U.S. Mayors Highlight Housing as Primary Affordability Concern, Call for Federal Action
Mayors across the United States are reporting that the affordable housing crisis is the most pressing affordability issue facing their cities, with 96% of surveyed mayors indicating that their residents are very or extremely concerned about it. A recent survey conducted by the U.S. Conference of Mayors (USCM) involving 113 cities from 39 states and Puerto Rico revealed that nearly 93% of mayors believe the cost of living has worsened in their cities over the past year, with 39% noting a significant deterioration. This crisis is manifesting in high rents, increased demand for food banks, reduced household disposable income, rising homelessness, and mental health crises. Cities are struggling to meet the demand for assistance programs while simultaneously trying to lower taxes and fees to provide relief. San Diego Mayor and USCM President Todd Gloria emphasized the need for strong federal partnership to address this national crisis, despite local efforts such as Kansas City, Missouri's $100 million bond for ...
