Is it easy to get your own apartment in Poznan? An analysis of affordability of housing compared to the largest cities in Poland

Abstract

Ensuring housing affordability is one of the key socio-economic challenges of today. It also reflects the quality of life in a city and region. In recent years, the issue of affordability has become increasingly important, particularly in view of demographic changes and the need for sustainable development of the housing market. Changes in the market, both in terms of economic conditions and legal regulations and housing policy, are changing the dynamics of housing affordability, both for purchase and for rent. These changes are taking place both in Poland and throughout the European Union. The article describes the importance of housing both as a basic human need and in satisfying higher-order needs. It also points to the economic and social significance of housing. It also defines what housing affordability is and what determines it. Next, the housing situation in Poznań is presented in comparison with the largest cities in Poland in terms of the number of dwellings per 1,000 inhabitants, basic indicators related to the housing stock, and the structure of the stock being put into use. The main objective was to assess housing affordability in Poznań in comparison with the largest cities in Poland, preceded by the definition of housing affordability measures, both in the context of purchasing and renting a flat. Housing affordability indicators such as the ratio of purchase price to income, the number of years of work needed to purchase a flat, and rent levels will allow for an assessment of the situation in Poznań and its level compared to other cities.