Squamish Housing Needs Report
In 2022, District of Squamish retained CitySpaces Consulting to prepare a Housing Needs Report in accordance with Provincial legislation. The Report builds on previous housing studies and engagement initiatives completed in Squamish over the past ten years. Key findings include:
- Squamish was the fastest-growing census metropolitan area (CMA) in British Columbia between 2016 and 2021;
- As more people continue to make Squamish their home, housing pressures intensify and the narrative of Squamish as a more affordable community is challenged;
- Core housing need data illustrates the extent of the challenges facing renters, as limited housing choice has left many renter households living in unaffordable or overcrowded housing; and
- Seniors are challenged to find housing with support services.
The report findings provide Council and staff with a better understanding of Squamish’s housing needs and gaps and outline opportunities and focus areas for development decisions and policy formulation.
Initial project stages focused on data analysis and public engagement. In addition to quantitative data, consultation activities in Fall 2022 allowed for robust discussion and information exchange. CitySpaces facilitated a virtual workshop and convened key informant interviews to hear from local organizations, rights holders, and service providers. The sessions provided a fulsome understanding of the community’s housing story, which served as the backbone of the Report. Distinct household profiles were drafted to represent ‘typical’ experiences of local residents; these narratives showcase the challenges residents are experiencing in trying to find affordable, adequate, and suitable housing. As Squamish navigates the challenges facing many communities across the Lower Mainland, it will be important to explore ways to support new rental and non-market development to ensure low- and moderate-income households can afford to remain in the community.
Read the report here.
CLIENT: District of Squamish
