Is There a Link Between Homeownership and Civic Participation?

It has long been assumed by politicians, and others, that homeowners are more likely to invest in contributing to the well-being of their neighborhoods than renters. A new report seems to support those assumptions.

1 minute read

August 22, 2012, 9:00 AM PDT

By Jonathan Nettler @nettsj


Matt Bevilacqua discusses the findings contained in a study to be published in next month's issue of the Urban Affairs Review that examines whether homeownership really does encourage civic engagement. "Looking at data collected from a group low- and mid-income
homeowners and renters over four years, researchers from the University
of North Carolina at Chapel Hill find that owning a home can indeed
inspire someone to get involved with the community - so long as the
ownership is sustained," writes Bevilacqua. 

"Policy-wise, the study concludes that measures aimed at increasing
homeownership rates in low-income neighborhoods can help precipitate a
robust civic life, which in turn may bring about a better overall
quality of life. However, beyond simply increasing access to
homeownership, these policies would have to ensure it can be sustained."

Tuesday, August 21, 2012 in Next American City

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I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

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