US Homebuilder Sentiment Falls Again as High Costs and Tariffs Weigh on the Market
The housing market index fell to 36 in February as high material costs and labor shortages discouraged builders. Many buyers remain sidelined by high prices.
Insights:
The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)/Wells Fargo & Company Housing Market Index eased one point to 36 in February, according to data released on February 17, 2026. This reading missed the Reuters forecast of 38 expected by economists and signifies that the index has remained below the 50 break-even level for 22 straight months. This prolonged period of weakness reflects sustained soft sentiment among homebuilders in the US 
US as they navigate a challenging market environment.
US as they navigate a challenging market environment.
