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This is the first installment of Deep Dive: WFHB and Limestone Post Investigative where we look into issues regarding health, housing, and the environment that directly impact residents of Monroe County. This month we are looking into the housing crisis, next month we will address possible solutions.
The housing crisis we face is complex but can be broken down into three main categories. First, there is a high demand for rentals since Bloomington is a college town. Second, there is a lack of housing options or “housing supply” due to the 2008 recession which led to contractors and builders leaving the market and the ones that remained focused mainly on luxury homes to ensure a profit. Third, there is a lack of land available for building outside of Bloomington due to the region’s unique karst topography and rural zoning requirements.
According to Bloomington’s 2020 Housing Survey over 60 percent of renting households and nearly 30 percent of owner-occupied households in Bloomington are cost burdened, meaning approximately one-third of their income goes toward their rent and/or mortgage.
Tune in to the full show and visit the Limestone Post to read the full print version of the story.
