North Raleigh Today

In a stark reality check, it has been revealed that no metropolitan area in the country offers affordable housing for a full-time minimum wage worker. Even in Raleigh, where the cost of living is relatively lower compared to other major cities, the wage required to afford a 2-bedroom apartment is a staggering $27.15 per hour. This means that many individuals, including childcare workers and medical assistants, are burdened by the high cost of housing.

Recognizing the urgent need to tackle the issue of housing affordability, the City of Raleigh has taken significant steps to address this pressing problem. Through strategic investments in affordable housing, site acquisition, and public services, the City has been actively working to alleviate the burden faced by its residents.

Since 2016, the City has made remarkable progress in its mission to provide affordable housing options. Over 2,800 affordable units have been created or preserved, offering hope to those struggling to find suitable and affordable housing. Additionally, the City has facilitated the purchase of homes for 600 first-time homebuyers, enabling them to achieve the dream of homeownership.

Not stopping there, the City has also prioritized the repair of over 200 owner-occupied homes, ensuring that existing housing stock remains in good condition and safe for its occupants. Furthermore, the City has extended a helping hand to over 12,000 individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness by providing rapid rehousing and emergency shelter services. To address the broader needs of the community, public services have been offered to over 10,500 individuals, providing essential support and resources.

Despite these commendable efforts, the City acknowledges that there is still much work to be done. Understanding the importance of educating the public about the root causes of unaffordable housing and the City's ongoing initiatives, a video has been released to shed light on this critical issue. The video provides valuable insights into why housing has become unaffordable and outlines the proactive measures the City is taking to address this challenge.

To further delve into the topic of affordable housing and the City's comprehensive approach to meet the community's needs, interested individuals are encouraged to visit the Affordable Housing 101 webpage. This dedicated resource offers a wealth of information and resources for those seeking to understand the complexities of housing affordability.

For those passionate about staying informed and being part of the solution, signing up for email alerts under the topic "Community Development News" will ensure that individuals receive timely updates on future videos in this series and other updates related to affordable housing and community development.

The City of Raleigh's commitment to addressing the affordable housing crisis is commendable. By investing in affordable housing, providing crucial services, and empowering residents, the City is making significant strides towards creating a more inclusive and accessible community for all.

To learn more, click on this link: https://raleighnc.gov/housing/news/affordable-housing-101-video-why-housing-unaffordable