Affordable Housing Myths

Affordable Housing Myths

There are a great many misconceptions about affordable housing. From decreased property values to attracting crime, misinformation about affordable housing abounds.

Look at the Myths Vs. Facts below and see if you find any misconceptions that you may hold.

MYTH #1: Organizations such as South Metro Housing Options deal only in low-income housing.

FACT: Modern housing agencies like SMHO not only provide affordable housing, they also partner with other organizations and agencies to encourage self-sufficiency, scholarship and other youth- and health-oriented programs. In addition, SMHO develops and rehabilitates residential sites to make them eco-friendly and energy efficient.

MYTH #2: Affordable housing increases traffic.

FACT: When there is sufficient affordable housing in each community, people can choose to live closer to work instead of making long commutes, thus reducing traffic congestion and pollution. A National Personal Transportation Survey found that low-income households make 40 percent fewer trips per household than others.

MYTH #3: Affordable housing increases crime.

FACT: There is no correlation between affordable housing and crime. Many socio-economic factors lead to crime, including lack of jobs and community services, and aging, run-down properties. SMHO combats crime through thoughtful design, effective onsite management, security systems, good resident screening and services, and a sense of pride among residents.

MYTH #4: Affordable housing puts a burden on the city’s infrastructure.

FACT: Higher-density housing provides more economies of scale for services than urban sprawl. In addition, infill developments can take advantage of community amenities that are already paid for, but which are under-utilized.

MYTH #5: Affordable housing negatively affects neighborhood property values.

FACT: Multiple studies have shown that affordable housing actually has a small or positive effect on property values in higher-priced neighborhoods and improves values in lower-priced neighborhoods.

MYTH #6: Subsidized housing tenants don’t pay rent.

FACT: In Littleton, the average family in subsidized housing pays approximately 30 percent of its monthly income in rent.

Affordable Housing Works

In 2017, the Colorado Chapter of NAHRO (National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials) produced “At Home Together,” a presentation that highlights the positive impacts of affordable housing. Click here to view the presentation as a PDF.