Micro and Macro Habitability Factors Associated with Resident Well-Being in Affordable Housing

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between the habitability of affordable housing and the perceived well-being of low-income households in Oklahoma. While extensive research has explored the impact of housing on people's health, there is a significant gap in understanding how comprehensive design aspects of affordable habitability influence residents’ satisfaction and quality of life. Employing a multi-scale approach, this research analyzes habitability features at both a micro-level – unit features (e.g., typology, affordability, and tenure) and interior design parameters (e.g., spatial adequacy, design/functionality, and indoor environmental quality) – and macro-level – neighborhood characteristics (e.g., amenities and accessibility). This research also compares single-family and middle-housing options to provide affordable, satisfying, and equitable living solutions suited to each typology.Data was gathered through physical and online surveys from 215 residents with experience living in affordable housing in Oklahoma, including middle-housing residents (n = 50) and single-family home residents (n = 165). A mixed-methods approach was used, combining quantitative correlation analysis and qualitative thematic analysis. Correlation analysis revealed significant relationships between residents’ well-being and various habitability features, including unit features (single-family housing r = .562, ***p < 0.001, middle housing r = .698, ***p < 0.001), interior design parameters (single-family housing r = .764, ***p < 0.001, middle housing r = .859, ***p < 0.001) and neighborhood characteristics (single-family housing r = .599, ***p < 0.001, middle housing r = .495, ***p < 0.001). Comparison analysis revealed that unit features and interior design parameters exhibited stronger correlations with well-being among middle-housing residents than among single-family housing residents. Meanwhile, neighborhood characteristics were more relevant to the well-being of single-family home residents than those in middle housing. Additionally, thematic analysis identified key themes that enriched and contextualized the quantitative findings. This investigation offers user-oriented design strategies for designers to enhance habitability and improve the well-being of residents in affordable housing. The design recommendations emphasize residents’ satisfaction, equity perception, and quality of life while also considering aspects such as privacy, place attachment, safety, social interaction, and sense of community.