Why owning a home is out of the question

Owning a home has long been considered a financial milestone, but for an average Pakistani, this goal is becoming increasingly unattainable. Property prices have surged beyond affordability, while stagnant wages and rising inflation make it harder for middle-income households to save enough for a down payment. As real estate continues to be a critical factor in economic stability, its increasing inaccessibility raises concerns about long-term financial security and living conditions for millions of people. The cost of renting and daily survival With homeownership slipping away, many Pakistanis turn to renting. However, rental costs are rising, making this an unsustainable alternative. According to the Gallup Pakistan Big Data Analysis of the 7th Pakistan Population and Housing Census 2023, around seven million households, or 13.6 per cent of the total, live in rented properties. Urban centres are particularly affected.