With rising prices, global uncertainty, and constant economic chatter in the news, it’s natural for consumers and homeowners to wonder: Is a recession coming? And more importantly, should I be worried?
A local note. New Jersey’s housing supply has been constrained for years, which is the opposite of the condition that produced the last crash.
The good news? Most economic experts agree that a recession is not expected in the near future. In fact, several key indicators show that the U.S. economy remains resilient—and that’s especially reassuring for anyone thinking about buying or selling a home.
Here’s what the experts are watching and why they’re not sounding the alarm.
1. The Job Market Is Still Strong
One of the biggest signals economists use to predict a recession is employment. Historically, recessions are preceded by rising unemployment and widespread job losses.
Today, however:
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Job growth remains steady
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Unemployment is near long-term averages
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Businesses continue hiring across many sectors
A stable job market means consumer spending continues, which keeps the overall economy healthy and reduces recession risk.
2. Consumer Spending Is Holding Up
Despite inflation challenges, consumers are still spending on travel, entertainment, retail, and housing-related goods. Since consumer spending makes up nearly 70% of the U.S. economy, this steady activity is a strong buffer against downturns.
Economists say that as long as people keep spending—and they are—the likelihood of a recession stays low.
3. Inflation Is Cooling, and the Fed Is Adjusting
Inflation isn’t gone, but it has eased significantly from its peak. As a result, the Federal Reserve has shifted from aggressive rate hikes to a more measured, data-driven approach.
This helps:
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Stabilize borrowing costs
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Support homebuyer activity
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Boost business confidence
When inflation becomes more predictable, the economy becomes more stable—and experts see that trend continuing.
4. Corporate Earnings Are Solid
Another key recession indicator is how businesses are performing. Right now, many companies across major sectors are reporting healthy earnings, forecasting growth, and continuing to invest.
Strong corporate performance signals:
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Confidence in the economy
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Continued employment stability
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A reduced likelihood of recession
5. Housing Remains a Source of Strength
Contrary to recession fears, the housing market continues to show resilience:
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Home prices remain stable or rising in most markets
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Buyer demand is strong, especially with population and household growth
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Inventory remains lower than historical norms
Experts agree: the housing market is not showing recession-level weakness. In fact, it’s one of the sectors helping keep the economy balanced.
So, Should You Be Worried About a Recession?
According to economists, analysts, and major financial institutions: No. While the economy may continue to adjust—something completely normal—there is no widespread expectation of a recession in the near term.
For buyers and sellers, this is encouraging news. If you’ve been putting off a move due to recession fears, now may be a good time to reconsider.
Thinking About Buying or Selling? Confidence Matters.
When you understand what experts are actually saying—not just the headlines—it becomes easier to make informed, confident decisions about your next step in real estate.
If you’d like personalized guidance on how today’s economic landscape impacts your move, I’m here to help

Shea Merritt is a licensed New Jersey real estate agent with eXp Realty, working with buyers and sellers across Middlesex, Monmouth, and Ocean counties. He grew up in Old Bridge. He writes here about the arithmetic behind a move: what a house would actually bring today, what the tax line does to a monthly payment, and how to compare offers on their terms rather than on the top number. If you are weighing a sale or a purchase, send him the address and he will run the numbers on it.