What Is Workforce Housing?

The definition of workforce housing in Hawaii varies from island to island. In general, workforce housing is considered to be affordable housing for households with earned income that is insufficient to secure quality housing in reasonable proximity to the workplace. In Honolulu, workforce housing is defined as housing that is affordable to households earning between 60% and 140% of the area median income (AMI). In Maui, workforce housing is defined as housing that is affordable to households earning between 50% and 140% of the AMI.

Workforce housing is often targeted at essential workers, such as teachers, firefighters, and nurses. This is because these workers often have lower incomes than other professionals, but they are still essential to the functioning of the community. Workforce housing can help to ensure that these workers can afford to live in the communities where they work.

Workforce housing can be developed by both public and private entities. Public entities, such as the state or county government, can develop workforce housing using tax credits or other subsidies. Private entities, such as developers or builders, can also develop workforce housing, but they may need to charge higher rents or prices to make a profit.

Workforce housing is an important part of the solution to the affordable housing crisis in Hawaii. By providing affordable housing to essential workers, workforce housing can help to keep communities vibrant and resilient.

For more information about Workforce and Affordable Housing opportunities email info@OnePacificRealty.com.