The homeownership rate is the percentage of total occupied units which are owner-occupied. It provides a useful measure of national economic and social well-being. Homeownership continues to be an important part of the American dream, and although some people prefer to rent, the majority of Americans want to own a home.
In 1949, the United States set a national housing goal of a decent home in a suitable environment for every American. After World War II, when homeownership was about 45%, the rate rose steadily to reach a peak of 65.6% in 1980. After a period of lower rates, homeownership has begun to rise again and in 1997, it reached 65.7%, passing the peak set in 1980.

Link(s) to national databases (also see section on Related Internet Links):
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http://www.sdi.gov/indicators/lc_hown.htm Last Modified: May 13, 2002 |