How long does it take to save up for a starter home? Twice as long as it did in 2019 / WKKY Country 104.7 Jennifer Ludden Oct 22, 2026 | 5:00 AM A new analysis finds that the average renter household now needs 16 years to save for a down payment and closing costs. Rising rents and other costs have consumed a growing share of household budgets. (Image credit: Justin Sullivan)