WASHINGTON (RFD-TV) — U.S. housing construction slowed in the second quarter of 2025, with single-family permits declining in nearly every region, according to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB).
Large metro areas posted the sharpest decline at 3.8 percent, while rural “micro counties” bucked the trend, recording a 1.8 percent increase — their fifth straight quarter of growth. Collectively, less densely populated regions captured just over 50 percent of the single-family market share, their highest level since early 2023.
NAHB leaders cite high mortgage rates, labor shortages, and regulatory costs as barriers to new single-family construction. At the same time, multifamily construction has expanded in smaller and rural counties, benefiting from lower land costs and lighter regulations.
Small metro outlying areas led with a 22 percent gain in multifamily permits, while large metro cores posted their ninth consecutive quarterly decline.
Tony’s Farm-Level Takeaway: While big-city housing starts are slowing, rural and small-market counties are gaining share in both single- and multifamily construction. For rural communities, this shift could mean new housing options for farmworkers and young families priced out of metro markets.
RFD-TV ag legal expert Roger McEowen examines common issues facing farmers, ranchers, and rural landowners: SAF fuel, R&D credit, drones, and cleaning fencerows.
September 17, 2024 12:15 PM
·
“I think there’s a number of attributes of the Southern Plains that have been very attractive. One is land availability, the ability to grow feed on that land”
September 05, 2024 12:31 PM
Right-to-Farm Law Inapplicable when Farming Operation Not in Compliance with State Law – All of It
August 28, 2024 12:02 PM
·
Agricultural law and taxation expert Roger McEowen discusses issues facing farmers and ranchers, like self-defense, Good Samaritan laws, preparing for the exit, and cleaning out fencerows.
August 27, 2024 09:07 AM
·
When you work on your estate plan, RFD-TV’s farm legal and tax expert Roger McEowen recommends preparing a vital list of information for whoever will need it.
August 16, 2024 01:31 PM
·
When it comes to agricultural law and tax, educating yourself about potential issues and seeking legal and tax counsel is crucial for any agriculture business.
