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

The housing affordability crisis has impacted residents in Missouri in various ways:

1. High Housing Costs: The cost of housing has skyrocketed in Missouri, especially in cities like St. Louis and Kansas City. This has made it difficult for low- and middle-income families to afford decent housing, forcing them to make difficult choices between paying for rent or other basic needs.

2. Homelessness: The high cost of housing has contributed to a rise in homelessness in Missouri. Many families and individuals cannot afford to pay for rent, leading them to become homeless or live in overcrowded and unsafe conditions.

3. Poverty: The lack of affordable housing options has also increased the poverty rate in Missouri. Families are forced to spend a large portion of their income on housing, leaving little money for other essential expenses like food, healthcare, and education.

4. Displacement: As property values increase, many long-time residents are being pushed out of their neighborhoods due to rising rents or being unable to afford a mortgage. This displacement can disrupt communities and cause social and economic instability.

5. Reduced Economic Mobility: Affordability issues have also hindered people’s ability to move up the economic ladder. Many are not able to save enough money to buy a home or invest in other wealth-generating opportunities due to the high cost of living.

6. Adverse Health Effects: The lack of affordable housing can have significant impacts on physical and mental health. When individuals are forced to live in overcrowded, unsafe, or unhealthy conditions due to unaffordable housing options, it can lead to various health issues.

7. Generational Impact: The housing affordability crisis has an intergenerational impact as well by limiting children’s access to quality education, safe neighborhoods, and stable living situations.

Overall, the high cost of housing is exacerbating existing inequalities and placing a significant financial burden on many Missouri residents who are struggling to keep a roof over their heads.

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

1. Increase in housing costs: One of the main contributing factors to housing unaffordability in Missouri is the increase in housing costs, particularly in urban areas. This can be attributed to a variety of reasons, including high demand for housing due to population growth and limited supply of affordable housing units.

2. Low wages: Many Missourians are employed in jobs that pay low wages, which makes it difficult for them to afford decent housing. According to data from the National Low Income Housing Coalition, a full-time minimum wage worker in Missouri would need to work 77 hours per week to afford a two-bedroom apartment at fair market rent.

3. Lack of affordable housing options: There is a shortage of affordable housing options in many parts of Missouri, especially in urban areas where there is high demand for housing. This results in bidding wars for available units, driving up prices and making it difficult for low-income individuals and families to find affordable homes.

4. Gentrification: The process of gentrification, where neighborhoods undergo redevelopment and attract wealthier residents, can also contribute to housing unaffordability by driving up property values and rents. This can push out longtime residents who can no longer afford to live in their neighborhoods.

5. Zoning regulations: Strict zoning regulations that limit the types of housing that can be built or restrict development can also contribute to affordability issues. This is because they limit the supply of new housing units, which drives up prices.

6. Insufficient government support: There has been a decline in federal funding for affordable housing programs over the years, making it more difficult for low-income individuals and families to access subsidized housing options.

7. Student debt: In Missouri, many young adults graduate with significant student loan debt, which makes it challenging for them to save for a down payment on a home or qualify for a mortgage.

8. Racial disparities: There are significant racial disparities when it comes to housing affordability in Missouri. For example, African American and Hispanic households are more likely to experience housing cost burdens than White households.

9. Natural disasters: Missouri is prone to natural disasters such as floods, tornadoes, and earthquakes, which can damage or destroy homes and make it difficult for residents to afford repairs or find alternative housing options.

10. Income inequality: The growing income inequality in Missouri means that those at the bottom of the income ladder have a harder time affording decent housing. This is compounded by the fact that wages have not kept up with the rising cost of living in many parts of the state.

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

The median household income in Missouri is slightly lower than the national average, but the cost of housing in Missouri is also lower than the national average. In 2020, the median household income in Missouri was $57,409 and the median home value was $168,629. This means that Missourians generally have a decent amount of income to cover their housing costs and may potentially have more affordable housing options compared to other states. However, it’s important to note that the cost of living and housing can vary greatly within different regions and cities in Missouri.

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

The Missouri government has implemented several measures to address housing affordability in the state. These include:

1. Development Incentives: The state offers various incentives and tax credits to developers who build affordable housing units or revitalize existing properties.

2. Housing Trust Fund: The Missouri Housing Development Commission (MHDC) runs a Housing Trust Fund that provides grants and loans for the development of affordable housing projects across the state.

3. Low-Income Housing Tax Credit Program: Through this program, the MHDC distributes federal tax credits to developers who build or rehabilitate rental housing for low-income households.

4. First-Time Home Buyer Programs: The state offers various programs, such as the Mortgage Revenue Bond Program and Down Payment Assistance Program, to help first-time homebuyers with down payments and closing costs.

5. Rental Assistance Programs: The Missouri Department of Social Services administers rental assistance programs, such as the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program, to help low-income families afford safe and decent housing.

6. Homeless Prevention Initiatives: The state has implemented various programs to prevent homelessness and provide affordable shelter options for homeless individuals, including Rapid Rehousing and Supportive Services for Veteran Families.

7. Affordable Housing Preservation: To preserve existing affordable housing units, the MHDC provides financial assistance through its Preservation Loan program and also offers technical support to property owners for maintenance and repairs.

8. Affordable Rental Market Studies: Regular market studies are conducted by the MHDC to assess the demand for affordable rental units in different regions of the state. This information is used to guide policy decisions on prioritizing resources for developing new affordable housing units.

9. Land Banking Programs: Some cities in Missouri have adopted land banking programs that acquire vacant or abandoned properties at a lower cost for future development of affordable housing units.

10. Public-Private Partnerships: The state encourages public-private partnerships between local governments, developers, and non-profit organizations to increase the supply of affordable housing in high-need areas.

Overall, Missouri’s efforts to address housing affordability aim to provide safe, decent, and affordable housing options for low-income families and individuals while promoting economic growth and community development.

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

While housing affordability is an issue throughout the state of Missouri, there are certain regions and cities that have higher levels of unaffordable housing. These include:

1. St. Louis: The city of St. Louis has one of the highest rates of unaffordable housing in Missouri, with over 48% of households considered cost-burdened (spending more than 30% of their income on housing).

2. Kansas City: Like St. Louis, Kansas City also has a high rate of unaffordable housing, with over 40% of households considered cost-burdened.

3. Rural areas: While urban areas tend to have higher levels of unaffordable housing, rural areas in Missouri also face challenges in terms of affordable housing options and access to affordable homeownership.

4. Columbia: The city of Columbia also has a relatively high rate of unaffordable housing, with nearly 50% of renters and almost 30% of homeowners spending more than 30% of their income on housing.

5. Springfield: With a growing population and limited affordable housing options, Springfield has seen an increase in demand for affordable rental units and home ownership opportunities.

6. Boone County: Boone County, home to the University of Missouri, has experienced significant increases in home prices and rent costs in recent years, leading to affordability challenges for residents.

7. Southeast Missouri: High poverty rates in this region make it challenging for many residents to afford adequate and safe housing.

Overall, these regions represent a combination of factors including population growth, limited availability and supply of affordable housing units, and low wages that contribute to the current state-wide issue

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

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly worsened the housing affordability issues in Missouri. Here are some ways in which it has had an impact:

1. Loss of Income: Many people have lost their jobs or experienced reduced income due to the pandemic, making it difficult for them to afford their rent or mortgage payments.

2. Evictions: With the economic impact of the pandemic, there has been a rise in eviction notices and landlords seeking to evict tenants who cannot afford their rent.

3. Increase in Demand for Affordable Housing: The pandemic has also resulted in a higher demand for affordable housing as people seek smaller and more affordable living spaces due to financial constraints.

4. Supply Shortages: The construction of new affordable housing units has been delayed or halted due to lockdowns and supply chain disruptions, exacerbating the existing shortage of affordable housing in Missouri.

5. Increased Homelessness: With the economic impacts of the pandemic, many individuals and families have become homeless or at risk of homelessness as they struggle to keep up with housing costs.

6. Inequities Exposed: The pandemic has highlighted existing inequities in access to affordable housing, with low-income communities and communities of color being disproportionately affected.

7. Limited Government Resources: The increased need for affordable housing during the pandemic has strained government resources, making it difficult to address the issue effectively.

Overall, the COVID-19 pandemic has further amplified and brought attention to the pressing issue of housing affordability in Missouri.

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

According to a 2019 report by the National Low Income Housing Coalition, 47% of renters in Missouri are considered “cost-burdened,” meaning they spend more than 30% of their income on housing expenses. The same report also found that 23% of renters in Missouri are considered “severely cost-burdened,” meaning they spend more than 50% of their income on housing expenses.

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

Yes, there are several programs and initiatives available in Missouri to assist low-income residents with finding affordable housing.

1. Low Income Housing Tax Credit Program: This program provides tax credits to developers who create affordable rental housing for low-income families and individuals. The program is administered by the Missouri Housing Development Commission (MHDC).

2. Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program: This program, also administered by MHDC, provides rental assistance to eligible low-income families, seniors, and persons with disabilities.

3. Homelessness Prevention Program: This program helps households facing eviction or homelessness to find and maintain stable housing. It is administered by local Community Action Agencies (CAAs) throughout the state.

4. HOME Investment Partnerships Program: This federal program provides grants to states and localities to fund affordable housing projects, including rental assistance, rehabilitation of existing units, and new construction.

5. Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG): Administered by the Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS), this program provides financial assistance and services to prevent homelessness or rapidly re-house homeless individuals and families.

6. Missouri Affordable Housing Assistance Program: This program offers financial assistance through grants for down payment or closing costs to first-time homebuyers with moderate incomes.

7. Public Housing Programs: In partnership with local public housing agencies, DSS administers public housing units for families, seniors, people with disabilities, and non-elderly singles without dependents.

8. USDA Rural Development Rental Assistance Program: For residents in rural areas in Missouri that are considered low-income but are ineligible for other types of federal rental assistance programs, USDA’s multifamily rental housing portfolio may be an affordable option.

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

Gentrification can have both positive and negative impacts on housing affordability in Missouri communities.

Positive impact:

1. Improved Housing Stock: Gentrification often involves the renovation and restoration of older properties, making them more desirable for residents. This can lead to an increase in the overall quality of housing stock in the community.

2. Increase in Property Values: As property values rise, homeowners who have lived in the community for a long time may see an increase in their home equity. This could provide them with more financial stability and potentially make it easier for them to afford their current housing or move to a different location if necessary.

3. Creation of Affordable Housing Units: In some cases, gentrification can lead to the construction of new affordable housing units as developers are required to set aside a certain percentage of units as affordable as part of their development projects.

Negative impact:

1. Displacement: The most significant impact gentrification has on housing affordability is that it can force low-income residents out of their neighborhoods as property values and rents increase. These residents may not be able to afford the rising costs and end up being displaced to more affordable areas.

2. Limited Supply of Affordable Housing: As more affluent residents move into a gentrifying neighborhood, landlords may be motivated to raise rents or sell their properties, leading to a decrease in the supply of affordable housing options.

3. Rising Cost of Living: Along with increased property values and rents, gentrification can also bring about higher prices for goods and services in the area, making it challenging for lower-income residents to afford basic necessities like groceries or healthcare.

4. Widening Wealth Gap: Gentrification can contribute to widening income disparities in a community as low-income residents are pushed out, creating homogenous socio-economic neighborhoods.

In summary, while gentrification may bring improvements to a community, it can also have adverse effects on housing affordability for low-income residents. Therefore, it is essential for policymakers to address these issues and implement strategies to ensure that housing remains affordable for all residents in gentrifying neighborhoods.

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

The lack of affordable housing in Missouri can have a significant impact on job opportunities and economic growth in the following ways:

1. Worker Mobility: Without access to affordable housing, workers may struggle to move or relocate for new job opportunities. This can limit their ability to find better-paying jobs and hinder overall workforce mobility within the state.

2. Labor Force Participation: The high cost of housing can also discourage individuals from participating in the workforce or cause them to drop out of the workforce altogether. This decreases the availability of skilled workers and can lead to labor shortages, hindering economic growth.

3. Recruitment Difficulties: Employers may also struggle to attract and retain talented employees if there is a lack of affordable housing options in the area. This can make it difficult for businesses to grow and expand, ultimately impacting the state’s economic growth.

4. Rising Housing Costs: The lack of affordable housing can drive up housing costs, making it more expensive for businesses to operate and for workers to live close to their workplaces. This could result in decreased disposable income for residents, reducing their purchasing power and negatively impacting local businesses’ sales.

5. Increased Commuting Costs: Individuals who are unable to afford housing near their workplace may have no choice but to commute long distances every day, resulting in high transportation costs. This not only affects individuals’ finances but also has environmental repercussions, as longer commutes lead to increased emissions and traffic congestion.

6. Difficulty Attracting Business Investment: Companies interested in investing in Missouri’s economy may be deterred by the lack of affordable housing options for their employees. This could result in companies choosing other states with more accessible housing markets, depriving Missouri’s economy of potential business investments.

7. Negative Impact on Workforce Diversity: The lack of affordable housing can disproportionately affect low-income households, leading to reduced socio-economic diversity within certain regions or communities within Missouri. A less diverse workforce could limit innovation, creativity, and potentially harm businesses that rely on diverse perspectives for success.

In conclusion, the lack of affordable housing in Missouri can limit job opportunities, decrease workforce participation, hinder business growth and investment, and create economic disparities within the state. It is crucial for policymakers to address this issue and promote affordable housing initiatives to support a thriving economy in Missouri.

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

There are several industries and sectors in Missouri that are particularly affected by high housing costs. These include:

1. Healthcare: The healthcare industry is one of the largest employers in Missouri, and many healthcare workers such as nurses, medical technicians, and physical therapists struggle to afford housing due to their relatively low salaries.

2. Tourism and hospitality: With popular tourist destinations like Branson and the Lake of the Ozarks, the tourism industry is a major contributor to Missouri’s economy. However, many employees in this sector work seasonal or part-time jobs with lower wages, making it difficult for them to secure affordable housing.

3. Education: Teachers and other school staff members often face high housing costs, especially in urban areas like St. Louis and Kansas City.

4. Agriculture: Missouri is a major agricultural state, but many farmers struggle with high land prices and lack of affordable housing options in rural areas.

5. Construction trades: The rising cost of housing can also affect workers in the construction industry who may find it difficult to afford homes near job sites.

6. Retail and service industries: Workers in these sectors often have lower paying jobs and are more likely to be affected by high housing costs, especially those living paycheck to paycheck.

7. Start-ups and small businesses: High housing costs can make it challenging for new businesses or small start-ups to attract top talent or expand their operations.

8. Social services: Those who work in social service agencies such as social workers or counselors may also face difficulties finding affordable housing on their salaries.

9. Government employees: Many government employees such as police officers, firefighters, and municipal workers may find it challenging to afford homes in certain areas.

10. Students: University students attending schools in cities like St. Louis or Kansas City may struggle with high rental prices near campus.

11. Retirees: Retirees living on a fixed income may also be impacted by high housing costs if they do not have savings or investments to supplement their income.

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

Zoning laws and regulations play a significant role in addressing and exacerbating housing affordability issues in Missouri. Zoning laws regulate the use, density, and design of land within a particular area. These laws can impact the availability, type, and cost of housing in certain neighborhoods.

Zoning can address housing affordability by designating areas for high-density developments, such as apartments or townhouses, which can provide more affordable options for renters or first-time homebuyers. Zoning regulations can also set requirements for developers to include a certain percentage of affordable units in their projects.

However, zoning regulations can also contribute to housing affordability issues. In some cases, strict zoning regulations may limit the development of affordable housing options and increase the cost of homes due to limited supply. Additionally, exclusionary zoning practices, such as minimum lot sizes and prohibitions on multifamily housing, can create barriers for low-income individuals and families looking for affordable housing.

In Missouri, local jurisdictions have significant control over their zoning laws and regulations. This decentralized approach allows each community to tailor their policies to their specific needs but can also lead to inconsistency and inequity across the state. Some cities have taken steps to update their zoning codes to promote more affordable housing options, while others have maintained more restrictive regulations that contribute to affordability challenges.

Overall, zoning laws and regulations play a crucial role in addressing or exacerbating housing affordability issues in Missouri. It is essential for local governments to carefully consider the impact of their zoning decisions on accessibility and affordability for all residents when making land use plans and implementing zoning policies.

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

Yes, there is a significant gap between the number of affordable homes needed and those currently available in Missouri. According to data from the National Low Income Housing Coalition, there are only 42 affordable and available rental homes for every 100 extremely low-income households (earning 30% or less of area median income) in Missouri. This means that there is a shortage of 163,790 affordable and available rental homes for this population in the state. Additionally, there is also a shortage of affordable homes for middle-income earners, as housing costs continue to rise faster than incomes in many areas of Missouri. This shortage affects not only individuals and families struggling with poverty, but also essential workers such as teachers, healthcare workers, and first responders who may have difficulty finding affordable housing options.

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

It is difficult to provide an accurate comparison of rental prices between urban and rural areas within Missouri without specific locations and types of rentals being specified. Generally, rental prices tend to be higher in urban areas due to higher demand for housing and amenities such as public transportation, while rural areas may have lower rental prices due to a smaller pool of potential tenants and less access to services. However, there can be variations within each category depending on location and other factors. It is recommended to research specific cities or towns within Missouri for more accurate pricing information.

15. Does homeownership contribute significantly to overall homeownership rates in Missouri?

Yes, homeownership plays a significant role in overall homeownership rates in Missouri. According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the homeownership rate in Missouri was 69.6% in 2019, which is slightly higher than the national average of 63.1%. Homeownership contributes to this rate as it particularly affects individuals and families who are looking to establish roots and create stability for themselves. Additionally, homeownership can also drive economic growth by creating jobs and increasing consumer spending, which can further contribute to overall homeownership rates in the state.

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

Yes, there are unique challenges faced by certain demographics when it comes to finding affordable housing in Missouri.

– Seniors: Seniors often face financial difficulties due to limited income sources and rising healthcare costs. As a result, finding affordable housing options can be difficult for them. Additionally, many seniors may have specific physical or medical needs that require specialized accommodations, which may not be available in all affordable housing units.

– Young people: Many young people, including college students and recent graduates, struggle with finding affordable housing in Missouri. Due to limited job opportunities and lower salaries, they may not have the means to afford high rental prices. Additionally, young people may lack credit history or steady employment, making it challenging for them to qualify for rental applications.

– Immigrants: In Missouri, immigrants also face difficulty accessing affordable housing. Language barriers and lack of documentation can make it difficult for them to understand rental agreements or provide required documents for applications. Discrimination based on race or national origin can also result in fewer housing opportunities for immigrant communities.

– Rural residents: People living in rural areas often face challenges in finding affordable housing due to limited options and low incomes. The lack of public transportation and distance from urban centers can also increase transportation costs and limit job opportunities.

– Persons with disabilities: People with disabilities may encounter barriers when searching for affordable housing in Missouri. Limited accessibility features and discrimination based on disability can further restrict their options. The cost of modifications or reasonable accommodations can also make affordable housing out of reach for some individuals with disabilities.

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

Property taxes can significantly impact overall housing costs for residents of Missouri. Property taxes are a major source of revenue for local governments, including counties, cities, and school districts. These taxes are used to fund various services, such as schools, libraries, police and fire protection, road maintenance, and other municipal services.

The amount of property tax a resident pays is typically based on the assessed value of their property. The assessed value is determined by local assessors using information such as property size, location, and improvements. The tax rate is then applied to this assessed value to calculate the annual property tax bill.

In Missouri, the statewide average effective property tax rate (property tax as a percentage of home value) is 0.95%. However, the actual amount paid in property taxes varies greatly depending on location. For example, some areas may have higher rates due to additional local levies or bond measures.

Additionally, various exemptions and credits may be available to lower property taxes for certain groups such as seniors or individuals with disabilities. In general, younger homeowners or those who recently purchased a home may see larger increases in their property tax bills due to rising home values.

Overall, property taxes can increase housing costs for residents of Missouri by several hundred dollars per year or more depending on the location and assessed value of their home. It’s important for potential homeowners to consider these costs when budgeting for homeownership in Missouri.

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

Yes, there is a correlation between high levels of homelessness and lack of affordable housing options in Missouri. Homelessness often occurs when individuals and families are unable to secure stable and affordable housing. In Missouri, there is a shortage of affordable rental housing, with only 35 affordable rental homes available for every 100 extremely low-income households. This means that many low-income individuals and families are not able to find housing they can afford, leading to an increased risk of homelessness.

Additionally, the cost of rent in Missouri has been increasing faster than wages, making it even harder for low-income individuals and families to find suitable housing. This creates a cycle where people may become homeless because they cannot afford housing, and then have difficulty finding stable housing because they do not have a permanent address or have poor credit due to their homelessness.

Furthermore, policies such as cuts to government-funded affordable housing programs and gentrification can also contribute to the lack of affordable housing options in Missouri. This makes it even more difficult for those experiencing homelessness to find stable and affordable housing solutions.

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

State laws and policies in Missouri may differ from federal policies in addressing housing affordability in several ways. Some potential differences include:

1. Focus: State policies may have a more specific focus on addressing housing affordability issues within their own boundaries, while federal policies often take a broader approach and address housing concerns nationally.

2. Funding: Federal policies typically provide more funding for affordable housing programs and initiatives than state policies. States may rely on federal grants or allocate smaller amounts of funding for affordable housing efforts.

3. Authority: States have the authority to implement their own laws and regulations related to housing issues, while federal policies must comply with national laws and regulations, such as the Fair Housing Act.

4. Target populations: State policies may target specific populations that are disproportionately impacted by the lack of affordable housing in their communities, such as low-income families or individuals with disabilities.

5. Incentives: States often offer incentives or tax breaks to developers who build affordable housing units, while federal policies may focus more on regulation and enforcement.

6. Housing market variations: State-level policies can better account for local economic conditions and varying housing markets across different regions of Missouri, compared to one-size-fits-all federal policies.

7. Emergency assistance programs: While both state and federal programs provide assistance for those facing immediate homelessness or eviction, state emergency assistance programs may differ in eligibility requirements and available resources.

Ultimately, there is likely a significant amount of overlap between state and federal approaches to addressing housing affordability in Missouri, as both levels of government work towards the common goal of ensuring that all residents have access to safe and affordable housing options.

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

1. Increase funding for affordable housing programs: State governments can allocate more resources to programs that provide assistance for low-income individuals and families to access affordable housing. This could include expanding the budget for rental assistance, down payment assistance, and home repair/improvement grants.

2. Offer tax incentives for developers: States can incentivize developers to build affordable housing by offering tax breaks or credits.

3. Implement inclusionary zoning policies: Inclusionary zoning requires developers to set aside a certain percentage of new developments as affordable units. This can be done at the state level through legislation or ordinances, encouraging more diverse housing options in communities.

4. Provide grants or loans for first-time homebuyers: Many states offer grant programs or low-interest loans specifically targeted towards first-time homebuyers, making it easier for them to afford homeownership.

5. Encourage local governments to streamline development processes: Delays in the development approval process can increase construction costs, making it more difficult for developers to build affordable housing. State governments can work with local municipalities to streamline this process and reduce costs.

6. Promote mixed-income developments: Mixed-income developments provide a mix of market-rate and affordable units, creating diverse communities without putting strain on any one income group.

7. Increase funding for public housing maintenance and renovation: Many states have aging public housing buildings that are in need of repairs and updates. Increase funding for these renovations can improve living conditions and make them more desirable options for low-income residents.

8. Address stagnant wages: One of the root causes of unaffordable housing is stagnant wages that do not keep up with rising costs of living. States should prioritize policies that promote job growth and raise minimum wage levels.

9. Provide support for homeless populations: Homelessness often creates a cycle of poverty that is difficult to escape from without stable housing. States should invest in programs that provide shelter and supportive services to help homeless individuals transition into permanent housing.

10. Offer financial counseling and education: Many low-income individuals and families may not be aware of the resources available to them to help make housing more affordable. States can provide financial education programs to empower residents to make informed decisions about their housing options.