
North Houston and Spring Housing Affordability Sees Modest Gains in Q2 2025, According to HAR Reports
Home affordability in North Houston and Spring showed modest improvement in the second quarter of 2025, mirroring a broader upward trend across the Houston metro area, according to the Houston Association of Realtors’ Housing Affordability Index.
Across Greater Houston, 39% of households could afford a median-priced home in Q2, up from 37% a year earlier. Locally, Spring posted one of the stronger affordability rates in the region at 45%, with a median home price of $252,990. Monthly payments averaged about $1,980, and buyers needed a minimum annual income of $79,200, an increase of 4.3% from 2024.
In The Woodlands, affordability remained lower at 20%, with a median home price of $665,000 and monthly payments of $4,810. Buyers needed to earn at least $192,400 annually, down slightly from last year.
The Aldine Area emerged as one of the most affordable submarkets in North Houston, with 48% of households able to purchase a median-priced home at $240,000. That translated to a monthly payment of about $1,840 and a qualifying income of $73,600, down 1.1% year-over-year.
HAR Chair Shae Cottar noted, “While affordability challenges remain for many people, the Houston market is showing encouraging signs of balance. Mortgage rates have been edging lower and recently hit their lowest point since April, which could draw more prospective buyers into the market. At the same time, many remain cautious, with inflation playing a key role in their decisions.”
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Rental Affordability
HAR’s Rental Affordability Index showed that 46% of Houston-area renters could afford the average single-family home lease, which declined 4.1% year-over-year to $2,100 in Q2 2025. This required a minimum annual income of $84,000, providing more breathing room for households unable to buy.
Local Takeaways
While higher-end markets like The Woodlands continue to present barriers for entry-level buyers, areas such as Aldine and portions of Spring are offering more accessible pathways to homeownership. Aldine’s 48% affordability rate is bolstered by a combination of modest home prices, a diverse housing stock, and a location that balances proximity to employment centers with more budget-friendly living costs. In Spring, steady new construction has helped keep price growth moderate, giving buyers more options below the metro median.
Both areas have also benefited from the recent dip in mortgage rates — from 7.00% to 6.79% over the past year — which has translated into monthly savings that, for some households, make the difference between renting and owning. These affordability pockets are becoming increasingly important as more buyers expand their searches beyond high-cost zones, sometimes choosing longer commutes in exchange for lower payments and newer housing options.
Quick Facts — North Houston & Spring Q2 2025 Housing Market
- Spring: 45% affordability, $252,990 median price, $1,980 monthly payment.
- The Woodlands: 20% affordability, $665,000 median price, $4,810 monthly payment.
- Aldine Area: 48% affordability, $240,000 median price, $1,840 monthly payment.
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