A new study shows 50 percent of children in the U.S. are growing up in hardship. That means tens of millions live in households struggling to afford the basics, including housing, child care, food, transportation, health care, technology and taxes. In Kentucky, it’s 51 percent of children — slightly higher than the national average.
At United Way of Greater Cincinnati, we know safe, stable and affordable housing is critical for all families, whether they rent or own. A recalibrated approach to housing in Northern Kentucky would benefit health outcomes, educational achievements and workforce capabilities.
In our community, housing costs are rising faster than wages. Employers have many jobs to fill, but there’s an inadequate supply of housing options priced appropriately for families across our region, including low-wage earners.
That’s among the findings of the Northern Kentucky Housing Data Study. Thanks to partners such as the Northern Kentucky Area Development District (NKADD), Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, Brighton Center, LISC and others, we have a better understanding of current and projected housing shortcomings.
The report highlights a major gap for renters in households that make less than $49,000 a year – like childcare workers, firefighters and medical assistants. For example, the marketplace is short about 3,000 two-bedroom units priced for those earning between $35,000 and $49,000 a year.
The disparity isn’t limited to renters. Households making less than $49,000 struggle to find homes they can afford to buy.
Homeownership isn’t just about having a place to live — it’s a powerful tool for building wealth, grounding families in stability and empowering future generations. But whether families rent or own, the report shows income-aligned housing options are lacking.
We can’t fix this overnight, but we can start chipping away and supporting proven strategies. It starts with a solid foundation.
As United Way of Greater Cincinnati continues to be a part of the conversation about income-aligned housing in Northern Kentucky, we will work to build comprehensive strategies to support our community’s needs.
I’m always impressed by our community’s willingness to take on big challenges. We bring passion, intelligence and creativity to tackle some of our community’s most persistent issues. We’re willing to deeply explore what’s happening and identify effective solutions.
Meaningful transformation occurs when communities build civic infrastructure that enables all — especially those who are under-resourced — the same opportunities to reach their full potential and prosper.
The housing study reveals clear opportunities to inspire a greater sense of belonging, to align the needs and resources of Northern Kentucky’s diverse and growing workforce, and to shape the future of our region.
Moira Weir is President & CEO of United Way of Greater Cincinnati