Economic crises are often evaluated through national indicators such as unemployment, housing markets, and aggregate income measures. However, these measures may conceal important differences in how taxpayers at different stages of life experience economic disruption and recovery. This study examines how taxpayer outcomes varied across age groups before, during, and after two major economic disruptions: the 2008 housing crisis and the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic. Particular attention is given to younger adults entering the labor market and whether they experienced distinct recovery patterns compared to older taxpayers. Using publicly available Internal Revenue Service Statistics of Income data, the project analyzes age-based taxpayer outcomes across multiple years surrounding both crises. Variables include adjusted gross income, wages and salaries, investment income, capital gains, tax liability, and selected tax credits. The study compares changes in income composition and recovery trajectories across age groups to determine whether labor-dependent taxpayers experienced different outcomes than taxpayers with greater investment-related income. Quantitative analysis focuses on percentage changes from pre-crisis baselines, income source composition ratios, and patterns of recovery over time. By comparing taxpayer experiences across two distinct economic shocks, this research seeks to provide insight into how economic disruption affects age cohorts differently and whether younger taxpayers face unique challenges during recovery periods. The findings may contribute to broader discussions of economic opportunity, financial resilience, and generational differences in taxpayer outcomes while providing historical context for understanding the experiences of young adults entering today's workforce.

The United States housing market has experienced significant changes in recent years because of shifting economic conditions, housing affordability concerns, and changes in homebuyer behavior. This research examines factors that may be influencing homeownership trends and the residential housing market. The project draws on academic research, industry reports, housing market data, and other publicly available sources to explore recent developments within the housing industry. Particular attention is given to housing affordability, mortgage rates, housing supply, and changing homebuyer trends. Preliminary research suggests that economic and market conditions continue influencing who is able to purchase homes and how individuals navigate the housing market. The purpose of this project is to better understand current housing market trends and contribute to discussions surrounding housing affordability, access to homeownership, and the future of residential real estate in the United States.