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The Social and Economic Impacts of Public Housing in the GTHA

The study projected five public housing investment scenarios across the GTHA through 2050. The strongest pathway or test, combined new construction with a renewal of existing stock. By 2050, that scenario would grow the regions public housing inventory from roughly 80,000 units today to more than 102,000 units, housing nearly 240,000 residents. Under a reduced funding scenario, the system shrinks from just 66,000 units and houses to only 152,000 people. Thats a difference of more than 86,000 residents. But the housing numbers aren't the most interesting parts of the study.

The report estimates that a combined construction and renewal pathway would generate $49.6 billion in cumulative GDP and support more than 354,000 job-years by 2050. Reduced funding cuts those figures to $12 billion and 111,000 job-years respectively. In simpler terms, the difference between building and not building shouldn't just be measured in total units but in a cumulative economic output.

The report also found that the strongest housing pathway would result in roughly 524,000 fewer hospital days, 156,000 fewer emergency department visits, and 44,000 fewer justice-system interactions relative to the status quo. It would also reduce homelessness by approx 4,700 people by 2050

It’s a useful reminder for an industry that is understandably hyper fixated on debating approvals and financing. Housing can be much more than just a shelter. In its entirety, it can shape healthcare systems, labour markets, public spending and economic growth.

One finding succinctly captures the debate: When comparing public housing investment against broader economic spending, the study found that new construction performed roughly 70 percent better than simply directing capital into the wider economy. Its really a remarkable claim.

Housing can sometimes be mistaken as a consequence of economic growth. Build up the economy first, create jobs and worry about housing after.

These findings emphasize the opposite. Toronto can’t afford not to build.