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A Message to our Community
We, the people of Nanaimo, are facing a critical challenge that affects us all: the growing housing crisis. Too many of our neighbours, friends, and family members are struggling to keep a safe, stable, and affordable place to live. This is not just a problem for those experiencing homelessness; it’s a problem that impacts the economic and social fabric of our community.
The Growing Burden of Housing Costs
The challenge of housing affordability is reaching a critical threshold for a significant portion of our community. Out of 14,380 renter households, an estimated 50% to 80% are now living under financial strain, with between 7,190 and 11,504 homes forced to allocate more than 30% of their gross income toward accommodation. Even more concerning is the depth of this crisis for the most vulnerable: 30% of all renter households—totaling more than 4,300 homes—are now severely cost-burdened, spending more than half of their total paycheque just to keep a roof over their heads. These figures underscore an urgent need for sustainable housing solutions that ensure no resident is forced to choose between paying rent and meeting their basic daily needs.
The Reality of the Housing Challenge
You have seen the increasing number of people living on our streets. But the crisis goes much deeper. Many Nanaimo residents are:
- Struggling to afford rent: A large portion of our income is spent on keeping a roof over our heads, leaving little for other essentials like food, personal care and transportation.
- Living in inadequate conditions: Some folks are forced to live in overcrowded or poorly maintained housing that jeopardizes their health and safety.
- One step away from homelessness: Job loss, illness, or even a rent increase can push people into homelessness.
- Part of the hidden homeless: Many of us are temporarily staying with family or friends because we can’t find our own place at a price we can afford.
- Seeing our children at risk: Child poverty rates in Nanaimo are alarming, and this is directly linked to housing instability.
Here's what Nanaimo's numbers tell us:
About 39% of renters spend 30% or more of their income on rent.
The average market rent of $1,716 consumes 42.1% of the average single earner's gross income.
$1,222 is the average single income maximum affordable rent. $1,716 is the average 1-bedroom market rent.
Approximately 4,300 households are renters in severe housing need.
Housing Nanaimo Working Group’s Purpose
Our purpose is to raise awareness and advocate for policies and actions that provide permanent solutions to the housing affordability crisis.
Join Us in Making a Difference
Your support can transform lives. Sign up for our upcoming events, volunteer your time, or do something else to help us advocate for affordable housing in our community. Every action counts. Together, we can create lasting change in peoples' lives.
