Housing Permits Hold Flat Across U.S. Through August

National residential permit issuance from January to August 2026 stayed essentially unchanged, with several states issuing permits at double the national rate.

Updated on Nov. 7, 2026 in Residential

Isometric editorial illustration of stacked timber planks and a roof truss on bare ground beneath a pale open sky, in muted oxblood, mustard, and slate tones. — Residential building permits held essentially flat across the U.S. from January through August, at 968,187 permits nationwide, while South Carolina, Idaho, and North Carolina issued at double the national rate. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Housing permits remained essentially flat nationwide from January to August 2026, with 968,187 permits issued. South Carolina, Idaho, and North Carolina issued permits at rates at least double the national average.

Why it matters

Flat permit activity in a year when many households struggle to afford median-priced homes keeps pressure on the nation's housing supply. Regional gaps in building activity show that affordability challenges vary considerably across states.

The Lied Center for Real Estate at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas compiled the permit figures in an October report. Permits for single-family homes made up 64% of issuance and multifamily homes 32%, but the report does not specify the drivers behind the flat trend.

The players

Lied Center for Real Estate

A research center at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas that studies real estate markets and publishes data-driven housing analysis.

The details

The Lied Center for Real Estate at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas compared each state's median-priced home with the income of homeowner households. In 31 states, the median homeowner earns less than what is needed to afford a median-priced home, with California showing the largest gap at $84,900.

January to August 2026: permit issuance period covered by the report.
October 2026: Lied Center research report published.

Market Landscape

Permit activity has slipped 4.1% since 2023, even as income shortfalls persist in 31 states. The mix of single-family and multifamily permits reflects how builders are responding to that gap.

Homebuyers in states where median incomes fall short of median home prices may face continued tight options. Renters and buyers should compare permit activity in their own states before deciding on timing.

The takeaway

Housing affordability depends heavily on where you live, so checking local permit trends and income-to-price ratios can clarify your options before you buy or rent.