A stark new report has revealed that nearly half of Canadians are deeply worried about the affordability of housing, reflecting a growing national concern over escalating housing and rental costs. The findings, drawn from the latest cycle of the Canadian Social Survey (CSS) on quality of life, health, and housing, highlight the multifaceted housing crisis gripping the country.
While affordability dominates headlines, the survey underscores that Canadians also struggle with housing adequacy, conditions, and even discrimination in securing suitable homes. These challenges collectively affect the well-being of millions and disproportionately impact specific demographics, particularly young adults and racialized groups.
The CSS, conducted between August 2 and September 15, 2024, sheds light on Canadians’ struggles with housing costs. Nearly half (45%) of respondents expressed significant concern over their ability to afford housing, citing skyrocketing prices and rents. Financial strain is a persistent theme, with one-third (35%) of Canadians indicating difficulty meeting essential needs such as transportation, housing, and food.
Affordability issues extend beyond mere worry. A striking 34% of households reported facing financial hardship directly linked to rising housing costs, while 31% adjusted moving plans due to unaffordable conditions. Moreover, 24% of Canadians were dissatisfied with their current housing affordability, and 21% reported being heavily impacted by rising mortgage rates.
For many, subsidized housing remains a distant dream, with only 2% of respondents on waitlists.
Young Adults Bear the Brunt
The burden of housing challenges is heaviest among young Canadians aged 20 to 35. More than half (59%) in this demographic expressed deep concern over affordability, compared to 38% of those aged 36 and older. Rising costs disrupted moving plans for half (51%) of young adults, while only a quarter (25%) of older Canadians reported similar impacts.
The survey also highlights a disparity in homeownership. Young adults, more likely to rent than own, are disproportionately affected by surging rents, which rose 8% year-over-year as of September. This group faces mounting pressure, caught between limited rental options and unattainable homeownership dreams.
Housing Quality and Discrimination Add to the Crisis
The survey reveals that housing challenges extend beyond affordability. One in ten Canadians expressed dissatisfaction with the suitability or condition of their homes, reporting issues like inadequate space or poor maintenance. For some, this dissatisfaction is compounded by experiences of discrimination.
Approximately 2% of Canadians reported facing discrimination when seeking housing, with racialized individuals—particularly South Asian, Filipino, and Black Canadians—disproportionately affected. Among South Asians, the rate of housing-related discrimination reached a troubling 3%, compared to 1% for non-racialized Canadians.
Regional Variations and Vulnerable Groups
Housing challenges vary across the country. Ontario and British Columbia recorded the highest prevalence, with 74% and 72% of respondents reporting at least one housing challenge, respectively. In contrast, Quebec had the lowest rate, with just 56% of its population affected.
Racialized Canadians are significantly more likely to experience housing challenges. Among surveyed groups, 90% of South Asians reported at least one issue, compared to 63% of non-racialized Canadians. These disparities underscore systemic inequities in access to adequate housing.
The Ripple Effect on Quality of Life
The report paints a sobering picture of how housing challenges erode overall well-being. Canadians grappling with housing issues consistently reported lower levels of life satisfaction, community belonging, and hope for the future. While 70% of those without housing challenges expressed high life satisfaction, only 36% of those with challenges felt the same.
The findings arrive amidst a nationwide housing crisis and highlight the urgent need for policy reform. The National Housing Strategy Act affirms the right of every Canadian to secure, affordable, and habitable housing. Yet, for millions, this promise remains unfulfilled.