A recent survey reveals that people across the United States share common priorities when it comes to housing, including 95% saying affordability is important to them personally.
The poll by NeighborWorks America underscores shared concerns about rising housing costs and a willingness to consider new development and zoning reforms that promote more affordable, connected communities.
“Americans want options that fit their lives and their budgets,” says Marietta Rodriguez, president and CEO of NeighborWorks America. “From young adults seeking their first home to older adults looking to downsize, the message is clear—people want attainable homes in neighborhoods that offer opportunity, safety, and a sense of belonging.”
Here are five key findings from “Bridging the Missing Middle: What Americans Say About Housing and Affordability”:
- 95% of Americans say affordability is an important aspect of housing to them, personally. This includes 96% of those living in suburban communities, 94% of those living in urban communities, and 95% of those living in rural communities;
- 61% of American adults think that increasing missing-middle housing would have a positive impact on housing affordability. Nearly 3 out of 5 respondents say they believe doing so would have a positive impact on the economy;
- Nearly two-thirds of Americans say they would support changes to zoning if it meant housing would become more affordable. This includes 67% of those living in suburban communities, 69% of those living in urban communities, and 63% of those living in rural communities;
- Half of Americans are open to multigenerational housing solutions, and one-third would consider living in an accessory dwelling unit; and
- In looking for a new home, 64% of Americans say they would consider a neighborhood that includes a mix of housing types of smaller scale. This includes 65% of those with incomes under $50,000, 62% of those with incomes between $50,000 and $100,000, and 65% of those with incomes over $100,000.