Housing affordability has been at the forefront of national discussions, as average home prices have risen significantly across the U.S. in recent years. Many stories have highlighted sharp price increases in large cities such as New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. However, less data is readily available to determine whether prices have increased nationwide or only in some areas. It is also unclear to what degree, if any, incomes have kept pace with higher home prices. In this brief, we examine trends in home prices and incomes across a range of urban and rural communities. What areas of the country are experiencing the greatest impact from rising home prices? Are there communities where increased incomes have kept pace with home prices?

Reforming health-care has been a perennial goal of American politicians. Many of these attempts have fallen short. Why is expanding access, improving care, and keeping costs down so hard? This brief provides an overview of the main issues. Subsequent briefs will address specific programs and proposals.

Since the COVID pandemic, official reports show strong job growth in America. However, jobs data released in mid-2024 led some financial analysts to argue that much of the increase was due to hiring by the federal government. If this is true, then the apparent strength of the American economy does not reflect actual business conditions. Rather, it is the result of federal government actions that artificially create the illusion of economic strength.