The Housing section of this report covers indicators that measure Northeastern Pennsylvania’s housing and rental market. Housing has risen as a major regional priority. There is currently a housing shortage at multiple price points and various factors have forced increases in housing costs. Potential homebuyers are also challenged by high interest rates. Housing-related challenges were evident prior to the pandemic, as new building was limited and blight increased.
Housing is a significant social determinant of health. Those without consistent and affordable housing have poorer physical and mental health outcomes, and their housing status affects their ability to maintain consistent employment. For children, insecure housing affects academic performance. Therefore, housing affects the economy, workforce and workforce pipeline, the health and social services industry, and crime.