Affordable Housing Crisis Potentially Looming for Texas’ Middle Class

A lack of affordable housing can be typically attributed to those living in poverty. However, experts are pointing out that in Texas, middle class individuals and families are finding it increasingly costlier to buy or rent.

According to U.S. Census and other housing affordability data:

• Renters in Texas tend to pay more for housing, and generally have a harder time affording where they live than homeowners
• While some areas might seem affordable on paper, they are out of reach for many Texans, because of lower income
• Communities of color tend to spend a larger percentage of their income on housing
• Low-income residents in Austin are being pushed out of areas near urban cores because of gentrification and higher housing rates

“It’s a crisis that is looming,” San Antonio City Council member Rey Saldaña said during the recent Texas Tribune Festival.

For comments, questions or concerns, please contact Amy Sorter