Economic prosperity and affordable housing are tightly connected. Housing affordability is assessed by the proportion of income spent on housing costs - housing is highly affordable when costs are less than 15 percent of income, but become unaffordable when exceeding 30 percent. Ensuring affordable housing is vital for a thriving economy and community well-being.
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Is there a significant portion of the population paying more than 30% for their mortgage or rent costs? How can housing be made more affordable in your region?
Are there areas that have higher levels of vacancy levels? If so, what type of vacancy? What types of problems do these vacancies cause for your community?
Are there some portions of the community that have a higher percentage of renters?
Occupancy and vacancy status are indicators of the housing market and provide information on the stability and quality of housing for certain areas. The data is used to assess the demand for housing, to identify housing turnover within areas, and to better understand the population within the housing market over time. These data also serve to aid in the development of housing programs to meet the needs of persons and different economic levels.
The local data above is provided by Sea Grant Washington.
Washington Sea Grant (WSG) envisions healthy, productive and resilient coastal and marine ecosystems that sustain Washington’s rich cultural and maritime heritage, vibrant coastal communities, clean waters and beaches, prosperous fisheries and aquaculture, diverse wildlife and an engaged public.