Fact Check: California has the second-lowest homeownership rate in the nation, at 56 percent.

Fact Check: "California has the second-lowest homeownership rate in the nation, at 56 percent."

What We Know

The claim that California has the second-lowest homeownership rate in the nation, at 56 percent, is supported by multiple sources. According to the California Housing Affordability Tracker, as of the first quarter of 2025, only 56% of households in California own the home they live in. This figure is notably lower than the national average, which stands at approximately 65% during the same period. Furthermore, the only state with a lower homeownership rate is New York, which has a rate of 55% (Homeownership Trends in California).

The data indicates that California's high housing prices are a significant factor contributing to this low homeownership rate. The median value of owner-occupied houses in California is substantially higher than the national median, making homeownership increasingly out of reach for many residents (California Housing Affordability Tracker).

Analysis

The evidence supporting the claim comes from reliable sources, including government reports and research from reputable institutions. The California Housing Affordability Tracker provides a comprehensive overview of housing costs and trends, highlighting the financial barriers faced by potential homebuyers in California. Additionally, the Homeownership Trends in California report corroborates the 56% figure and contextualizes it within the broader national landscape, noting that California's homeownership rates have not changed significantly over the past several decades.

While the claim is well-supported, it is essential to consider the potential biases in the sources. The California Housing Affordability Tracker is produced by a state agency, which may have an interest in highlighting housing affordability issues. However, the data is consistent with independent analyses from other sources, such as the State of the Nation's Housing 2025 report, which notes a decline in homeownership rates across the U.S., particularly among younger households.

Conclusion

The claim that California has the second-lowest homeownership rate in the nation, at 56 percent, is True. This conclusion is based on consistent data from multiple credible sources, which indicate that California's homeownership rate is significantly lower than the national average and only slightly higher than New York's.

Fact Check: California has the second-lowest homeownership rate in the nation, at 56 percent.