Morning Business Report: Federal Reserve research shows fewer Americans own homes than previously thought

New Federal Reserve research suggests the share of American adults who own homes is significantly lower than the commonly cited homeownership rate.

(LILAMAX)- New Federal Reserve research suggests the share of American adults who own homes is significantly lower than the commonly cited homeownership rate.

The research estimates about 53% of U.S. adults own homes, compared with the roughly 65% homeownership rate traditionally reported by the U.S. Census Bureau.

The difference comes down to how homeownership is measured. The Census Bureau calculates the percentage of occupied housing units where the owner lives. For example, a married couple who owns a home with an adult son living with them counts as an owner-occupied household even though the son does not own the property.

Meanwhile, the Federal Reserve is expected to leave interest rates unchanged as its meeting gets underway today. Inflation remains above the Fed’s desired level, while volatile oil prices have added uncertainty about where inflation could head next.

On Wall Street, the Dow and S&P 500 finished Monday in positive territory. Falling oil prices provided a boost to several sectors, including airlines.

Cracker Barrel is also preparing for a leadership change. CEO Julie Masino is stepping down and will be replaced by former Bloomin’ Brands CEO David Deno on Aug. 10. Masino led changes to the restaurant chain’s menu and its folksy logo. Despite backlash over some of those decisions, the company’s business had recently shown signs of improvement.

And more Americans are turning to wellness retreats for their summer vacations. Kayak’s 2026 trends report found 66% of surveyed Gen Z and millennial travelers listed relaxation and a mental reset as top priorities.

The Global Wellness Institute projects wellness tourism will grow into a $1.4 trillion industry by 2029.