A research paper by economists Seung Hyeong Lee of Northwestern University and Younggeun Yoo of the University of Chicago indicates that millennials are increasingly pessimistic about achieving homeownership. The study estimates that approximately 74 percent of individuals born in 1990 will own a home by retirement, a decrease of 9.6 percent from the nearly 84 percent of those born in 1950 who became homeowners.

Millennials, defined as individuals aged 29 to 44 and born between 1981 and 1996, are particularly affected, with about 15 percent of the U.S. population having already given up on homeownership by age 30. The median home price in November was reported at $433,275, reflecting a 0.7 percent increase from the previous year. Concurrently, the average 30-year fixed-rate mortgage was 6.21 percent, down from 6.72 percent a year prior.

The paper, titled "Giving Up," suggests that as confidence in achieving homeownership declines, individuals tend to consume more relative to their wealth, exert less effort in their jobs, and engage in riskier investments. Sociologist Stefanie DeLuca from Johns Hopkins University noted that the increased spending is often directed towards enriching activities for children or supporting family members in need, rather than frivolous expenditures.

Lee and Yoo advocate for a subsidy aimed at households on the verge of abandoning homeownership aspirations. While there are numerous government assistance programs available, Rob Chrane, CEO of Down Payment Resource, emphasized the need for improved communication regarding these programs rather than the creation of new ones. Additionally, economist Cristian deRitis from Moody's highlighted a broader issue, stating that the housing market requires an addition of 2 million units to meet demand. Despite a reported 4.7 percent increase in homes for sale in November compared to the previous year, the overall supply remains insufficient.

In parallel, a CNN poll conducted by SSRS indicates that a significant portion of the American public lacks confidence in the attentiveness of political leaders to their needs. When asked what they would communicate to President Donald Trump, many respondents emphasized economic issues, with 40% of Republicans and Republican-leaning independents citing concerns about the economy and cost of living.

The poll found that nearly 40% of Americans believe that neither Trump nor Democratic leadership is listening to their concerns, with only 34% feeling that Trump cares about their opinions and 36% feeling similarly about Democratic leaders. Many respondents articulated a sentiment that both parties prioritize their interests over those of constituents.

In addition to economic concerns, some respondents expressed a desire for Trump to change his personal conduct, with 15% suggesting he could improve by being more respectful or presidential. Democratic respondents also provided feedback for their party's leadership, with 19% advocating for a more assertive stance against Trump and the Republican Party.

Overall, a notable portion of Americans expressed a desire to be heard, with some urging leaders to prioritize community needs over partisan politics.

Recent reports further highlight a growing economic divide in the United States, despite claims of robust economic growth. President Donald Trump's allies have emphasized a reported GDP growth of over 4% in the third quarter of 2025. However, analysis from various economists reveals a troubling disparity in economic benefits.

Ron Insana, a finance reporter, noted that the economic growth is largely driven by the top 20% of income earners, who account for 63% of all consumer spending. In contrast, lower-income individuals are increasingly reliant on 'buy-now-pay-later' schemes for holiday shopping, indicating financial distress among this demographic.

Dean Baker, co-founder of the Center for Economic and Policy Research, pointed out that real gross domestic income, which measures worker compensation relative to total economic output, grew by only 2.4% in the same period. Most of the income gains were concentrated at the top of the income ladder, while wages for the majority remained stagnant.

Polling data reflects a growing dissatisfaction among Americans, with many reporting struggles due to rising living costs and a weakening job market. The Federal Reserve Bank of Boston has noted that low-income consumers are carrying significantly higher credit card debt compared to pre-pandemic levels.

Economist Paul Krugman highlighted that the current labor market has stagnated, limiting job opportunities for workers and their ability to negotiate higher wages. He contrasted the current situation with the labor market conditions during the Biden administration, where job-seeking was reportedly easier.

Despite these insights, U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick inaccurately claimed that the GDP growth directly translates to a 4.3% increase in earnings for all Americans, overlooking the complexities of GDP as a measure of economic health. GDP encompasses total consumer spending, government spending, net exports, and investments, and does not directly correlate with individual income levels.