The average age of first-time homebuyers in England has surged to 34, according to new research from the Skipton Group, highlighting the escalating difficulties for younger adults trying to enter the property market. The findings reveal that the barriers to homeownership have increased significantly since the mid-1990s, when the typical first-time buyer was only 29 years old.
Shifting Demographics of Homeownership
The Skipton Group’s annual home affordability index reveals a stark decline in the number of first-time buyers under the age of 25, dropping to a mere 6%. This figure contrasts sharply with the 1990s, when young buyers represented a quarter of the market. Stuart Haire, the chief executive of Skipton Group, commented on these trends, stating, “The aspiration of homeownership has been pushed further out of reach for many younger adults, delaying independence and stability.”
Government statistics indicate that the average age of first-time buyers has consistently surpassed 33 since the 2021/2022 period. This upward trajectory not only reflects changing societal norms but also the increasing financial strain placed on younger generations.
Financial Pressures on First-Time Buyers
The financial landscape for first-time buyers has transformed dramatically over the years. The research shows that more than half of first-time buyers now require dual incomes to secure a property, a significant rise from the 40% recorded in the 1990s. Additionally, prospective homeowners are facing larger deposit requirements; the average deposit now exceeds a person’s annual salary by approximately 10%.
Moreover, the trend of taking on long-term mortgage debt has become more pronounced, with over half of first-time buyers opting for mortgages of 30 years or longer. A notable shift is also observed in the sources of these deposits, as nearly one in three buyers relies on financial assistance from family, while almost 10% benefit from inheritances. Despite these challenges, the majority of deposits still stem from personal savings.
Regional Variations in Housing Affordability
While the difficulties of entering the housing market are widespread, the situation varies greatly depending on location. By the end of 2025, East Renfrewshire, East Dunbartonshire, and Aberdeenshire emerged as the most affordable places to buy a home in Great Britain. Notably, nine of the ten most affordable areas are located in Scotland, with Harborough in the East Midlands rounding out the list.
In stark contrast, the least affordable areas are predominantly in London, with Hackney, Westminster, and Tower Hamlets topping the list. This regional disparity underscores the complex nature of the housing market, as affordability challenges persist in certain areas while opportunities arise in others.
A Glimmer of Hope in the Housing Market
Despite the hurdles facing first-time buyers, the report does highlight some positive developments in the housing sector. The evolution of the market means that buyers are now more likely to purchase properties that are larger, of better quality, and less costly to maintain compared to previous decades. Additionally, there has been an increase in the number of first-time buyers opting for houses rather than flats, suggesting a shift in preferences towards more spacious living arrangements.
Why it Matters
The growing age of first-time homebuyers and the financial pressures they face underscore a significant shift in the UK housing landscape. As homeownership becomes increasingly elusive for younger generations, it raises critical questions about economic mobility, wealth distribution, and the long-term implications for society. The challenges of securing a home not only affect individual aspirations but also have broader impacts on the economy, highlighting the urgent need for solutions that address housing affordability and accessibility for all.