1. How has the housing affordability crisis impacted residents in North Carolina?

The housing affordability crisis in North Carolina has greatly impacted residents, particularly those in low-income and marginalized communities. Some ways in which residents have been affected include:

1. Limited Access to Affordable Housing: Due to high demand and rising housing costs, many residents are unable to find affordable housing options. This is especially difficult for those with lower incomes and limited resources, who may struggle to pay for rent or purchase a home.

2. Increasing Homelessness: As a result of unaffordable housing, homelessness has become a major issue in North Carolina. Many individuals and families are unable to afford stable housing and end up living on the streets or in temporary shelters.

3. Displacement: Rising housing costs can also lead to displacement of long-time residents, particularly in gentrifying areas. This can disrupt communities and cause financial strain for those forced to move.

4. Overcrowding: In order to address affordability concerns, many households resort to overcrowding by having extended family members or multiple families living in one unit. This can lead to health and safety issues as well as strain on resources.

5. Impact on Health and Well-being: The stress of struggling with housing affordability can take a toll on an individual’s physical and mental health, affecting their overall well-being.

6. Economic Consequences: High housing costs also have economic consequences for residents, such as having less disposable income for other essential needs like food, healthcare, education, etc.

7. Educational Disruption: Unstable or inadequate housing can have a negative impact on children’s education by causing frequent moves or lack of privacy needed for studying.

8. Racial Disparities: The housing affordability crisis disproportionately affects communities of color due to systemic inequities such as redlining and discriminatory policies.

Overall, the lack of affordable housing options has put a strain on residents’ finances, health, education opportunities, and overall quality of life in North Carolina.

2. What are the main contributing factors to housing unaffordability in North Carolina?

1. Population Growth: North Carolina has experienced rapid population growth over the past few decades, which has increased demand for housing and subsequently driven up prices.

2. Low Supply of Affordable Housing: There is a shortage of affordable housing units in many areas of North Carolina, particularly in urban centers and popular coastal regions. This shortage is due to a combination of factors, including limited land availability, restrictive zoning laws, and high construction costs.

3. Rising Cost of Construction: The cost of building new homes has been steadily increasing in recent years, making it more expensive for developers to build affordable housing units. This is due to factors such as rising land costs, labor shortages, and increases in the price of materials.

4. Lack of Government Investment: The state government has not allocated enough funding towards programs that promote affordable housing development or provide subsidies for low-income households to afford rent.

5. Inadequate Income Levels: Many families in North Carolina do not earn enough income to afford the high cost of housing. The state’s minimum wage is currently $7.25 per hour and the average hourly wage is only $18.05 per hour, making it difficult for low-income individuals and families to keep up with rising housing costs.

6. Gentrification: As neighborhoods become more desirable and property values increase, long-term residents may be priced out of their homes as landlords raise rents or developers buy up properties for higher-end developments.

7. High Property Taxes: Property taxes in North Carolina can be high compared to other states, making homeownership more expensive for both low- and moderate-income households.

8. Student Debt: With numerous universities and colleges in North Carolina, many graduates are burdened with student loan debt which can impact their ability to save for a down payment on a home.

9. Racial Disparities: Historically marginalized communities (such as Black and Hispanic populations) face additional challenges when it comes to accessing affordable housing due to systemic barriers and discrimination.

10. Lack of Government Subsidies: The state has limited programs in place that provide financial assistance or subsidies for low-income households to afford rent or homeownership, particularly in rural areas.

3. How does the median income in North Carolina compare to the cost of housing?

According to recent data from the US Census Bureau, the median household income in North Carolina is $53,855. In comparison, the median cost of a home in North Carolina is $176,479. This means that the median income in North Carolina is lower than the cost of housing, indicating that it may be challenging for some residents to afford a home.

4. What efforts are being made by the government to address housing affordability in North Carolina?

The state government of North Carolina has implemented various initiatives and policies to address housing affordability for its residents. These include:

1) The NC Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA) provides financing and programs to help individuals and families afford safe, decent, and affordable housing. These programs include down payment assistance, mortgage credit certificates, and loans for first-time homebuyers.
2) The NCHFA also offers the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit program, which encourages private developers to build or rehabilitate affordable rental housing by providing tax incentives.
3) The North Carolina Foreclosure Prevention Fund offers assistance to eligible homeowners who are struggling with mortgage payments due to job loss or other financial hardships.
4) The state provides funding for local governments to create affordable housing units through the Community Development Block Grant program.
5) The North Carolina Housing Trust Fund provides grants to nonprofit organizations and local governments for the development of affordable rental homes.
6) In 2021, the state legislature passed the “Expanding Housing Opportunities Act” which aims to increase access to affordable housing by providing incentives for the development of multi-family housing units and encouraging local governments to adopt policies that promote affordable housing.

Additionally, the state has taken steps to address systemic barriers to fair and equitable housing, such as establishing a Fair Housing Task Force and implementing programs focused on community development and revitalization in low-income areas.

5. Are there any specific areas or regions within North Carolina that have higher levels of housing unaffordability?

According to data from the National Low Income Housing Coalition, the most unaffordable areas of North Carolina are Durham-Chapel Hill, Raleigh, and Charlotte, with median home prices ranging from $248,300 to $297,400 and median rents ranging from $1,039 to $1,252. These areas also have high demand for affordable housing due to their growing population and job opportunities. Other areas with higher levels of housing unaffordability in North Carolina include Asheville, Wilmington, and Fayetteville.

However, it is important to note that housing affordability varies within regions and cities. For example, in the Charlotte area, while the city itself may have high levels of housing unaffordability, surrounding suburban areas may offer more affordable housing options. Additionally, rural areas in North Carolina may also face challenges with housing affordability due to limited job opportunities and economic resources.

Overall, accessibility to affordable housing can also differ based on income level and demographic factors such as race and ethnicity. Therefore, it is important to consider these specific factors when addressing the issue of housing unaffordability in North Carolina.

6. How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected the already existing housing affordability issues in North Carolina?

The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the existing housing affordability issues in North Carolina. Due to widespread job losses and economic uncertainty, many people have struggled to pay their rent or mortgage payments. This has led to an increase in eviction and foreclosure rates, further worsening the affordable housing shortage in the state.

The pandemic has also highlighted the disparities and inequalities in access to affordable housing for marginalized communities. Low-income households and communities of color have been disproportionately affected by the pandemic, facing higher rates of unemployment and housing instability. These already vulnerable populations are now facing even greater challenges in finding and maintaining affordable housing.

Additionally, the pandemic has put a strain on affordable housing programs and resources. Non-profit organizations and government agencies that provide support for affordable housing have experienced budget cuts and delays in funding due to the economic downturn caused by the pandemic.

Overall, the COVID-19 pandemic has amplified the urgency for addressing the long-standing issue of housing affordability in North Carolina, as it has made clear that safe, stable, and affordable housing is crucial for public health and well-being.

7. What percentage of individuals or families in North Carolina are considered “cost-burdened” when it comes to their housing expenses?

According to the United States Census Bureau, in 2019, approximately 30.6% of households in North Carolina were considered “cost-burdened,” meaning they spent more than 30% of their income on housing expenses. This percentage has decreased slightly from 32.6% in 2010.

8. Are there any programs or initiatives available in North Carolina to assist low-income residents with finding affordable housing?

Yes, there are several programs and initiatives available in North Carolina to assist low-income residents with finding affordable housing. These include:

1. Low-Income Housing Tax Credit Program (LIHTC): This program provides tax credits to developers and investors who offer affordable rental housing for low-income individuals and families.

2. North Carolina Housing Trust Fund: This fund provides grants, loans, and other financial assistance to develop affordable housing for low- and moderate-income households.

3. Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program: This federal program, administered by local public housing agencies, provides rental assistance to eligible low-income families, seniors, and individuals.

4. Homeownership Assistance Programs: These programs provide financial assistance to help low-income individuals and families purchase a home.

5. Rural Development Rental Assistance: Administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), this program offers rental subsidies for low-income individuals living in rural areas of North Carolina.

6. Non-Profit Affordable Housing Developers: There are various non-profit organizations in North Carolina that specialize in developing affordable housing for low-income residents.

7. Continuum of Care Homeless Assistance Program: This program provides resources for homeless prevention, emergency shelter, transitional housing, and permanent supportive housing services.

8. Affordable Housing Clearinghouse (AHC): AHC is a nonprofit organization that connects private sector resources with community needs to support affordable housing development in North Carolina.

9. Community Action Agencies (CAAs): CAAs provide a range of services including weatherization assistance, home repair programs, transportation, job training, child care assistance, energy bill payment assistance and more.

10. Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (VASH) Program: This program combines HUD’s Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher rental assistance with case management and clinical services provided by the VA to help homeless veterans find permanent housing solutions.

9. What impact does gentrification have on housing affordability in North Carolina communities?

Gentrification refers to the process of renovating and upgrading lower-income neighborhoods, resulting in an increase in property values and the displacement of long-time residents. This can have a significant impact on housing affordability in North Carolina communities.

One of the main effects of gentrification is the rising cost of housing. As property values increase, landlords often raise rents to match the market rates, making it difficult for low-income families to afford housing. In many cases, this leads to displacement as residents are forced to move out of their homes.

Gentrification can also lead to a decrease in affordable housing options. As investors and developers focus on higher-end properties and upscale developments, there is less incentive to create affordable housing units. This can further exacerbate the lack of affordable housing for low-income individuals and families.

Another impact of gentrification is the loss of community cohesion and social networks. When long-time residents are displaced from their neighborhoods, they may also lose access to familiar resources and support systems such as schools, healthcare facilities, and local businesses.

Additionally, gentrification can contribute to income inequality in a community. As wealthier residents move into previously lower-income neighborhoods, it can further widen the gap between socioeconomic classes.

Overall, gentrification has a negative impact on housing affordability in North Carolina communities. It can make it difficult for low-income residents to find affordable housing options, disrupt established communities, and widen economic disparities within a community. It is important for policies and strategies to be implemented that address these issues and promote equitable development that benefits all members of a community.

10. How does the lack of affordable housing affect job opportunities and economic growth within North Carolina?

The lack of affordable housing in North Carolina can have negative impacts on job opportunities and economic growth. Here are some ways it can affect the state’s economy:

1. Limited labor force: The lack of affordable housing can make it difficult for people to live and work in certain areas, leading to a limited labor force. This means that businesses may struggle to find workers, which can slow down productivity and economic growth.

2. Difficulty recruiting talent: Affordable housing is an important consideration for individuals when deciding where to work and live. If a state does not offer enough affordable housing options, it may be difficult for businesses to attract and retain top talent, hindering their growth potential.

3. Higher cost of living: When there is a shortage of affordable housing, people may need to spend more on housing costs, leaving less money for other expenses like food, transportation, and healthcare. This can lead to a higher overall cost of living and reduce consumer spending, which can negatively impact the state’s economy.

4. Impact on small businesses: The lack of affordable housing can also have a significant impact on small businesses. Small business owners may struggle to find employees who can afford to live in the area and may have difficulty finding affordable commercial space for their business operations.

5. Inequality in income distribution: The high demand for limited affordable housing options often leads to rising prices and competition among renters or homebuyers. This creates inequality in income distribution as middle- and low-income individuals are unable to afford suitable housing, while high-income individuals continue to benefit from rising property values.

6. Reduced economic mobility: Without access to affordable housing options in areas with better job opportunities, individuals may be stuck in lower-paying jobs due to limited options for relocation. This reduces economic mobility and makes it harder for people to improve their financial situation.

In summary, the lack of affordable housing affects job opportunities by limiting the available labor force and impacting recruitment efforts, and it can also hinder economic growth by increasing the cost of living, inequalities in income distribution, and reducing economic mobility. Therefore, addressing the issue of affordable housing is crucial for promoting a strong and thriving economy in North Carolina.

11. Are there any specific industries or sectors that are particularly affected by high housing costs in North Carolina?

The industries and sectors that are most affected by high housing costs in North Carolina include:

1. Education: Teachers and other education professionals often struggle to find affordable housing, especially in urban areas with high demand like Raleigh, Charlotte, and Asheville. This makes it difficult for schools to recruit and retain qualified educators.

2. Healthcare: The healthcare industry employs a large number of workers who earn modest salaries, such as nurses, home health aides, and medical assistants. These workers often have difficulty affording housing in cities where healthcare facilities are located.

3. Tourism/Hospitality: Many popular tourist destinations in North Carolina have a high cost of living, which makes it challenging for people who work in the tourism or hospitality industry to afford housing near their place of employment.

4. Technology: Cities like Raleigh and Durham have become hubs for the technology industry, attracting highly-paid workers who can afford high-priced homes. This has led to increased competition for limited housing options, driving up prices for everyone else.

5. Agriculture: Farmers and agricultural workers also face challenges with the high cost of housing in North Carolina, particularly in areas where land is expensive due to its proximity to cities or coastlines.

6. Construction Industry: The cost of building materials has risen significantly in recent years, making it more expensive to build new homes or apartments in North Carolina. This ultimately leads to higher prices for homebuyers or renters.

7. Small Businesses: Small business owners may struggle to find affordable commercial spaces or affordable housing for their employees, especially if they are located in popular urban areas with a higher cost of living.

8. Non-profit organizations: Many non-profit organizations rely on volunteers or low-wage employees who may not be able to afford the high cost of housing in North Carolina, making it difficult for these organizations to attract and retain talent.

9. Service Industry: Workers in the service industry often face low wages and an unstable job market, making it challenging for them to afford housing in areas with high living costs.

10. Government Employees: Federal, state, and local government employees may also face difficulty finding affordable housing in North Carolina, particularly near larger cities where their jobs are located.

11. Retirees: Many retirees choose to relocate to North Carolina because of its mild climate and attractive lifestyle, but high housing costs can make it difficult for them to afford housing on a fixed income.

12. What role do zoning laws and regulations play in addressing or exacerbating housing affordability issues in North Carolina?

Zoning laws and regulations can play a significant role in addressing or exacerbating housing affordability issues in North Carolina. Zoning is the process by which local governments regulate land use, including where and how different types of housing can be built. These regulations can greatly impact the cost and availability of housing in a given area.

On one hand, zoning laws can help address housing affordability by promoting the development of affordable housing. For example, inclusionary zoning mandates that a certain percentage of new developments must be designated as affordable for low-income households. This helps create more affordable options for those who may otherwise struggle to find suitable housing options.

However, zoning laws can also exacerbate housing affordability issues by limiting the type and density of housing that can be built in certain areas. Single-family zoning, for example, restricts the construction of multi-unit buildings and often leads to higher land and home prices. This can make it difficult for lower-income individuals and families to find affordable housing in desirable locations.

Furthermore, some localities have restrictive zoning laws that make it challenging or expensive for developers to build affordable or mixed-income housing projects. This limits the potential supply of affordable units and contributes to overall increases in housing costs.

In recent years, there has been a push to reform zoning laws in North Carolina and other states to increase access to affordable housing. This includes efforts to allow more high-density developments, reduce parking requirements, and streamline approval processes for affordable housing projects. These changes could help address affordability issues by increasing the supply of available housing options at different price points.

13. Is there a significant gap between the number of affordable homes needed and those currently available in North Carolina?

Yes, there is a significant gap between the number of affordable homes needed and those currently available in North Carolina. According to the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency, there are approximately 300,000 low-income households in the state that are severely cost-burdened, meaning they spend more than half of their income on housing expenses. However, there are only about 80,000 affordable rental units available for these households.

This gap is even larger for extremely low-income households (those making less than 30% of the area median income), as there are only about 30,000 affordable rental units available for them. This means that there is a shortage of about 270,000 affordable rental units for extremely low-income households in North Carolina.

Additionally, there is a shortage of affordable homes for sale. About 36% of renters in North Carolina have incomes that would allow them to afford homeownership but are unable to find or purchase an affordable home due to rising prices and limited supply.

Overall, there is a significant gap between the number of affordable homes needed and those currently available in North Carolina. This not only creates challenges for low-income households seeking safe and stable housing, but it also has broader implications for economic stability and growth within the state.

14. How do rental prices compare between urban and rural areas within North Carolina?

There are many factors that can affect rental prices, so it is difficult to make a general statement about the comparison between urban and rural areas in North Carolina. However, in general, rental prices tend to be higher in urban areas due to factors such as higher demand and cost of living.

According to data from Zillow, the median rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in North Carolina’s largest city, Charlotte, is $1,305 per month. In comparison, the median rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in a smaller town like Statesville is $704 per month.

It’s important to note that there are also variations within urban and rural areas. For example, certain neighborhoods or suburbs within a larger city may have significantly lower or higher rental prices compared to the overall average for that area.

In summary, while it can be said that rental prices tend to be higher in urban areas compared to rural areas in North Carolina, there can be significant variations within each category. It is best to research specific locations and compare prices when looking for rental properties.

15. Does homeownership contribute significantly to overall homeownership rates in North Carolina?

Yes, homeownership contributes significantly to overall homeownership rates in North Carolina. The current homeownership rate in North Carolina is around 62%, which includes both single-family and multi-family homes. Owning a home is a goal for many North Carolinians, and it is seen as a significant milestone in achieving the American Dream. Additionally, homeownership can provide stability and financial benefits, such as building equity and potential tax deductions. Overall, homeownership plays a crucial role in the housing market and economy of North Carolina.

16. Are there any unique challenges faced by certain demographics, such as seniors or young people, when it comes to finding affordable housing in North Carolina?

Yes, there are several unique challenges faced by certain demographics when it comes to finding affordable housing in North Carolina. These include:

1. Senior citizens: Many seniors face financial constraints as they may be living on fixed incomes, making it difficult for them to afford rising housing costs. Additionally, seniors may also have medical needs that require specific housing amenities or modifications, which can make finding affordable housing even more challenging.

2. Individuals with disabilities: People with disabilities often face barriers in accessing and affording appropriate housing. They may require special accommodations or modifications that are not available in all housing options, and they may be limited in their ability to work and earn income to support their housing expenses.

3. Young people: Finding affordable housing can be particularly difficult for young people who are just starting out in the workforce and may not have a stable income yet. Many also face significant student loan debt, which can make it even harder to afford rent or a mortgage.

4. Rural communities: Rural areas in North Carolina often have limited job opportunities and a high proportion of low-income households, making it difficult for residents to afford quality housing options.

5. Immigrants and non-English speakers: Immigrants and non-English speakers may face language barriers when searching for housing and may also encounter discrimination based on their immigration status or national origin.

6. Minorities: Minorities, particularly African Americans and Hispanics, tend to have lower incomes on average than white households, making it more challenging for them to afford adequate housing.

7. Single-parent households: Single parent households often struggle financially due to the burden of single-handedly supporting a family on one income, making it difficult for them to find affordable housing options that meet their family’s needs.

17. How do property taxes impact overall housing costs for residents of North Carolina?

Property taxes are a significant factor in overall housing costs for residents of North Carolina. These taxes are collected by local governments and go towards funding local services, such as schools, roads, police and fire departments, and more.

The amount of property tax owed is determined by the value of the property and the tax rate set by the local government. The higher the value of a property and the higher the tax rate, the more a resident will owe in property taxes.

In North Carolina, property taxes are comparatively low compared to other states. According to data from the Tax Foundation, North Carolina ranks 33rd in terms of average effective property tax rate, with an average rate of 0.86%.

However, even though North Carolina has relatively low property tax rates overall, they can still have a significant impact on overall housing costs for some residents. This is particularly true for homeowners with high-value properties or those living in an area with high property tax rates.

Additionally, while renters do not directly pay property taxes themselves, landlords often factor in these taxes when setting rent prices. This means that even renters may indirectly bear some of the burden of property taxes through higher rent costs.

Overall, while North Carolina may have lower property tax rates compared to other states, it is still an important consideration for residents when looking at housing costs.

18. Is there a correlation between high levels of homelessness and lack of affordable housing options in North Carolina?

There is a strong correlation between high levels of homelessness and lack of affordable housing options in North Carolina. The high cost of living, limited availability of low-income housing, and stagnant wages in many parts of the state make it difficult for individuals and families to find affordable housing. This leads to many people being unable to secure stable housing and becoming homeless.

According to the National Low Income Housing Coalition, North Carolina has a shortage of over 310,000 units of affordable rental homes for extremely low-income households. This means that many people are forced to spend a large portion of their income on rent, leaving little money for other basic necessities like food and healthcare.

In addition, rapid gentrification in cities like Charlotte and Asheville has led to an increase in housing costs, making it even more challenging for low-income individuals to find suitable housing. The lack of affordable housing also disproportionately affects marginalized communities such as people of color and those with disabilities.

Ultimately, the lack of affordable housing contributes significantly to the high levels of homelessness in North Carolina. Addressing this problem requires both increasing the supply of affordable housing and addressing underlying issues such as poverty and income inequality.

19. How do state laws and policies differ in addressing housing affordability compared to federal policies in North Carolina?

State and federal policies in North Carolina both aim to address housing affordability, but they differ in their approach and scope.

One key difference is that state laws and policies are more focused on addressing local and statewide issues related to housing affordability, while federal policies tend to have a broader reach and impact the entire country. For example, North Carolina state laws may specifically address affordable housing challenges faced by residents in certain cities or regions, while federal policies provide funding or resources for affordable housing programs nationwide.

Another difference is the level of involvement of state versus federal government in housing policy. Generally, states have more control over land use regulations, tax policies, and zoning laws that can directly impact the availability of affordable housing within their boundaries. On the other hand, federal policies tend to provide support and incentives for states to address their own unique housing challenges.

Additionally, state laws may offer more flexibility for local communities to design affordable housing strategies that meet their specific needs and priorities. These strategies may include zoning changes, tax incentives for developers, or public-private partnerships.

On the other hand, federal policies often rely on standardized guidelines and eligibility requirements for affordable housing programs. This can limit options for local governments and organizations to tailor solutions according to their respective communities’ needs.

Overall, while both state and federal policies play a role in addressing housing affordability in North Carolina, they differ in focus, scope, and level of involvement. Collaborative efforts between different levels of government are necessary to effectively tackle this complex issue.

20. What steps can be taken at the state level to make housing more affordable for residents of North Carolina without putting strain on local economies?

1. Increase funding for affordable housing programs: State governments can allocate more funds towards affordable housing programs, such as tax credits, low-interest loans, and grants to developers of affordable housing.

2. Provide incentives for developers: States can offer a tax break or other incentives to developers who build affordable housing units in areas with high demand.

3. Encourage mixed-income developments: State governments can encourage the development of mixed-income communities to increase the availability of affordable housing options while also maintaining diversity in neighborhoods.

4. Implement inclusionary zoning policies: These policies require developers to reserve a certain percentage of new units for low-income households in exchange for development rights or financial incentives.

5. Streamline building regulations: State governments can review and remove unnecessary restrictions and delays in the approval process for new construction projects, making it easier and less costly for developers to build new affordable housing units.

6. Provide property tax relief: Residents who have been living in their homes for a long time may face challenges due to rising property taxes. States can implement programs that provide property tax relief for long-term homeowners, particularly those on fixed incomes.

7. Offer down payment assistance programs: Many low- and moderate-income families struggle with saving for a down payment on a home. State governments can offer programs that provide financial assistance with down payments, making homeownership more attainable.

8. Address vacant properties: Vacant properties are often eyesores and pose safety hazards in many communities. States could provide funding to redevelop these properties into affordable housing units.

9. Utilize state-owned land: The state government can utilize its owned land by leasing it out at below-market rates or partnering with developers to create affordable housing units on public lands.

10. Support voucher programs: Voucher programs like Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) help low-income families afford decent, safe, and sanitary rental housing within the private market. States could allocate additional funds to these programs to help more families.

11. Collaborate with local governments: State and local governments can work together to create affordable housing plans and identify areas where new affordable housing units could be built.

12. Explore alternative housing options: States could explore alternative, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly housing options such as tiny homes, co-housing communities, or manufactured or modular homes.

13. Address discriminatory practices in the housing market: States can strengthen fair housing laws and enforcement to prevent discrimination against low-income and minority populations seeking affordable housing options.

14. Provide education and counseling for potential homebuyers: Many potential homebuyers, particularly first-time buyers, may not have sufficient knowledge about the home buying process. States can provide educational resources and counseling services to prepare individuals for homeownership.

15. Implement landlord incentives: To encourage landlords to offer affordable rental units, states could offer tax breaks or other financial incentives for participating in government-assisted rental programs.

16. Increase the minimum wage: A higher minimum wage would allow workers to afford decent rental housing without having to spend a disproportionate amount of their income on rent.

17. Expand public transportation: Access to reliable public transportation can make it easier for low-income residents to access job opportunities in different areas with lower-cost housing options.

18. Address homelessness: Homelessness is a significant issue contributing to the lack of affordable housing options. States can invest in homelessness prevention programs and provide funding for emergency shelters, transitional housing, and supportive services for homeless individuals and families.

19. Monitor gentrification effects: As neighborhoods become more desirable due to economic growth or redevelopment projects, rents and property values tend to increase, making them unaffordable for current residents. The state should monitor these changes closely and implement policies that mitigate displacement of low-income residents.

20. Evaluate regulations on short-term rentals: Short-term rental platforms like Airbnb have been known to drive up rental prices in popular cities and vacation destinations by reducing the available long-term housing supply. States can review and regulate these platforms to protect local affordable housing markets.