06/16/2026
For 50 years, Habitat for Humanity has worked alongside families as they build strength, stability, and independence through homeownership. Along the way, we’ve heard countless stories about how owning a safe, affordable home can change not just one life, but generations to come.
Now, a new study offers data to support what Habitat families and affiliates have seen for decades.
Habitat for Humanity International, 43 local Habitat affiliates, and Washington University in St. Louis partnered on a study called Paths to Stability and Wealth. The research looked at whether Habitat’s homeownership model helps families build long-term financial security.
The answer is encouraging: yes.
The study found that Habitat homeownership helps families do more than purchase a house. It helps create a foundation for the future. Affordable mortgages, homeowner education, financial coaching, and ongoing support all work together to help families gain stability, improve their financial health, and build wealth over time.
A few key findings:
Habitat homeowners saw stronger credit score growth over time compared with similar non-Habitat neighbors. On average, Habitat homeowners gained 22 more credit score points.
The impact was especially strong for Black Habitat homeowners, whose credit scores improved by nearly 45 points by the fifth year of homeownership compared with Black non-Habitat neighbors.
Black Habitat homeowners also showed notable savings growth, with gains reaching an average of nearly $8,000 by the sixth year.
Habitat homeowners accumulated an average of $1,800 more in liquid assets than comparable neighbors, with gains increasing after the third year of homeownership.
And 83.4% of Habitat homeowners reported being satisfied or very satisfied with their home.
As we reflect on Juneteenth and its meaning of freedom, opportunity, and equitable community building, these findings are especially meaningful. They remind us that access to affordable homeownership can be a powerful tool for stability, resilience, and generational progress.
We’re grateful for the homeowners, volunteers, donors, and community partners who make this work possible. Together, we are helping open the door to brighter futures.
