New Census Bureau data reveals rising rental vacancies, steady homeownership levels, and regional differences across the U.S. housing market.
The U.S. residential housing market saw an increase in rental vacancies during the third quarter of 2026, while homeowner vacancies and the national homeownership rate remained relatively stable, according to the latest report from the U.S. Census Bureau, released October 28, 2026.
The national rental vacancy rate reached 7.6%, up from 7.1% in Q3 2025 and 7.3% in Q2 2026. Meanwhile, the homeowner vacancy rate remained at 1.2%, and the homeownership rate stood at 65.5%.
Rental Prices and Housing Costs
The median asking rent for vacant rental units reached $1,541, while the median asking sales price for vacant homes listed for sale was $353,600.
These figures provide a snapshot of rental and homeownership costs as housing availability continues to shift across the country.
Regional Housing Market Differences
The South recorded the highest rental vacancy rate at 9.2%, followed by the Midwest (7.1%), West (6.7%), and Northeast (6.2%).
The Midwest led in homeownership, with a rate of 69.5%, followed by the South at 67.2%, Northeast at 62.9%, and West at 60.6%.
Homeownership Gaps Across Generations
The report also highlights differences in homeownership by age. Americans aged 65 and older recorded the highest homeownership rate at 79.1%, while householders under 35 had the lowest at 36.6%.
This highlights the considerable generational differences in homeownership across the U.S. housing market.
What This Means for Real Estate
The Q3 2026 findings point to a housing market characterized by increasing rental vacancies, stable homeownership levels, and varying regional housing conditions.
For real estate investors, operators, and industry professionals, these trends offer valuable insights into rental availability, housing inventory, and changing homeownership patterns.
Monitoring these indicators will remain important as market conditions evolve heading into 2027.
The next U.S. Census Bureau Quarterly Residential Vacancies and Homeownership report is scheduled for release on February 2, 2027.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau
