Share of Mortgages Held by the 50th to 90th Wealth Percentiles
This dataset tracks share of mortgages held by the 50th to 90th wealth percentiles over time.
Latest Value
27.90
Year-over-Year Change
-2.45%
Date Range
7/1/1989 - 1/1/2025
Summary
The 'Share of Mortgages Held by the 50th to 90th Wealth Percentiles' measures the proportion of mortgage debt held by middle-income American households. This metric provides insights into wealth distribution and housing market dynamics.
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 represents the percentage of total outstanding mortgage debt held by households between the 50th and 90th wealth percentiles. It offers valuable insights into the role of middle-income Americans in the U.S. housing market and their ability to access mortgage financing.
Methodology
The data is calculated by the Federal Reserve based on the Survey of Consumer Finances.
Historical Context
Policymakers and analysts monitor this trend to assess the housing market and financial health of the middle class.
Key Facts
- The 50th to 90th wealth percentiles held 68.3% of U.S. mortgage debt in 2019.
- Mortgage debt held by the middle class has declined from a peak of 73.2% in 2007.
- The trend provides insights into housing affordability and access to credit for middle-income Americans.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: This trend measures the share of total outstanding mortgage debt held by U.S. households between the 50th and 90th wealth percentiles.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This metric offers insights into the role of middle-income Americans in the housing market and their ability to access mortgage financing, which is crucial for understanding wealth distribution and housing affordability.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is calculated by the Federal Reserve based on the Survey of Consumer Finances.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Policymakers and analysts monitor this trend to assess the health of the housing market and the financial well-being of the middle class, which is important for informing policy decisions.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is updated periodically based on the Survey of Consumer Finances, which is conducted every three years.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Share of Mortgages Held by the 50th to 90th Wealth Percentiles (WFRBSN40175), retrieved from FRED.