WASHINGTON— Preserving the nation’s public housing stock will require a $169.1 billion investment, according to a new analysis released today by the Public and Affordable Housing Research Corporation (PAHRC). The findings, part of the 10 Year Roadmap for Public Housing Sustainability, offer updated data on the costs of maintaining and modernizing the country’s 899,000 public housing units.
The roadmap, convened by the Council of Large Public Housing Authorities (CLPHA), brings together Congress, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), housing authorities, advocacy organizations, researchers, and residents to develop a long-term strategy for sustaining public housing.
“Public housing is a cornerstone of housing stability for more than 1.5 million people nationwide,” said Kelly McElwain, Manager of Research and Industry Intelligence at PAHRC. “This research provides a starting point for conversations about how to preserve these homes over the next decade and ensure they continue to serve families and communities well into the future.”
Key Findings
- The average preservation cost per unit is estimated at $188,090 in 2025 dollars.
- Costs vary widely: one-quarter of units fall below $87,701, while another quarter exceed $273,466.
- Actual preservation expenses could rise further to address energy efficiency, climate resilience, and regulatory compliance.
- Costs are influenced by factors such as property age, inspection scores, occupancy rates, number of bedrooms, building type, and regional construction costs.
- Data were drawn from public housing properties recently rehabilitated under HUD’s Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD) program.
The last national assessment of public housing capital needs was conducted in 2010. Since then, construction costs have increased and the housing landscape has shifted, making this updated analysis a critical tool for policymakers, housing authorities, and investors planning long-term preservation efforts.
“Preserving public housing is achievable—and housing authorities across the country are already proving what’s possible through creative partnerships and strategic planning,” said Cate Asp, Research Analyst at PAHRC. “Yet, to fully meet their preservation goals, PHAs will need more resources and support to strengthen their capacity.”
The 10 Year Roadmap for Public Housing Sustainability aims to provide a collaborative framework for understanding current needs, leveraging federal, state, and private funding, and developing strategies to sustain public housing for future generations.
The PAHRC report underscores that a significant, data-driven investment is essential to maintain safe, efficient, and resilient homes for millions of Americans who rely on public housing.
