Affordability Concerns Surge Across Central Indiana, Driving Declines in Community Satisfaction
INDIANAPOLIS — Financial pressures are reshaping how Central Indiana residents feel about their communities. This is one of the key findings from the 2026 Community Preference Survey commissioned by the MIBOR REALTOR(R) Association and the Indianapolis MPO. The findings reveal sharp increases in dissatisfaction with housing affordability, property taxes, and overall financial conditions — trends affecting residents across every demographic group.
Nearly half of surveyed residents say they are dissatisfied with the affordability of housing in their area, a jump of 15 points since 2022. Dissatisfaction with property and local taxes has risen even more steeply, increasing 19 points over the same period. This broad shift signals that affordability is a growing concern for households throughout the region.
The survey also shows a striking rise in intense dissatisfaction. The share of residents who are very dissatisfied with property taxes has doubled, climbing from 13% in 2022 to 27% in 2026. Intense dissatisfaction with housing affordability has also nearly doubled, rising from 15% to 26%.
“These shifts tell a clear story,” the report notes. “Residents across all ages, incomes, and counties are feeling the squeeze from rising housing costs and local taxes.”
Financial strain is also emerging as a major barrier to homeownership. When asked about obstacles to buying a home in Central Indiana, residents overwhelmingly pointed to cost pressures:
• Affording the down payment ranks as the top obstacle, with 86% calling it a huge or medium‑sized barrier.
• High property taxes or insurance costs follow at 82%.
• Personal debt, including credit card and auto loans, is close behind at 81%.
• Childcare costs or responsibilities also pose significant challenges, affecting 76% of prospective homeowners.
These findings illustrate how affordability concerns — spanning housing prices, taxes, and everyday household expenses — are increasingly shaping residents’ experiences and limiting pathways to homeownership.
The full survey report, including detailed findings across all community features and demographics, will be released August 12.
About MIBOR REALTOR® Association
Founded in 1912, MIBOR REALTOR® Association (MIBOR) serves more than 10,000 REALTORS® and real estate professionals throughout central Indiana. As a trusted resource for housing market insights, professional standards, and real estate expertise, MIBOR supports an efficient marketplace through education, technology, and collaboration while helping to strengthen communities and advance the dream of homeownership.
Media Contacts:
MIBOR REALTOR® Association
Paula Scheller
paulascheller@mibor.com
317-956-5246
ABOUT IMPO:
The Indianapolis Metropolitan Planning Organization (IMPO) is Central Indiana’s federally designated regional planning organization. The IMPO develops short- and long-range plans to support local governments and advance the region’s goals in transportation, economic development, housing, safety, sustainability, and quality of life. The IMPO distributes federal transportation funding to local agencies for infrastructure projects that move people and goods throughout Central Indiana.
Media Contacts:
Indianapolis Metropolitan Planning Organization
Danielle Frey
317-327-3574