UPDATE: A new study has named Cleveland as the **second-most affordable** housing market among the **world’s 95 largest** cities, but local leaders warn that this designation masks a serious **affordable housing crisis**. Cleveland City Council President **Blaine A. Griffin** stressed the urgent need for more affordable housing solutions, as many residents struggle to find suitable living conditions.
Recent reports highlighting Cleveland’s affordability may seem contradictory to the ongoing crisis, where nearly **60%** of residents live in rental units. Griffin pointed out that housing affordability encompasses more than just home prices—it involves ensuring that residents can comfortably pay for housing without sacrificing basic needs. **Affordable housing** should cost no more than **30%** of a household’s income.
The reality in Cleveland is stark: **rents surged by 10.6%** in **2024**, making it challenging for families to find homes they can afford. Many face landlords who do not accept **Section 8 vouchers**, and unsafe living conditions, risking homelessness. According to Griffin, Cleveland City Council receives daily reports from residents highlighting the urgent need for more affordable housing in under-resourced neighborhoods.
In response, the City Council has legislated over **$100 million** from the **American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA)** for housing initiatives. These funds will support new construction, home repair programs, and supportive services. Projects include **$27 million** for lead abatement and repairs, and nearly **$10 million** for scattered-site housing. The city has also partnered with federal agencies to secure **$35 million** for housing in the **Buckeye-Woodhill** neighborhood.
Additionally, the creation of the **Cleveland Housing Investment Fund (CHIF)** aims to grow to **$100 million** to finance inclusive, affordable housing. This fund will invest in mixed-income rental housing, as well as for-sale affordable homes, with the goal of creating **2,500 to 3,000** new units.
Griffin emphasized the irony of Cleveland’s housing situation: while the city is recognized as one of the **most affordable** major housing markets globally, many of its residents cannot afford to purchase or rent homes. “We need to fix this problem,” he declared, urging city officials to keep pushing for more affordable housing options and to maintain momentum on these critical initiatives.
As Cleveland grapples with the dual realities of being labeled affordable yet facing a housing crisis, the community must come together to address the urgent needs of its residents. The time for action is now, and all eyes are on city leaders to deliver tangible solutions.
