Queens Recorded High Foreclosure Risk in 2026

Queens homeowners faced significant cost burdens as the region showed elevated foreclosure risks.

Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Residential

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Nearly half of mortgaged homeowners in Queens spent over 30% of their income on housing in 2026, fueling high foreclosure risk. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Data from the 2026 New York Foreclosure Risk Index placed Queens as the county with the second-highest foreclosure risk in the state. Nearly half of all mortgaged homeowners in the area were spending more than 30% of their income on housing costs.

Why it matters

The elevated risk is primarily driven by a heavy mortgage cost burden, which impacts long-term household financial stability. High housing costs relative to income can leave families more vulnerable to economic shifts.

Queens homeowners contend with a 60.4 risk score, while 48.3% of mortgaged owners dedicate over 30% of income to housing. Across the state, six counties reported risk scores of at least 50, with homes in these regions taking over 70 days to sell.

The players

New York Foreclosure Risk Index

A standardized report that evaluates regional housing stability across the state based on economic and market indicators.

The details

Foreclosure scores are calculated by normalizing market softness, unemployment rates, 90-day mortgage delinquency, and mortgage cost burden. These figures are then scaled from 0 to 1 and multiplied by 100 to determine the final index. In Queens, these pressures are compounded by a slow market where 9.4% of current listings have already undergone price cuts.

Timeline

  1. The New York Foreclosure Risk Index was published in 2026.

The Home Front

The 2026 index reflects a broader trend of housing cost stress across major New York counties. This report mirrors documented struggles with household debt-to-income ratios that continue to shape the regional residential market.

Homeowners should review their monthly debt-to-income ratios to assess personal exposure to mortgage cost burdens. Consult with a qualified financial advisor to discuss options if housing costs are consistently exceeding recommended thresholds.

The takeaway

Maintaining a buffer for mortgage payments is critical during periods of high housing cost burdens. Keep track of local market trends and home equity status to proactively manage your long-term residential security.

Further reading

For more information on market shifts, read the latest reports in New York Residential.

Source note: This article includes information reported by QNS.

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