Just in time for Women’s History Month, a new housing data analysis reveals that despite affordability challenges, the number of single female homeowners in the U.S. climbed to an all-time high last year, surpassing 20 million.
America’s solo female homeowners achieved this record-breaking milestone despite a slight dip in their overall homeownership rate, which decreased from roughly 52% to 51%, according to a new report from First American Financial Corp., a provider of title insurance and settlement services.
Although this may seem like a paradox, Odeta Kushi, deputy chief economist at First American, explains that the easing homeownership rate is not a sign of weaker demand; instead, the number of single women forming households on their own simply outpaced the speed of home purchases.
“In other words, the rate softened not because fewer women owned homes, but because more women formed independent households,” writes Kushi.
Realtor.com® Chief Economist Danielle Hale points out that the profile of the single female homeowner defies the common stereotype of the young, never-married woman striking out on her own. In reality, this demographic is far more diverse, encompassing a wide range of ages, life stages, and financial backgrounds.
“A big portion of the increase in single-female homebuyers is older women who are likely separated, divorced, or widowed,” says Hale. “Single-female buyers are far more likely to have family, such as kids or older dependents, living with them.”
Single ladies’ housing must-haves
Eva Angelina Romero, a real estate agent at Century 21 in Nashville, TN, tells Realtor.com that she has seen a surge in single female homebuyers in the local market in recent years, including within her own circle.
“My daughter and one of our team members purchased homes as single women because they recognized the opportunity to build equity instead of renting,” Romero says.
According to the agent, solo female buyers place a strong emphasis on safety, neighborhood feel, and convenience. They tend to be thoughtful about the long-term value of a property and how it fits their lifestyle.
“I often see them researching neighborhoods carefully and prioritizing walkability, community, and homes that feel secure,” adds Romero.
In terms of preferred inventory, many single female shoppers gravitate toward condos, townhomes, or smaller single-family homes that are easier to maintain. Romero says updated kitchens, ample storage space, and homes that are move-in ready are top-tier priorities.
College-to-closing table pipeline
The record-breaking rise in female homeownership is fueled by women’s pursuit of higher education. As more women earn college degrees, their earning potential rises, bringing them closer to the closing table.
The share of single women with a bachelor’s degree or higher has jumped from 20% in 2000 to 35% last year, expanding the pool of financially prepared buyers, according to the report.
At the same time, real median household income among single women has increased from $42,000 to $51,000, boosting their purchasing power.
“While affordability remains strained relative to historical norms, these structural gains in education and income provide a durable foundation for homeownership,” writes Kushi.
What does it mean for the housing market?
Single women’s role in the housing market cannot be overestimated. According to the 2025 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers report released in the fall by the National Association of Realtors®, solo female house hunters made up 21% of all buyers, more than double the share of single men.
“That’s especially impressive considering single women homeowners earn about 84 cents for every dollar earned by single men, yet many continue to prioritize homeownership as a path to financial stability,” Nadia Evangelou, principal economist at NAR, tells Realtor.com.
Many women report making major financial sacrifices, from cutting nonessential spending to delaying vacations, or taking on second jobs just to save for a down payment in their quest to become homeowners and begin building equity, which is the cornerstone of wealth accumulation in the U.S.
“A lot of women are realizing that buying a home is one of the best ways to start investing in their future,” says Romero. “In markets like Nashville, some are also motivated by recognizing areas with growth potential and wanting to get in early before prices rise further.”
