Fact Books

The Housing Fact Book is an annual publication presented by HousingWorks RI at Roger Williams University that outlines housing affordability data for Rhode Island's 39 municipalities.

The goal of this annual publication is to provide the consumer with easy-to-understand information, as well as a tool to inform local and state decision-makers on the importance of an integrated approach to improving housing affordability in Rhode Island.

The 2025 RI Life Index reports that cost of living and housing affordability remain top concerns for Rhode Islanders, demonstrating a persistent and significant mismatch between housing costs and residents’ incomes. The new laws primarily address regulatory changes to municipal land use and planning, and while there is an upturn in building permits, it will take years for these permits to become homes. Moreover, even as building permits and diverse housing options multiply, advocates still face the headwinds of municipal opposition and objections to the amount of money spent on building affordable homes.

The 2026 Housing Fact Book (.PDF) reviews increased cost burdens and insecurities, the particular needs of older adults, post-pandemic household and education trends, and two things still keeping Rhode Island from having a truly effective housing toolbox: a strategic transportation network that enhances development opportunities, and the lack of a permanent and predictable funding stream that developers of affordable homes can rely on. As always, the Housing Fact Book strives to illuminate how these factors are interrelated with housing and affect our collective health, workforce, and future.

Since 2021, the state has relied on $332.2M of State Fiscal Recovery Funds from the federal American Rescue Plan Act. The state funds that Rhode Island provides for housing and homelessness services compare poorly across the New England region, specifically against our two closest neighbors. This November, voters will have a chance to invest in affordable homes by supporting another housing bond that will create more opportunities for Rhode Islanders to live in healthy, affordable homes. A permanent and predictable funding stream is the best longterm strategy, but the upcoming bond is our best chance to meet Rhode Island’s housing needs in real time.