Report shows that since 2006 Habitat for Humanity’s home ownership program has boosted Canada’s GDP by $168 million in addition to delivering social and health benefits for families.
TORONTO, April 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Habitat for Humanity Canada, the country’s only national affordable homeownership organization, has released a report revealing a direct connection between Canada’s housing crisis and its growing productivity challenge. The study findings revealed that affordable home ownership unlocks 28% higher incomes compared to renting.
Canada is in the midst of an unprecedented affordable housing crisis. With home prices in major cities surpassing $1.1 million and rental costs reaching record highs, the dream of owning a home has slipped out of reach for too many Canadians. But this new research underscores that affordable homeownership is not just a social good—it’s a strategic economic tool.
Along with improved income, the study found that homeownership provides the foundation upon which many of the following improvements in quality of life and community engagement are built:
- 73% report their physical health is better
- 79% report better mental health
- 50% participate in more community events
- 50% say their children are doing better in school
- 51% feel more financially secure
These outcomes are tied to homeowners’ increased ability to invest in their careers, work more hours, and plan for the future, freed from the instability and stress of precarious housing.
“Homeownership should be within reach for working families—not just the privileged few,” said Pedro Barata, President & CEO, …