J.R. Wills, 27, and Aliana Randazzo, 25, tell CNBC Make It they chose to live in smaller spaces in order to save money.

Executives and officials say relatively moderate inflation, high infrastructure spending and digital developments are a boon; though many challenges remain.

Ford topped Hyundai after the South Korean automaker lost incentive of consumer tax credits up to $7,500 for buyers of its EVs.