Minority homeowners face higher climate risks
Minority homeowners are particularly vulnerable to certain major climate risks, a Zillow analysis finds.
Why it matters: The findings reflect history and a legacy of redlining and economic disparities that still shape where people live — and how they're affected by climate change.
By the numbers: Nationally, 81% of Black homeowners, 77% of Hispanic homeowners and 65% of Asian homeowners are at risk of extreme heat, compared to 52% of white homeowners, Zillow found.
Meanwhile, 60% of Black homeowners, 43% of Hispanic homeowners and 33% of Asian homeowners are vulnerable to extreme wind, compared to 32% of white homeowners.
Some 32% of Asian homeowners and 21% of Hispanic homeowners are vulnerable to poor air quality, compared to 11% of white homeowners and 9% of Black homeowners.
How it works: Zillow's analysis is based in part on climate risk data for homes listed for sale on the platform, using risk modeling techniques from First Street.
It doesn't include renters, who also face various climate risks.
See the full methodology here.
Between the lines: Some of the nationwide figures are a result of history and geography, says Zillow senior economist Kara Ng.
For example: Black homeownership rates are higher in the South, she points out, where extreme heat is more common compared to other regions.
Zoom in: Some cities have especially stark differences between groups for certain climate risks.
In New Orleans, for example, about 95% of Asian homeowners, 92% of Black homeowners and 86% of Hispanic homeowners are vulnerable to flooding, compared to 76% of white homeowners.
The bottom line: Climate risk is making homeownership more expensive due to rising insurance, energy and repair costs, Ng notes in her analysis — adding that vulnerable homes often take longer to sell and go for less money.
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