers and economists.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through Federal Reserve surveys and calculations.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Policymakers and analysts use this metric to assess trends in housing affordability and financial inclusion, which can inform policy decisions.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is updated periodically by the Federal Reserve, but there may be delays in the availability of the most recent figures.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Share of Mortgages Held by the Bottom 50% (1st to 50th Wealth Percentiles) (WFRBSB50202), retrieved from FRED.