HousingWireHousingWire
A new Redfin survey reveals sharp divides among Americans over how immigration and tariffs are affecting housing affordability, reflecting a complex and politically charged landscape.
More than half of U.S. homeowners and renters (51.2%) believe that reducing immigration could worsen housing affordability by shrinking the pool of construction workers and limiting the number of new homes built. In turn, they believe this could drive up home prices.
At the same time, 38.5% of survey respondents expressed the opposite view — that fewer immigrants would lower demand for housing, making homes more affordable.
The survey, conducted by Redfin between March 28 and April 28 — polled 4,000 homeowners and renters nationwide.
Political affiliation strongly influenced responses. About 67.1% of Democrats agreed that lower immigration levels could lead to fewer homes and higher prices, compared to just 38.7% of Republicans.
Respondents were similarly divided on the role of tariffs in shaping the housing market.
Nearly 68% agreed that tariffs contribute to home-price appreciation and help keep interest rates high — both of which can suppress homebuying activity. But about 35% believed that tariffs could boost the economy and help more Americans afford homes.
Again, responses were split along party lines. A majority of Republicans (55.3%) said they believe tariffs will strengthen the economy and improve affordability, but only 23.9% of Democrats said the same.
Redfin has previously reported on how economic uncertainty — including concerns over tariff policy — is shaping consumer behavior.
In April, the company noted that nearly one in four Americans had canceled plans to make a major purchase — such as buying a home or a car — due to President Donald Trump‘s newly enacted tariffs.
The latest survey suggests that tariffs remain a source of anxiety for many.
Roughly 43.1% of respondents said they were either very or somewhat worried about the potential impact of tariffs on their local housing market and property values. Just 33.1% said they were hopeful.
On immigration, the numbers tilted slightly toward optimism. About 40.7% of respondents said they felt hopeful about the broader economic effects of reduced immigration or deportations. Meanwhile, 26.3% reported feeling worried.
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