Summary Report: Housing Affordability in Delaware

Abstract

The Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA) partnered with the University of Delaware’s Center for Applied Demography & Survey Research (CADSR) to do a statewide survey on housing affordability. While housing and homelessness have historically been viewed as lower priorities for Delaware residents, a changing landscape of rising rents, housing instability, and visible homelessness suggests public attitudes may be shifting. This research captures current public sentiment to align future housing policies and communications with community values. The survey evaluated four distinct focus areas: housing supply and affordable housing, causes of homelessness, regulatory barriers like zoning and permitting, and economic pressures and housing costs.