Housing Costs

The growing population has caused housing prices to rise rapidly in the region. This trend increased in the months that followed the onset of COVID-19. People from around the country began to move away from larger cities to more affordable, smaller metros with more square footage, yards and greenspace availability. In addition, housing construction has not kept up with demand, forcing prices higher.

Owner-occupied vs. Renter-occupied Housing in the Region, 2021

Median Sale Price by County, 2017-2021

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2021 American Community Survey, 1-Year Estimates

Poverty Rate

The poverty rate in the region is 11.7%, slightly lower than the U.S. at 12.8%. Poverty affects females, minorities and those under 18 at the highest percentage rates. Economic prosperity must be shared by all residents to alleviate poverty.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2021 American Community Survey, 1-Year Estimates