Impact of Government Shutdown on Major Purchases: A Deep Dive into Redfin's Latest Survey

In a recent survey commissioned by Redfin, a technology-driven real estate brokerage that is part of Rocket Companies (NYSE: RKT), nearly half of Americans (45%) reported that the ongoing federal government shutdown has made them less likely to make major purchases, such as homes or cars. This figure has significantly increased from 21% in early October, reflecting growing consumer anxiety as the shutdown continues to disrupt economic stability.

The survey, conducted by Ipsos on November 3-4, 2025, involved 1,005 U.S. residents and offers a comprehensive look at how the government shutdown is affecting consumer behavior and financial outlooks during this uncertain economic climate.

The survey reveals a troubling trend among American consumers, with the most significant increase occurring among those who are "much less likely" to make a major purchase, rising from 14% to 28%. Additionally, 17% of respondents indicated they are "a little less likely" to proceed with such purchases, compared to 8% a month prior.

Interestingly, just over half (51%) of those surveyed claimed that the shutdown has not altered their purchasing plans, although this is a decline from 64% in early October, indicating a shift in sentiment.

The impact of the government shutdown extends beyond hesitation in major purchases. Almost half (46%) of Americans report that the shutdown is negatively affecting their lives, with 16% stating it has a major negative impact. This rising concern correlates with the economic forecast from the Congressional Budget Office, which estimates the shutdown could potentially cost the U.S. economy up to $14 billion and slow growth by as much as two percentage points if it persists through the end of November.

The survey also highlights financial strain among Americans, with 35% reporting they are worse off financially due to the shutdown. This includes 12% who feel they are "much worse" and 24% who indicate they are "a little worse." Conversely, 61% say the shutdown has had no effect on their financial situation.

Among respondents with monthly housing payments, 7% have missed a payment in the past three months, and 13% have been late. Alarmingly, 14% of these individuals anticipate being late on a payment in the next three months, while 10% expect to miss a payment entirely.

When asked about the reasons behind missed or late housing payments, 34% cited a decrease in income or income delays as the primary factor. Emergency expenses or unexpected costs (28%) and increased debt or credit obligations (26%) followed closely behind. Notably, 32% of respondents who have missed or been late on payments attribute the government shutdown as a direct cause of their financial difficulties.

The survey also sheds light on broader job security concerns in the face of economic uncertainty. Nearly 33% of surveyed workers expressed worries about their job security, a figure that has remained relatively stable since August. Major layoffs from prominent companies, including Amazon and UPS, have highlighted potential vulnerabilities in the job market, contributing to this unease.

Among those who feel insecure, the most commonly cited reasons for concern include tariffs (21%) and government restructuring (20%), indicating that external economic factors are affecting workforce confidence.

As the effects of the government shutdown ripple through the economy, the findings from Redfin's latest survey underscore a growing reluctance among consumers to make significant financial commitments. With nearly half of Americans feeling the pinch and concerns about the future of job security looming large, the economic landscape remains precarious. The data highlights a crucial moment for policymakers, businesses, and consumers alike as they navigate these challenging times.

For more insights and detailed data on housing market trends, visit Redfin.com/news.