What defines affordable housing?

Affordable housing is defined as housing that is priced to be accessible to lower- and middle-income households. This concept is rooted in the idea that individuals and families in these income brackets should have the opportunity to secure stable and decent housing without dedicating an excessive portion of their income to housing costs.

Affordable housing initiatives typically aim to ensure that housing expenditures do not exceed a specified percentage of a household’s income—often considered to be around 30%. By providing options that cater to these income levels, affordable housing helps create socio-economic diversity within communities and addresses critical issues such as homelessness and housing insecurity.

The focus on lower- and middle-income households highlights the need for equitable access to housing, which is essential for supporting overall community well-being and stability. This definition contrasts sharply with luxury housing developments or high-maintenance properties that target wealthier individuals, as they do not address the needs of those who struggle to afford adequate housing.