Regional Housing Needs
Regional Housing Needs
The purpose of the Regional Housing Needs Assessment and Fair Housing Equity Assessment is to provide current, regional, and local data on housing needs. This assessment is a highly anticipated review of the current housing trends and needs and will identify future housing needs and opportunities. One goal of the assessment is to provide a foundation of housing trends for communities to begin addressing housing barriers and opportunities. The development of this 2022 assessment is being completed in collaboration with the nine NH Regional Planning Commissions through a statewide effort, initiated by the Council on Housing Stability 2021-2024 Strategic Plan that was initiated by Governor Sununu.
Understanding Housing Challenges in the Region
Housing has been a challenge for many households in New Hampshire for years. The New Hampshire Housing Study prepared by the New Hampshire Housing Commission in 1977 discussed “overpayment” (paying over 25% of a household’s income towards housing) as a housing problem. While much has changed since 1977, in recent years, the housing crisis has been exacerbated due to low inventory, high demand, increasing construction costs, and a shortage of labor and construction materials. Housing has become the center of a statewide conversation. Availability of affordable workforce housing directly impacts economic growth and a region’s ability to attract and retain workers and young families that contribute to the local economy and vibrancy of communities.
Project Information:
Start Date: September 2021
End Date: December 2022
Funding: American Rescue Plan State and Local Fiscal Assistance
Municipalities: All
Project Staff:
Sarah Tatarczuk Regional Planner
Tim Roache Executive Director
Jenn Rowden Land Use Manager
Robert Pruyne GIS Manager