Home prices are rising throughout the U.S., signaling a sustained recovery of the housing market. But declining homeownership rates and record levels of burdensome housing costs point to a recovery that's only benefiting some Americans.
"Driven by rising home prices and growing demand, the U.S. housing recovery is well underway," finds the latest State of the Nation’s Housing report released by Harvard's Joint Center for Housing Studies.
"While still at historically low levels, housing construction has finally turned the corner, giving the economy a much-needed boost," says Eric Belsky, the Center's Managing Director. "But even as the recovery gains momentum, millions of homeowners are still delinquent on their mortgages or owe more than their homes are worth, and severe housing cost burdens have set a new record."
"Given the profoundly positive impact that decent and affordable housing can have on the lives of individuals, families, and entire communities, efforts to address these urgent concerns as well as longstanding housing affordability challenges should be among the nation’s highest priorities," he concludes.
FULL STORY: A Housing Recovery, but Not for All Americans
The Far-Reaching Effects of the Housing Crisis
When housing costs are high, lower-income residents are not the only ones who end up struggling.
Research: Low-Cost Rental Housing Disappears While Rental Stock Grows
There are more rental units in the United States than ever, but fewer of them are available at low cost, so there are more cost-burdened renters than ever, according to new research.
The Rural Housing Affordability Crisis
The number of cost-burdened households in rural parts of the United States is increasing quickly.
Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
Canada vs. Kamala: Whose Liberal Housing Platform Comes Out on Top?
As Canada votes for a new Prime Minister, what can America learn from the leading liberal candidate of its neighbor to the north?
Washington State’s Parking Reform Law Could Unlock ‘Countless’ Acres for New Housing
A law that limits how much parking cities can require for residential amd commercial developments could lead to a construction boom.
Wildlife Rebounds After the Eaton Fire
Following the devastation of the Eaton Fire, the return of wildlife and the regrowth of native plants are offering powerful signs of resilience and renewal.
LA to Replace Inglewood Light Rail Project With Bus Shuttles
LA Metro says the change is in response to community engagement and that the new design will be ready before the 2028 Olympic Games.
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