U.S. Mayors Report Housing Costs as Primary Driver of Affordability Crisis
A National Affordability Survey released by the U.S. Conference of Mayors (USCM) indicates that 96% of surveyed U.S. mayors identify untenable housing costs as the primary driver of the affordability crisis. The survey, which polled 113 mayors across 39 states and Puerto Rico, representing approximately 34.1 million Americans, found that nearly 93% of mayors reported a rising cost of living in their cities over the past year, with 39% stating conditions have significantly worsened. Beyond housing, other contributing pressures cited include groceries, utilities, childcare, transportation, and healthcare costs. The report also highlights that nearly seven in ten mayors observed higher rates of food insecurity and food bank usage, and two-thirds noted that local businesses are suffering due to residents having less disposable income. A city official from Vallejo, California, reported increased reliance on public transit due to gas prices, more households falling behind on water bills, and overwhelmed legal se...
