Housing Losses in the 2010s

In a new white paper, we examine recently-released Census data that shows more than half of all U.S. counties experienced a net-loss of housing units between 2010 and 2020. Classifying these net-loss counties by their metropolitan status (large metro center cities, large metro suburban, small metro, and non-metro) and other characteristics, the paper considers what is driving these losses, even as the nation struggles with a shortage of available and affordable housing elsewhere. The paper concludes with a discussion of some policy implications for further understanding and mitigating these losses, both to help preserve essential housing and meet the changing needs of households and communities.