2025 Rural Housing Market Insights and Advice for Homebuyers
The past year has felt like an economic rollercoaster, and rural communities are feeling it too. From tariffs to inflation, there’s been no shortage of headlines to process, and I bet many of you are wondering, “Is it too risky to buy a home right now?”
It’s a fair question. Deciding when to enter the housing market can feel daunting even in calmer times. My advice is to make sure you have the right partner in your corner. At Compeer Home, we work with clients every day who are navigating these same challenges, and I want to share what I’m seeing as we look toward 2026.
Dr. Megan Roberts, Compeer Economist
Looking Ahead with Optimism
While I don’t have a crystal ball, I believe there are reasons to be optimistic. If we can get through this uncertain period, we could return to steady growth in the overall economy — and that means growth in rural areas too.
This isn’t the first time we’ve recently faced economic uncertainty. We’ve weathered a lot over the past several years from the 2018 tariffs to the challenges of 2020 and the inflationary pressures of 2022, but rural communities have proven time and again that they’re strong and adaptable. That history gives me cautious confidence we can handle what comes next. There could be opportunity on the horizon.
How Rural Economies Are Doing
Rural economies aren’t immune to what’s happening globally, but they operate under a unique set of circumstances. For example, prices for grain and oilseeds have dipped, but they aren’t facing the same extreme swings we’ve seen in other markets.
A lot of rural communities feel the impact of agriculture, but most are also supported by a variety of other industries. Rural economies with a mix of industries generally experience more resiliency, even when one sector experiences pressure.
What This Means for Rural Buyers
Right now, the housing market in rural areas is what I’d call “warm.” Homes are still moving, but it’s not as tight or competitive as it was immediately after COVID.
Looking ahead, I expect the housing market will pick up if interest rates decline in 2026. If you’re considering waiting to buy, keep in mind that the competition could be tougher when rates drop.
When you’re deciding what’s right for you, start by looking at what you can comfortably afford each month with current rates. Every buyer’s situation is different, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.
How Compeer Home Can Help
If market conditions change, Compeer Home offers a unique advantage: We provide a one-time rate adjustment without the usual costs of refinancing. This flexibility can make a big difference for buyers who want to take action now but still have options later.
Our team understands rural lending inside and out. Because we live and work in these communities, we share the same values and motivations that drive you to make your home here.
We live in rural America. We know rural America. We champion rural America. At Compeer Home, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Taking the Next Step
If you’re thinking about buying a home, start by exploring your options with our Loan Finder tool today.
