Affordable Housing and the Impact of Rising Interest Rates

However, to see the forest through the trees, check out the chart below. U.S. housing affordability has fallen sharply over the past few months due to steep interest rate hikes by the Federal Reserve. In mid-2022, the housing affordability index was 104. Now, it is below 90, a fall of more than 15% within a very short period. Recently, housing has become considerably less affordable.

Why Semantics Matter: Workforce vs. Affordable Housing

“Workforce Housing” is aimed at households generally earning between 60-120% of AMI. Target populations are working but perhaps unable to afford market-rate housing, such as teachers, police officers, and healthcare workers. “Affordable Housing” serves those earning below 60% of the AMI. This category often includes subsidized housing programs targeting low-income families, seniors, and people with disabilities. The only thing the target populations of any affordable housing have in common is that none are conceptualized as working class.

Often, the term “Affordable Housing” has a stigma that it is a bad word and is directly related to unemployment and economic malaise in communities. This stereotype is very destructive and false. Many tenants in affordable housing are actually workers with wages far below what is needed to afford market-rate housing. The implication that affordable housing is not for the working class can perpetuate economic divisions and inhibit investment in these critical housing segments.

Why the Distinction is Crucial for Investors

While these categories are nuanced, understanding them is core to making sound investment decisions. Workforce housing usually requires less capital investment upfront and promises stable returns due to constant demand. Affordable housing, though often subsidized, can offer social impact returns and potential tax benefits. Knowing the difference enables investors to align their strategies effectively with both financial and social objectives.

The gap between workforce and affordable housing is more than semantic—it opens up much larger economic and social issues. Misunderstanding these terms can lead to misguided policies, misallocated resources, and missed investment opportunities. It directly relates to the ongoing affordability crisis that inhibits communities from flourishing and businesses from attracting a diverse workforce. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, almost one-fourth of U.S. households fall into the category of affordable housing.

Align with Investment Partners

Understanding these housing categories is key for investors. By distinguishing between workforce and affordable housing, investors can identify markets with strong growth prospects and social impact opportunities. With our data-driven approach, we navigate the multifamily housing market with the knowledge necessary to make informed, strategic decisions that benefit our investment partners and the communities we serve.

“Workforce Housing” and “Affordable Housing” may appear simple, but their implications are profound. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for breaking societal stereotypes, making informed investment decisions, and formulating effective housing policies. We remain committed to providing nuanced, data-driven insights that serve our investment partners’ interests and contribute to broader social well-being.