Housing strategies to strengthen communities

How does housing impact neighborhoods?

Economically and racially integrated neighborhoods produce better community outcomes. ¹

Neighborhoods with high levels of concentrated poverty see higher rates of crime, unplanned pregnancy, male joblessness, and high school dropouts.

Reducing neighborhood poverty rates creates better long-term outcomes for low-income children. ^{2 3}

Lower-income children are more likely to experience upward economic mobility if they grow up in areas with less concentrated poverty, better schools, a large share of two-parent families, and lower crime rates. The earlier children move to a higher opportunity neighborhood, the stronger the positive effects.

Safe, high-quality housing improves community well-being. ⁴

Insufficient home insulation, the absence of hot water, pest infestation, mold, inadequate ventilation, and other environmental factors in homes are associated with greater incidences of infectious diseases, chronic illnesses, injuries, poor nutrition, mental disorders, and cognitive development issues.

The physical condition of neighborhoods affects community-wide outcomes. ⁵

Neighborhood blight is associated with crime and diminished economic activity and contributes to negative community employment, education, and health outcomes.