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

The housing affordability crisis has had a significant impact on residents in New Hampshire. Some of the key ways in which it has affected residents include:

1. High cost of living: The rising cost of housing has contributed to a high cost of living in New Hampshire. This makes it difficult for individuals and families to afford basic necessities such as food, healthcare, and education.

2. Limited affordable housing options: There is a severe shortage of affordable housing options in New Hampshire, especially for low-income households. This means that many residents struggle to find decent and affordable homes, leading to overcrowding, homelessness, or being forced out of their communities.

3. Impact on marginalized communities: The housing affordability crisis disproportionately affects marginalized communities such as people of color, immigrants, and seniors. These groups may face discrimination in the rental or housing market, making it even more challenging for them to find affordable housing.

4. Financial strain: For those who are able to secure housing, the high cost puts a significant strain on their finances. Paying for rent or mortgage leaves little room for saving or investing in other areas such as retirement or education.

5. Displacement and gentrification: As demand for affordable housing increases, some neighborhoods may experience displacement as landlords sell their properties or raise rents in response. This can lead to gentrification and the displacement of long-term residents.

6. Negative effects on mental health: Struggling with finding or affording stable housing can take a toll on an individual’s mental health. The uncertainty and stress associated with not having a safe place to live can contribute to anxiety and depression.

7. Lack of access to services: Many affordable housing units are located far from essential services like schools, healthcare facilities, and public transportation. This makes it challenging for residents without access to personal vehicles or reliable public transportation to meet their daily needs.

In summary, the lack of affordable housing options has had far-reaching impacts on residents in New Hampshire, affecting their financial stability, physical and mental health, and overall quality of life.

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

1. High Demand and Limited Supply: One of the main factors contributing to housing unaffordability in New Hampshire is the high demand for housing combined with limited supply. This creates a competitive market, driving up prices and making it difficult for low- and middle-income individuals and families to find affordable housing options.

2. Lack of Affordable Housing Units: There is a shortage of affordable housing units in New Hampshire, particularly in the rental market. This is due to a combination of factors such as strict zoning and land use regulations, rising construction costs, and an overall lack of investment in affordable housing by developers.

3. High Cost of Living: The cost of living in New Hampshire is significantly higher than the national average, making it challenging for many individuals and families to afford basic necessities such as housing, food, transportation, and healthcare.

4. Economic Growth: While economic growth can bring many benefits to a state, it can also contribute to housing unaffordability as wages struggle to keep up with rising home prices.

5. Influx of Out-of-State Buyers: New Hampshire has become an increasingly popular destination for out-of-state buyers, drawn by its natural beauty, high quality of life, and relatively low taxes. This influx has driven up demand for housing, leading to higher prices.

6. Student Loan Debt: New Hampshire has one of the highest rates of student loan debt in the country. This burden can make it difficult for young adults and recent graduates to save for a down payment or afford monthly mortgage payments.

7. Aging Population: As the baby boomer generation continues to retire and downsize their homes, they are competing with younger buyers for smaller and more affordable homes.

8. Limited Government Assistance Programs: There are limited government assistance programs available for low-income individuals and families in need of affordable housing in New Hampshire.

9. Geographic Challenges: The geography of New Hampshire presents challenges for development and construction. The state has limited land available for new housing and many areas have strict environmental and building regulations, making it more expensive to build.

10. Lack of Affordable Public Transportation: New Hampshire is a largely rural state with limited public transportation options, making it difficult for low-income individuals to access job opportunities or affordable housing outside of urban areas.

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

According to recent data from the United States Census Bureau, the median household income in New Hampshire is $76,260. The average cost of housing (including mortgage payments, property taxes, and utilities) for a homeowner in New Hampshire is estimated to be around $1,851 per month.

Compared to other states, the median income in New Hampshire is higher than the national average of $63,179. However, the cost of housing in New Hampshire is also relatively high compared to other states. According to data from Zillow, the median home value in New Hampshire is $288,000 as of February 2021.

This means that housing costs in New Hampshire can be quite expensive for those with a median income. In fact, according to a study by GoBankingRates, New Hampshire has one of the highest percentages (42%) of residents who can’t afford their monthly housing expenses based on their income alone.

Overall, although the median income in New Hampshire is higher than average, it may still be challenging for some residents to afford housing costs due to the state’s relatively high cost of living.

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

There are several efforts being made by the government to address housing affordability in New Hampshire. Some of these include:

1. Creation of Affordable Housing Fund: The state government has established an Affordable Housing Fund, which provides financial assistance for the development, preservation, and rehabilitation of affordable housing units.

2. Low-Income Housing Tax Credits: The state offers Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTCs) to developers who build or rehabilitate affordable rental housing for low-income families.

3. Inclusionary Zoning: Some cities and towns in New Hampshire have adopted inclusionary zoning policies that require developers to set aside a certain percentage of units in new developments for affordable housing.

4. Housing Appeals Board: In 2017, the state legislature created a new state-level housing appeals board to speed up the process for developers seeking approval for affordable housing projects. This is intended to reduce costs and delays associated with developing affordable housing.

5. Public-Private Partnerships: The state government has partnered with private organizations and nonprofits to develop affordable housing projects through initiatives like the Workforce Housing Coalition.

6. Financial Assistance Programs: The New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority offers various financial assistance programs such as down payment assistance, mortgages with below-market interest rates, and home repair loans for low- and moderate-income households.

7. Land Use Regulation Reform: There have been ongoing efforts by the state government to reform land use regulations and encourage more flexible and less restrictive zoning codes that can allow for higher density developments, including affordable housing units.

8. Affordable Senior Housing: In response to the growing elderly population in New Hampshire, there are various programs aimed at providing affordable housing specifically for seniors, such as senior-specific low-income apartments and rental assistance programs.

9. Homeless Assistance Programs: The state offers subsidies for homeless services through emergency shelters, projects focused on rapid re-housing, transitional living facilities, case management services, supportive services like transportation assistance or health care, and more.

10. Public Education: The state government has implemented public education campaigns to increase awareness about housing affordability issues and the various resources available for affordable housing options in New Hampshire.

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

According to data from the New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority, housing affordability is generally a challenge throughout the state. However, there are certain areas and regions within New Hampshire that have higher levels of housing unaffordability, including:

1. Seacoast region – This region, which includes cities like Portsmouth, Hampton, and Dover, has a high cost of living and limited affordable housing options.

2. Lakes Region – The popular tourist destination of the Lakes Region, with towns such as Wolfeboro and Meredith, also has a high cost of living that can make it difficult for residents to afford housing.

3. Southern New Hampshire – The southern part of the state, especially in and around major cities like Manchester and Nashua, tends to have higher rental costs and home prices compared to other areas.

4. Ski resort towns – Towns near popular ski resorts such as North Conway and Lincoln often have high housing costs due to their desirable locations.

5. College towns – Areas with major colleges and universities, such as Durham (University of New Hampshire) and Hanover (Dartmouth College), may have higher housing prices due to demand from students and staff members.

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

The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated housing affordability issues in New Hampshire in several ways:

1. Unemployment and Economic Hardship: The pandemic caused widespread job losses and economic hardship, making it even more difficult for low-income families to afford housing. Many renters and homeowners saw significant reductions in their incomes, making it challenging to keep up with rent/mortgage payments.

2. Higher Demand for Affordable Housing: With many people losing their jobs or experiencing financial strain, there has been a surge in demand for affordable housing options. This increased demand has driven up prices and made it harder to find affordable housing in the state.

3. Eviction Crisis: The pandemic also led to a temporary ban on evictions, which was intended to provide relief to struggling renters. However, as the ban is lifted and eviction processes resume, many families are at risk of losing their homes if they are unable to catch up on missed rent payments.

4. Reduced Rental Assistance Programs: The pandemic also forced budget cuts in some rental assistance programs that help low-income families afford their homes. These program limitations have left many households without crucial support they need to stay housed.

5. Delayed Affordable Housing Projects: The pandemic has also slowed down the development and construction of affordable housing projects due to supply chain disruptions, labor shortages, and financial uncertainties.

Overall, the COVID-19 pandemic has only made an already challenging situation worse for low-income individuals and families struggling with housing affordability in New Hampshire. It will likely take significant efforts from both the public and private sectors to address these issues effectively.

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

According to a report by the National Low Income Housing Coalition, 30% of individuals and families in New Hampshire are considered “cost-burdened,” meaning they spend more than 30% of their income on housing expenses.

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

Yes, there are several programs and initiatives available in New Hampshire to assist low-income residents with finding affordable housing. Some of these include:

1. Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program: This federal program provides rental assistance to low-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. Participants can choose their own housing, as long as it meets the program’s requirements for safety and affordability.

2. Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): This program helps eligible households pay for heating costs in the winter months.

3. Community Action Agencies (CAAs): These agencies offer a variety of services to help low-income individuals and families access affordable housing options, including rental assistance, emergency housing, and homeownership counseling.

4. New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority: This state agency offers various programs and resources for affordable homeownership and rental options for low- to moderate-income individuals and families.

5. Homeless Shelters: There are numerous homeless shelters throughout the state that provide temporary housing options for those experiencing homelessness or who are at risk of becoming homeless.

6. Habitat for Humanity: This nonprofit organization helps low-income families build and buy their own homes through volunteer labor and donations.

7. USDA Rural Development: This federal agency offers programs to assist low- and very-low income rural residents with purchasing or repairing homes.

8. Local Nonprofit Organizations: Many local nonprofits in New Hampshire offer a range of services and programs to help low-income residents find safe, decent, and affordable housing options in their community.

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

Gentrification can have both positive and negative impacts on housing affordability in New Hampshire communities. Here are three potential ways it can affect affordability:

1. Rising housing prices: Gentrification often involves the renovation and redevelopment of older buildings and neighborhoods, which can lead to an influx of new residents with higher incomes. This can drive up demand for housing, resulting in increased competition and higher prices for both rental and owner-occupied properties. As a result, lower-income residents may be priced out of their homes or struggle to find affordable options in the same area.

2. Decrease in affordable housing stock: Gentrification can also lead to the displacement of lower-income residents as developers buy up properties and convert them into more expensive homes or apartments. This conversion reduces the number of affordable units available in a community, making it harder for those with limited incomes to find suitable housing options.

3. Government policies: In some cases, gentrification is facilitated by government policies aimed at revitalizing certain areas or attracting wealthier residents. These policies may include tax incentives for developers or zoning changes that favor higher-priced developments. While these initiatives may improve the overall economic health of a community, they may also contribute to a decrease in affordable housing options.

Overall, gentrification can significantly impact housing affordability in New Hampshire communities by increasing prices and reducing the availability of affordable units. It is important for local governments to carefully consider the potential impacts of gentrification when implementing development policies and work towards balancing economic growth with preserving housing affordability for all residents.

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

The lack of affordable housing can negatively impact job opportunities and economic growth within New Hampshire in several ways:

1. Employee Recruitment and Retention: Employers may have difficulty attracting and retaining employees if housing is unaffordable. This can be especially challenging for industries that rely on lower-wage workers, as they may struggle to find affordable housing options in the area.

2. Limited Workforce Mobility: The high cost of housing can also limit the ability of workers to move to new job opportunities within the state. This can prevent individuals from pursuing career advancement or taking on new positions that may offer higher pay or better benefits.

3. Higher Cost of Living: When housing prices are high, it often drives up the cost of living in general. This can make it difficult for individuals and families to make ends meet, particularly those with lower incomes.

4. Business Expansion and Relocation: A lack of affordable housing options in a particular area can dissuade businesses from expanding or relocating there. Companies may find it difficult to attract new employees or accommodate current employees who want to relocate.

5. Decreased Economic Growth: The lack of affordable housing can hinder economic growth by limiting consumer spending power and reducing overall demand for goods and services within the state.

6. Lowers Property Values: If large numbers of homes are unaffordable, this could lead to a decrease in property values across the state, reducing tax revenues for local communities and potentially affecting infrastructure development and services provided by municipalities.

7. Strain on Social Services: When people are unable to afford housing, they may turn to government assistance programs for support. This creates additional financial strain on social service programs that are already stretched thin, ultimately impacting taxpayers as well as municipal budgets.

8. Negative Impact on Education: Children residing in unstable or overcrowded living conditions may struggle in school, which could ultimately impact their future job prospects and earning potential.

Overall, access to affordable housing is essential not only for individuals and families, but also for the overall economic health of a state. Addressing this issue can help create a more stable and sustainable workforce, attract new businesses, increase spending power, and support economic growth in New Hampshire.

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

Some industries and sectors that are particularly affected by high housing costs in New Hampshire include tourism, healthcare, education, and technology. Tourism relies heavily on seasonal workers who often struggle to find affordable housing options during peak tourist seasons. Healthcare workers, including nurses and aides, may also struggle to find affordable housing near their workplace. Similarly, teachers and other education professionals may face challenges in finding affordable housing in areas with good schools. Lastly, the technology industry in New Hampshire is growing rapidly, leading to increased demand for housing and potentially driving up prices.

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

Zoning laws and regulations play a significant role in addressing housing affordability issues in New Hampshire, as they dictate the types of housing that can be built and where it can be located. They can either help to promote more affordable housing options or contribute to exacerbating the problem.

One way zoning laws can address housing affordability is by allowing for higher density developments, such as multi-family units, which tend to be more affordable than single-family homes. Zoning that allows for diverse types of housing, from high-density urban apartments to suburban townhouses, can also help promote a range of affordability options.

On the other hand, restrictive zoning laws that limit the types and sizes of properties that can be built in certain areas often lead to high land costs and make it difficult for developers to build more affordable housing. This can also contribute to segregation and exclusionary practices that further exacerbate affordability issues.

In addition, local zoning ordinances may require developers to include certain amenities or features in their developments, such as parking spaces or open space requirements, which can drive up the cost of building and ultimately make the resulting housing units less affordable.

Overall, the way zoning laws are implemented and enforced can have a significant impact on housing affordability in New Hampshire. It is important for zoning laws to be regularly evaluated and updated to ensure they are promoting diverse and affordable housing options in all communities. Additionally, there should be efforts made at both the local and state level to address any discriminatory or exclusionary zoning practices that may exist.

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

Yes, there is a significant gap between the number of affordable homes needed and those currently available in New Hampshire. According to a 2019 report by the National Low Income Housing Coalition, New Hampshire has a shortage of 29,430 affordable and available rental homes for extremely low-income renters. This means that for every 100 extremely low-income renter households in New Hampshire, only 30 affordable and available rental homes are available.

Furthermore, a study by the New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority found that in 2018, nearly half (48%) of renters in the state were cost-burdened, meaning they paid more than 30% of their income on housing costs. Additionally, almost a quarter (24%) were severely cost-burdened, meaning they paid more than 50% of their income on housing costs.

This shortage of affordable housing affects not only low-income individuals and families but also seniors and people with disabilities who may have limited incomes. The lack of availability of affordable housing can result in overcrowding, homelessness, and displacement – all contributing to an overall decrease in quality of life for those affected.

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

There is a significant difference in rental prices between urban and rural areas in New Hampshire. Generally, rental prices in urban areas tend to be higher due to the demand for housing and the cost of living. In contrast, rental prices in rural areas are typically lower due to a lower population density and fewer amenities.

As of 2021, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in downtown Manchester (an urban area) is around $1,500, while the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in a rural area like Conway is around $900. Similarly, the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment in downtown Portsmouth (an urban area) is around $2,200, while the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Keene (a more rural area) is around $1,300.

Overall, there is about a 30-40% difference between rental prices in urban and rural areas within New Hampshire.

15. Does homeownership contribute significantly to overall homeownership rates in New Hampshire?

Yes, homeownership has a significant impact on overall homeownership rates in New Hampshire. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the homeownership rate in New Hampshire was 71.5% in 2019, which is higher than the national average of 64.6%. Homeownership also plays a crucial role in stabilizing and strengthening communities and local economies by providing stability and building wealth for homeowners. Additionally, the high homeownership rate in New Hampshire is often seen as a reflection of the state’s strong economy and quality of life, making it an attractive place to live and own a home.

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

Yes, there are a variety of unique challenges faced by certain demographics in finding affordable housing in New Hampshire.

1. Seniors: As the population of seniors (65 years and older) continues to grow in New Hampshire, there is a growing need for affordable housing for this demographic. Some of the challenges faced by seniors include limited fixed incomes, high healthcare costs, and physical limitations that may make it difficult to find suitable housing.

2. Young people: The high cost of rent and low availability of entry-level jobs can make it challenging for young people to find affordable housing in New Hampshire. In addition, many young adults may have significant student loan debt that affects their ability to save for a down payment on a home or qualify for a mortgage.

3. Rural residents: Rural areas in New Hampshire often have limited job opportunities and lower wages as compared to urban areas, making it more difficult for residents to afford housing. In addition, in some rural areas, there may be few options for affordable rental units or subsidized housing programs.

4. Individuals with disabilities: For New Hampshire residents with disabilities, finding accessible and affordable housing can be extremely difficult. There is a lack of available accessible housing units and many people face discrimination when trying to rent or purchase a home.

5. Immigrants and refugees: Many immigrants and refugees face language barriers and cultural differences when trying to navigate the complex process of finding affordable housing in New Hampshire. In addition, these populations may also struggle with limited financial resources and lack of credit history, making it harder to secure affordable housing options.

6.Families with children: High child care costs coupled with expensive rental rates can make it difficult for families with children to find affordable housing in New Hampshire. Additionally, overcrowding is also an issue for many low-income families who may not be able to afford larger homes or apartments but have multiple family members living together.

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

Property taxes can have a significant impact on overall housing costs for residents of New Hampshire. This is primarily because the state relies heavily on property taxes to fund local services and education. In fact, New Hampshire has one of the highest property tax rates in the country.

For homeowners, property tax payments are typically included in their monthly mortgage payments. This means that higher property tax rates can result in higher mortgage payments and therefore increase overall housing costs.

For renters, landlords may pass on their property tax expenses to their tenants through increased rent prices. This can make renting more expensive for residents in areas with high property tax rates.

In addition, high property taxes can also make it more difficult for individuals and families to afford homeownership, as they may struggle to save for a down payment or afford the ongoing cost of owning a home.

Overall, property taxes play a significant role in determining the affordability of housing in New Hampshire and can greatly impact the overall cost of living in the state.

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

Yes, there is a correlation between high levels of homelessness and lack of affordable housing options in New Hampshire. The lack of affordable housing options makes it difficult for individuals and families to find a place to live that they can afford, leading to an increased risk of becoming homeless. This is particularly true for low-income individuals and families who may struggle to find housing that fits within their budget. The scarcity of affordable housing also contributes to the cycle of homelessness, as individuals who are experiencing homelessness often have difficulty securing stable housing due to the high cost of rent and limited availability. Additionally, rising housing costs and stagnant wages in New Hampshire make it challenging for many people to maintain stable housing, increasing the likelihood of homelessness.

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

State laws and policies related to housing affordability in New Hampshire may differ from federal policies in the following ways:

1. Affordable Housing Programs: The state of New Hampshire has its own affordable housing programs that are designed to address the specific needs of its residents. These programs include the Workforce Housing Tax Credit Program, which provides tax incentives to developers who build affordable housing for low- and moderate-income individuals and families. There is also the Local Housing Trust Fund program that offers funding to local agencies to help them develop affordable housing initiatives.

2. Rent Control Laws: Unlike some states, New Hampshire does not have any statewide rent control laws. However, some cities in the state, such as Portsmouth and Durham, have enacted their own rent control ordinances to protect tenants from steep rent increases.

3. Incentives for Developers: The state government offers incentives to developers who build affordable rental units through the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit program and the Community Development Block Grant program. These incentives aim to encourage developers to invest in projects that address housing affordability.

4. Tenant Protections: While there are federal laws that protect tenants’ rights, each state can also enact its own tenant protection laws. In New Hampshire, for example, landlords are required to provide written notice before increasing rents or terminating tenancy agreements.

5. Homeownership Assistance Programs: The state government offers assistance programs like the First-time Homebuyer Savings Account and the Mortgage Credit Certificate Program, which provide tax incentives and other benefits to promote homeownership among low- and moderate-income individuals.

In general, federal policies tend to be broader in scope compared to state policies. For example, while HUD (the Department of Housing and Urban Development) oversees affordable housing initiatives nationwide, each individual state has its own housing agency that manages programs within the state’s borders.

Overall, both federal and state policies play a crucial role in addressing housing affordability in New Hampshire by providing a range of resources and protections for both renters and homeowners.

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

1. Increase funding for affordable housing programs: The state government can allocate more funds for programs that provide financial assistance for low-income residents to access affordable housing.

2. Incentivize construction of affordable housing: State governments can offer tax breaks or other incentives to developers who build affordable housing units.

3. Streamline the regulatory process: Excessive regulations and bureaucratic red tape can drive up the cost of building affordable housing. State governments should work to streamline and simplify the permitting and approval processes for developers.

4. Encourage public-private partnerships: The state government can partner with private companies and nonprofits to develop and manage affordable housing projects, leveraging their resources and expertise.

5. Create a state-level rental assistance program: Many low-income individuals struggle to afford rent even in properties that are technically considered “affordable.” A state-funded rental assistance program can fill this gap and help residents find stable and affordable housing.

6. Expand the use of subsidies and vouchers: State governments can increase the availability of income-based subsidies or vouchers that allow lower-income families to afford rent in areas with higher costs of living.

7. Support community land trusts: Community land trusts are nonprofit organizations that acquire land, develop properties, and then sell them at an affordable price while retaining ownership of the land. States can support these initiatives by providing seed funding or technical assistance.

8. Prohibit discrimination against renters with government assistance: Some landlords may refuse to rent out units to individuals who receive government assistance like Section 8 vouchers due to stigma or discrimination. States can pass legislation that prohibits landlords from discriminating against renters based on their source of income.

9. Invest in infrastructure: Building new affordable housing is not enough if it is not supported by efficient transportation options, quality schools, or access to jobs. States should invest in infrastructure improvements that benefit lower-income communities, making them more attractive for developers.

10. Implement inclusionary zoning policies: These policies require new developments to include a certain percentage of affordable units, or contribute to an affordable housing fund in lieu of building those units. States can also incentivize cities and towns to adopt these policies by offering technical assistance and funding.

11. Increase minimum wage: Raising the minimum wage can help low-income individuals afford housing without relying on government assistance.

12. Address property tax issues: Property taxes can be a barrier to homeownership for low-income families. State governments can look at ways to reduce the burden of property taxes, such as implementing homestead exemptions or circuit breaker programs.

13. Encourage shared housing arrangements: States can support programs that match empty nesters or seniors with young adults or low-income individuals looking for affordable housing options, which benefits both parties.

14. Develop a vacant properties strategy: Many states have significant numbers of abandoned or vacant homes that could be renovated and used as affordable housing. The state government can work with local municipalities to develop strategies for repurposing these properties.

15. Expand homelessness prevention programs: It is more cost-effective to prevent homelessness rather than deal with its consequences, such as emergency shelter stays. State governments should invest in homelessness prevention initiatives that provide rental assistance, mediation services, or financial counseling.

16. Provide alternative financing options: For some low-income residents, traditional mortgages may not be an option due to lack of credit or income history. State governments can explore alternative financing options like shared equity mortgages, lease-purchase agreements, or community land trusts.

17. Support small-scale developers: Building affordable housing requires capital and expertise that small-scale developers often lack. The state government can provide training and technical assistance for these developers, making it easier for them to enter the market.

18.Examine zoning laws: Restrictive zoning laws that only permit large single-family homes on large lots drive up the cost of land and make it harder for developers to build affordable housing. State governments should review existing zoning laws and consider reforms that increase the density of housing in certain areas.

19. Increase public transportation options: Transportation costs can be a significant burden for lower-income individuals, particularly those living in rural areas. States can improve access to jobs and alleviate transportation costs by investing in public transportation options.

20. Encourage local collaboration: State governments can play a role in bringing together stakeholders from all levels of government, private industry, nonprofits, and community groups to develop comprehensive solutions that work for their specific region or locality.