top of page

our area's need

why housing matters

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Pittsburgh recognizes that the need for affordable housing in the City of Pittsburgh and Allegheny county is great. We know that with a little help, we all have the potential to stand on our own. Decent, affordable homeownership allows families to lead better, healthier, more financially stable lives. Strong, stable homes help build strong and stable communities. 

our area's need

Pittsburgh has been referred to as one of America’s “most livable cities.” But who is Pittsburgh the most livable for? Habitat Pittsburgh recognizes that many families in our region are struggling with the rising costs of rent, and often feel their living conditions are unfit for their families. Habitat Pittsburgh is here to help make the greater Pittsburgh area livable for all. 

unavailable

In the City of Pittsburgh, there is a severe shortage of both rental and homeownership opportunities. It is estimated that within our community, there is a need of roughly 15,000 affordable homes.

1

1

the Pittsburgh area is

currently in need of

affordable homes

unaffordable

The lack of decent, affordable homes has forced tens of thousands of local, limited-income families to pay well over 30% of their monthly income on housing. Half of those earning 30-80% of the Area Median Income are cost burdened by their housing, meaning over 30% of their income is spent on housing. 

2

3

Someone working at minimum wage

a modest, one-bedroom apartment. 

must work over

hours a week to afford

Individuals Earning 30-80% AMI Who Experience Housing Cost Burden

2

Individuals Earning 30-80% AMI Who Experience Housing Cost Burden

unsustainable

Income-restricted housing has helped to alleviate the need for affordable housing in the greater Pittsburgh area; however the supply does not meet the demand. While some income-restricted housing maintains those restrictions indefinitely, the affordability of others may expire if no action is taken. Nearly 2,000 income-restricted units in Pittsburgh are at risk of losing affordability before 2020.

1

1 in 10

housing units in Pittsburgh are income-restricted,

most of which are rentals

1

unsuitable

As a result of this housing situation, some families must live in substandard conditions or make difficult tradeoffs. More than half of all adults have made at least one tradeoff in the past three years to cover their rent or mortgage. Many families must take on an additional job or hours at work, stop retirement savings, accumulate credit card debt, or cut back on health care. 

4

many limited-income families cannot afford all four

4

the impact of affordable housing

5

Independence

​

With a little help, we all have the potential to stand on our own. Homeownership helps to break cycles of poverty, and allows families to invest in their futures. 90% of Habitat for Humanity Homeowners say that they could not have owned a home without help from Habitat. 

Success

​

Decent, affordable homeownership provides the foundation for a better future. Homeownership leads to improved health and improved school performance in children. Families owning homes are less likely to rely on government assistance and are able to build net family wealth.

Community

​

Decent, affordable housing benefits not only the homeowner, but also the surrounding community. Safe homes and neighborhoods are the foundation to secure communities and schools. Transforming blight into beautiful homes strengthens the pride residents have in their neighborhood.

Development

​

Adequate housing is vital to the well being of our economy. Neighborhoods strengthened by decent homes attract economic investment and development. Reduced vacancy and increased tax base creates an economic stimulus which positively impacts community stabilization.

References Cited

1. Housing Needs Assessment (The City of Pittsburgh Affordable Housing Task Force)
2. Building Inclusive Communities (Housing Alliance of Pennsylvania)
3. Out of Reach 2018 (National Low Income Housing Coalition)
4. How Housing Matters (MacArthur Foundation)
5. Evidence Brief: What are the benefits of homeownership? (Habitat for Humanity International)

Additional Resources

References Cited
bottom of page