Housing Vacancy Rate
Definition
The percentage of total housing units that are vacant (unoccupied). Includes seasonal homes, units for sale, units for rent, and other vacant units.
Why It Matters
Vacancy rates indicate housing market tightness. Very low vacancy drives up prices; very high vacancy may signal economic decline. A moderate rate (10-12%) indicates a healthy market with options for movers.
How It's Measured
The Census Bureau classifies each housing unit as occupied or vacant during the ACS survey. Vacant units are further classified by reason for vacancy.
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Frequently Asked Questions
The percentage of total housing units that are vacant (unoccupied). Includes seasonal homes, units for sale, units for rent, and other vacant units.
Vacancy rates indicate housing market tightness. Very low vacancy drives up prices; very high vacancy may signal economic decline. A moderate rate (10-12%) indicates a healthy market with options for movers.
The Census Bureau classifies each housing unit as occupied or vacant during the ACS survey. Vacant units are further classified by reason for vacancy.