One in three US households—nearly 100 million people—struggle with housing costs that jeopardize their financial security. The problem is acute for virtually all low-income families and for the 1 in 4 renters who spend 50% or more of their income on housing—and its effects ripple throughout our communities and economy.

In 2019, Aspen EPIC recognized rising housing costs and instability as critical threats to the financial security of American families and created a comprehensive research primer on the topic. Drawing on extensive review of the research literature, engagement with more than 100 experts, and analysis of federal survey data, we have prepared a research brief and primer, “Strong Foundations: Financial security starts with affordable, stable housing.”

Housing is the largest household expense for most Americans. EPIC is taking a hard look at housing affordability and stability to understand the meaning, scope, trends, impacts, manifestations, and drivers of these challenges. Affordability and stability (or lack thereof ) are inextricably related and can have compounding effects, so we are addressing them together as interrelated challenges.

Key Findings: