Baby Boomers Remain the Largest Group of Homebuyers

While Generation Z made up just 4% of homebuyers, Baby Boomers accounted for 42% of all buyers in the beginning of the year
April 17, 2026
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Baby Boomer couple looking at home listings on a laptop

Baby Boomers account for 42% of homebuyers. 

Baby Boomers remain the largest generational group of homebuyers, according to the National Association of Realtors’ 2026 Homebuyers and Sellers Generational Trends report. Unchanged from the prior year’s survey, Baby Boomers account for 42% of all homebuyers.

How do other generations compare?

Generation Z and the Silent Generation make up the smallest groups of homebuyers last year, with both at 4%. Meanwhile Generation X and Millennials account for a respective 25% and 26% of buyers.

The housing market remains sharply divided between homeowners with equity and first-time buyers trying to break in—many of whom are younger Millennials. For many younger households, affordability challenges and limited inventory are still making homeownership difficult to achieve.

- Dr. Jessica Lautz, NAR deputy chief economist

Baby Boomers are also selling the most homes

Baby Boomers make up the largest share of home sellers at 55%, but they’re also staying in their homes for longer periods. Across all generations, sellers typically stay in their homes for 11 years before selling, but younger Millennials are selling after five years and older Baby Boomers typically sell after 15 years.

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