Do you really know? Is it still possible for young people in the UK to become homeowners?
Nov 21, 2025
Owning a home in the UK is viewed as a financial safety net and wealth builder. The average first-time buyer is now just under 34, reflecting a shift from the late twenties in the 1990s. Key challenges include soaring house prices versus stagnant wages, leaving many young people unable to afford deposits or manage long mortgage terms. Furthermore, job insecurities and rising NEET rates complicate the path to homeownership. Despite the hurdles, Amber suggests that with savings and family support, young people can still achieve their dream of owning a home.
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Housing Costs Outpace Wages
- House prices have risen much faster than wages, making deposits and repayments harder for first-time buyers.
- The average English home costs 7.7 times the average salary and London over 11 times, squeezing affordability.
First-Time Buyers Are Older
- The average age of first-time buyers has risen to about 34 nationally and 35 in London.
- This contrasts with the 1990s when first-time buyers were typically in their late twenties.
Plan For Longer Mortgages And Compromises
- Expect longer mortgage terms like 30–35 years to make monthly payments affordable.
- Be prepared to compromise on property size or location and save for years if you lack family support.