Unaffordable Housing
By 2005, 23% of U.S. renters were paying more than half their monthly income in rent; 22% paid 30% to 50% of their income toward rent.
This report provides an overview of federal rental assistance programs, key data on who is served by these programs, and the housing policy challenges at the local, state and federal levels as of 2008.
Having decent, affordable homes in safe neighborhoods can help families on the path to financial stability. Yet, federal housing programs serve only a fraction of those who qualify, leaving millions of families vulnerable and at risk. Leaders at the local, state and federal levels are called upon to ensure more qualified families receive assistance, and that families receiving housing subsidies are linked to services that will help them on the path to economic independence.