Bridging the Gap: Addressing the Affordable Housing Shortage in Central Ohio

Introduction

Central Ohio is experiencing a growing housing crisis, with demand far outpacing supply. According to a report from the Building Industry Association of Central Ohio (BIA), the region needs 14,000 new housing units annually through 2032 to meet demand. However, current housing production falls short, contributing to rising home prices and rental costs (BIA).

A separate study by the Affordable Housing Alliance of Central Ohio (AHACO) indicates that more than 54% of Central Ohio homeowners and 61% of renters are spending more than 30% of their income on housing costs—exceeding the recommended affordability threshold (AHACO).

The Current State of Affordable Housing in Central Ohio

The shortage of affordable homes has led to a surge in homelessness, with Franklin County reporting a 24% increase in the last two years. The Community Shelter Board found that in Columbus alone, 2,380 people experienced homelessness in 2023, marking an all-time high (Axios Columbus).

Local leaders are aware of the crisis. In response, Mayor Andrew Ginther has emphasized the need for "regional collaboration to address housing affordability and prevent displacement." This has led to initiatives such as the Regional Housing Coalition, aimed at expanding and diversifying the city’s housing infrastructure (Columbus.gov).

Key Factors Driving the Housing Shortage

1. Housing Production Lagging Behind Growth

   • Columbus is one of the fastest-growing metro areas in the Midwest, adding nearly 500,000 residents since 2010. However, housing construction has not kept pace, leading to increased competition and price inflation.

2. Economic Pressures and Corporate Development

   • The cost of home construction has increased significantly due to higher material costs, labor shortages, and land-use regulations.

   • The expansion of major corporations, including Intel and Amazon, has further driven demand for housing, particularly in suburban areas where new employees are seeking homes (Axios Columbus).

3. Rising Rent and Home Prices

   • The median home price in Columbus has jumped 36% since 2019, while rent prices have increased by an average of 18% in the last two years. The lack of affordable rental units has left many lower-income families struggling to find stable housing (Affordable Housing Trust).

Impact on Low-Income and Vulnerable Populations

Housing affordability is particularly challenging for Black and Latino residents, who are more likely to be rent-burdened. The Community Shelter Board reports that Black residents make up 69% of Columbus' homeless population, despite representing only 29% of the city's total population (Axios Columbus).

As a commissioner on the Livingston Avenue Area Commission (LAVA-C), I have attended multiple community discussions where residents express concerns over gentrification, rising property taxes, and lack of affordable rental options. Many long-time homeowners in historically lower-income neighborhoods fear displacement as property values surge.

Community Initiatives and Solutions

Local leaders and organizations are taking steps to address the crisis:

• The Regional Housing Coalition was launched to coordinate efforts between government agencies, nonprofits, and private developers to increase housing production and affordability (Columbus.gov).

• The Affordable Housing Trust for Columbus and Franklin County has provided over $450 million in financing for affordable housing projects, helping to create and preserve thousands of units (Affordable Housing Trust).

• The Affordable Housing Alliance of Central Ohio has outlined a strategic plan focused on optimizing housing development, increasing homeownership, and stabilizing renters (AHACO).

Call to Action: What Can Be Done?

The housing crisis will require continued public and private collaboration. Residents can:

• Advocate for zoning reforms that allow for more mixed-income housing developments.

• Support nonprofit housing initiatives such as Habitat for Humanity MidOhio, which helps families achieve affordable homeownership (Habitat MidOhio).

• Engage with local commissions like LAVA-C, which work to ensure that community voices are heard in housing decisions.

Conclusion

The affordable housing shortage in Central Ohio is a pressing issue, but strategic investments, policy changes, and community-driven initiatives offer hope for a more balanced housing market. As the city continues to grow, it is essential to ensure that housing remains accessible to all residents, not just those who can afford rising prices.

For those interested in discussing homeownership opportunities or affordable housing solutions, feel free to reach out. Let’s work together to make housing in Central Ohio more sustainable.