Zillow and Thumbtack Analysis Reveals Average Annual Hidden Homeownership Costs Reach $16,566
A joint analysis by Zillow and Thumbtack reveals that the average U.S. homeowner faces approximately $16,566 in annual 'hidden costs'—comprising maintenance, property taxes, and insurance—on top of mortgage payments. While these expenses have surged 32% over the last five years, the rate of increase has slowed significantly, with only a 3% rise recorded over the past year. Maintenance remains the largest single expense at $11,171 annually, though homeowners insurance is the fastest-growing category, having jumped 54% over five years. Regional disparities are stark: coastal cities like New York and San Francisco face much higher total hidden costs exceeding $24,000, while storm-prone metros such as Dallas and Houston are seeing insurance premiums outpace property taxes due to severe weather risks.
Topics: homeownership costs insurance premiums maintenance costs property taxes real estate market analysis