National house prices reached a new historical peak in May 2026, according to the First American Data & Analytics Home Price Index, despite annual appreciation remaining below 1 percent for the ninth consecutive month. The index rose 0.3 percent from April and 0.7 percent from a year earlier, with the April monthly gain revised up to 0.5 percent. Chief Economist Mark Fleming said the record reflects cumulative small monthly gains rather than rapid acceleration, as limited supply continues to provide upward pressure on home values. Among metropolitan areas, Chicago posted the strongest annual growth at 6.2 percent, while Denver saw the largest decline at 2.5 percent. The luxury tier remained more resilient than starter and mid-tier segments, supported by wealth gains and housing equity among higher-income households.
First American CorporationThe article reports that national house prices reached a new high, which is positive for First American's title insurance and settlement services business as higher home prices and transaction volumes drive demand.