Strategies to Achieve Affordable Housing

About Affordable Housing in Massachusetts


The most important thing to know about affordable housing is that there is not enough of it in many parts of the United States, including Massachusetts and Marblehead.  This shortage affects all citizens and taxpayers, not just those who need affordable housing.  The need for affordable housing in Marblehead clearly exists and the Fair Housing Committee has identified strategies to try to meet those needs.

A technical definition used by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts is:

"Affordable housing is housing affordable to those earning less than 80% of the median income, and subject to an affordability restriction lasting for at least 30 years."


Need for Affordable Housing in Marblehead


In Marblehead even a household earning the town's median income not only cannot afford to buy a median-priced home but cannot manage even the least expensive three-bedroom home.

The topic is a complex one.  There are multiple causes of the shortage.  There are scores of organizations and resourcres for applicants, for community leaders and civic officials and for individuals and organizations interested in working to meet the need.


Why Worry About Affordable Housing?

Our Strategies to Meet the Need