08/23/2026
Where are young Americans buying homes? 🏡
In Nevada, only 17% of mortgage applicants are under 35—a reminder that affordability remains a major challenge for younger buyers. But with the right guidance and strategy, homeownership is still within reach!
* Affordability drives younger buyers. The four states with the highest share of mortgage applicants under 35 all have typical home values below $300,000.
* Leading states for younger buyers:
* North Dakota: 28.3%
* West Virginia: 26.5%
* Nebraska: 25.7%
* Iowa: 25.6%
* Expensive markets generally attract fewer younger applicants. California’s share is 14.7%, compared with a typical home value of approximately $776,000.
* Utah is an exception: Despite typical home values around $541,000, younger adults account for 23.7% of mortgage applications.
* Texas has the most younger applicants overall: Approximately 260,000, despite ranking lower by percentage.
* Delaware ranks last: Just 13.4% of applicants are under 35. SmartAsset: Where Young Adults Are House Hunting
What this means for Nevada and Las Vegas
Nevada ranks near the bottom:
* 16.6% of mortgage applicants are under 35.
* Approximately 23,500 younger adults applied for mortgages.
* Typical statewide home value: $447,225.
Important caveat: This study measures mortgage applications, including applications that were denied or withdrawn—not completed purchases. Its Nevada figures are statewide, not specific to Las Vegas.
