The severe housing crisis in North Carolina is characterized by high demand, rising costs, and a lack of affordable rental units, particularly for low-income earners. Rental vacancy rates are at their lowest in over a decade, resulting in higher eviction rates, increased homelessness, and substandard living conditions. Severe housing problems, including overcrowding, high housing costs, and inadequate facilities, impact 16.1% of households in the state. The situation is exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has magnified existing inequalities and put further pressure on housing markets.
Substandard housing is linked to disparate health outcomes, particularly in low-income areas. Health hazards include frequent changes of residence, mold, lead exposure, allergens, rodents and insects, pesticide residue, and indoor air pollution. Mental health issues can be especially pronounced among children living in these conditions.
The eviction crisis in North Carolina has serious consequences for individuals and communities, including family homelessness, residential instability, negative impacts on children’s education, and long-term financial difficulties. The COVID-19 pandemic has worsened the situation, with eviction filings increasing by 47% since the end of the CDC Eviction Moratorium in August 2021. To address these issues, a recent report by Carolina Forward calls for zoning reforms, removing planning barriers, expanding housing assistance programs, and blocking predatory institutional investors.
Read more: Sills, Stephen J. 2022. “The Status and Impact of Severe Housing Problems and Evictions in North Carolina.” North Carolina Medical Journal 83 (2): 94–98. https://doi.org/10.18043/ncm.83.2.94.
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