A recent analysis by Zillow Group Inc. reveals that median-income families in the U.S. are facing increased challenges in affording a typical home. Despite having a $73,000 down payment saved, these families would require an additional $17,670 in income to manage monthly mortgage payments comfortably. The report highlights that in four California markets, median earners would need a six-figure raise to afford the average home. Currently, only 11 major markets are affordable for median earners, a significant drop from 39 markets five years ago. This shift is attributed to substantial home value growth and higher mortgage rates. Zillow's senior economist, Kara Ng, notes that while the market is more favorable for buyers this spring, with increased inventory and softening prices, lasting solutions are needed to make homeownership accessible. These include policies that encourage building more homes in appropriate locations. As affordability pressures mount, there's a growing interest in single-family rentals, which have seen a 41% rent increase over the past five years. To finance home purchases, many buyers are utilizing multiple sources for down payments, with savings, previous home sales, and gifts or loans from family being the most common.