Rhode Island Housing Count Methodology Update Increases Units

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Diverse affordable housing options in Rhode Island promoting community inclusivity.

News Summary

A recent revision in Rhode Island’s Low and Moderate Income Housing counting methodology has added 6,662 units over the past year. This move broadens the scope of eligible housing, integrating federal rental assistance and mobile homes. As a result, the number of municipalities meeting the 10 percent low-income housing target has doubled, promoting increased accessibility to affordable housing across the state. This change not only reflects a statistical adjustment but highlights efforts to address housing inequality in Rhode Island.

Providence, Rhode Island – A recent revision in the methodology for counting Low and Moderate Income Housing units in Rhode Island has resulted in a significant increase in housing availability. Released on June 9, the latest report from RIhousing illustrates that the new counting method has added 6,662 “countable units” within the past year. This change comes following a period during which the previous counting approach showed a slight decrease of 97 housing units.

The new methodology encompasses federal rental assistance vouchers and certain mobile and manufactured homes, allowing for a broader scope in identifying eligible housing units. As Rhode Island continues to focus on increasing accessibility to affordable housing, the revised counting method plays a pivotal role in tracking the state’s progress towards its housing goals.

Rhode Island has established a target to ensure that at least 10 percent of all year-round housing units qualify as low and moderate income housing. This objective remains a priority for state officials and lends context to the recent statistical adjustments. As of 2024, the number of municipalities achieving this goal has increased to eight, thereby doubling the count from 2023.

Among the municipalities that have reached or exceeded the 10 percent threshold in both 2023 and 2024 are Newport, Central Falls, Providence, and Woonsocket. In addition to these cities, four other municipalities—Burrillville, East Providence, Pawtucket, and West Warwick—joined the list in 2024, indicating a broader commitment across the state to improve the availability of low and moderate income housing options.

The increase in counted units, particularly under the new methodology, reflects not just a statistical adjustment but also highlights ongoing efforts to ensure more residents have access to affordable housing. The infusion of previously uncounted housing types, such as those utilizing federal rental assistance, is crucial to painting an accurate picture of the resources available to low-income residents.

This upward trend in housing counts comes during a time when the demand for affordable housing has surged, due in part to economic conditions and growing awareness of housing inequality. By recognizing a more extensive range of housing options, the new methodology aims to elevate the standards of living for low and moderate income families throughout the state.

Rhode Island’s commitment to the goal of 10 percent of year-round housing being designated as low and moderate income is underscored by the concerted efforts by local governments and housing agencies alike. By identifying municipalities that meet these criteria, state officials can better allocate resources and develop strategies that bolster the construction and availability of affordable housing.

The substantial increase in reported housing units is a clear indicator of progress, but it also emphasizes the need for continued vigilance and action. As local governments work to implement policies that promote affordable housing, the state’s overall housing strategy must remain flexible and responsive to changing economic conditions and demographic needs.

Looking forward, as Rhode Island continues to refine its housing policies, the revised counting methodology represents a foundational change in how affordable housing is approached. This advancement brings hope for many residents in need of stable and affordable living conditions, pointing towards a more inclusive future for communities across the state.