Baby Boomers remained the largest generational group of home buyers this year, while the share of first-time buyers fell to the lowest level on record, according to the 2026 Home Buyers and Sellers Generational Trends report from the National Association of REALTORS®.
By the numbers: The report examines the similarities and differences among recent home buyers and sellers across generations. Among all home buyers in the past year, the generational breakdown was as follows:
- Gen Z: Four percent (up from three percent last year)
- Millennials: 26 percent (down from 29 percent last year)
- Gen X: 25 percent (up from 24 percent in 2025)
- Baby Boomers: 42 percent (unchanged from last year)
- Silent Generation: Four percent (unchanged from last year)
On the selling side, Baby Boomers also remained dominant, making up 55 percent of all home sellers. Across all generations, sellers typically stayed in their homes for 11 years before selling, while Younger Millennials sold after five years and Older Boomers typically sold after 15 years.
What they’re saying: “Baby Boomers are at a point in life when they have the flexibility to move, often with housing equity to help purchase their next home,” said NAR Deputy Chief Economist Dr. Jessica Lautz.
- “In earlier years, Baby Boomers—like Millennials today—may have moved because of a job change or the need for a larger home. Today, many Baby Boomers are embracing choice and moving to be closer to friends and family, to downsize, or to retire and enjoy a work-free lifestyle.”
