According to a recent survey conducted by the U.S. Conference of Mayors (USCM) and American Institute of Architects (AIA), the housing shortage in the United States is projected to increase by more than two million units within the next five years if no action is taken by Congress. This estimate was based on data from 120 cities that participated in the USCM-AIA National Housing Survey.
The survey found that one-third of mayors reported that over half of households in their city were struggling with high housing costs. Additionally, nearly all mayors reported an increase in median rental prices, sale prices, and cost per square foot for housing. If Congress does not take action, more than 80% of mayors believe there will be significant negative impacts on affordability, access to housing, economic opportunities and homelessness.
In response to these findings, USCM President and Mayor Andrew Ginther from Columbus (OH) stated: “This is a national crisis that requires a national solution. We urge Congress and the new administration to work with us and invest in affordable housing for American families – doing nothing is not an option.”
The survey also revealed that four out of five cities have recently updated land use or zoning policies or are currently reviewing them as ways to support additional development for affordable housing options. Furthermore,
nearly 90%of respondents called on Congress
to protect existing federal programs aimed at addressing this issue.
Overall,the USCMand AIA are callingonCongressfor immediateactionto addressthe growinghousing shortfallintheUnitedStatesbeforeit becomesan evenmorepressingissue.
