FAQ
Isn't there already a lot of available housing?
Look at the data and draw your own conclusions!
Low Vacancy Rates Indicate a Tight Market
Vacant units aren’t the same as available or livable units.
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According to the 2020 U.S. Census, Haverhill’s rental vacancy rate was just 3.3%, which is far below what experts consider a “healthy” rate (typically 5–8%).
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Many "vacant" units are:
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In uninhabitable condition
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Held off the market by owners
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Seasonal, under renovation, or used as short-term rentals
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See the data yourself:
Prices Are Rising Because Supply Is Low
If we truly had an abundance of housing, prices wouldn’t be rising so fast.
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In Haverhill, rents have increased 86% and home prices 101% since 2000 — far outpacing wage growth.
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This is a direct result of supply not keeping up with demand.
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Studies consistently show that building more housing, even market-rate, helps reduce pressure on rents in surrounding areas.
See the data yourself:
What Exists Doesn’t Match What People Need
Even when homes are technically “available,” they may not meet the needs of the population:
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Many are too expensive for average households
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Large homes dominate the market while demand is growing for starter homes, small multifamily units, and affordable rentals
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Seniors may be “stuck” in large homes they’d like to downsize from, but there are no smaller affordable options nearby
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This mismatch leaves young people, working families, and older adults without real options.
See the data yourself:
Displacement Is Rising
Housing turnover in Haverhill is increasingly driven by economic pressure:
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Families are being displaced due to rent increases, lack of lease renewals, or being priced out of home purchases
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A recent CHAPA report shows rising housing insecurity across Gateway Cities like Haverhill. More families are being priced out of their homes due to rent increases, speculative sales, and lack of tenant protections.
See the data yourself: