The higher interest rates are felt much more in states like Iowa, due to the insane cost of property taxes (1.5%). If you live in a state like TN or AL, for instance, you're paying around 0.4% of assessed value. So, buying now with the highest interest rates is more easily digested because within a few years, you'll very likely be able to refinance for a much lower APR. Personally, I've very heavily considered moving to TN for not only this reason, but because of the absence of state income taxes. It's insane how expensive it is to live right now.