Habitat for Humanity report: 75% of people cut essential spending for housing

A new global report by Habitat for Humanity International, titled ‘Home at What Cost?’, reveals that 75 per cent of respondents worldwide have reduced essential spending in the past year to cover housing costs.

The study, based on surveys of 30,000 people across 22 countries, highlights significant trade-offs made by households. Approximately 30 per cent of respondents reported spending less on food or utilizing emergency savings, while 13 per cent delayed or avoided necessary medical care due to housing expenses.

The impact is particularly acute among vulnerable groups, including low-income families, those in informal housing, and younger generations such as Gen Z and Millennials. In Africa, rapid urbanization and climate risks are exacerbating these pressures. The research also notes long-term socioeconomic consequences, with 58 per cent of parents stating that housing costs limit opportunities for their children, and 56 per cent of respondents indicating that housing costs make starting a family difficult.