Explainer

Lower-Income Households Devote More of Their Budget to Housing

Housing consumes a larger share of spending for lower-income households than for higher-income households.

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What This Graphic Shows

The graphic compares 2024 Consumer Expenditure Survey housing budget shares across income fifths and highlights a 12.3-point gap between the lowest and highest fifths.

Key Takeaway

The same category can create very different budget pressure depending on household income.

Verification Status:

Verified — Current

Last Verified:

September 21, 2026

Sources

Review the sources used to support this visual.

Ohio Common Ground Research Center

What Became More — and Less — Affordable Since 2000

September 10, 2026
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