The project focuses on analyzing public housing data and field research data on student housing in the City Mississauga to develop evidence-based policy recommendations designed to improve student housing affordability and availability municipally.

With rising costs of living, post-secondary students face significant challenges in securing safe, secure, and affordable housing on/near campus. This project aims to assess public housing data, analyzing field research data collected by HOUSE, identifying students housing needs and challenges in the housing markets, and propose data-driven recommendations for municipal policy improvements. Researchers will utilize their knowledge of data analysis, urban planning, and economic principles to evaluate housing trends and affordability metrics. The goal is to develop and research report and provide actionable insights that can inform local policymakers and stakeholders in creating more affordable housing solutions for students. This analysis will contribute to a broader understanding of housing affordability issues in urban settings and support efforts to enhance student living conditions.

Research activities will include:

1. Analyzing publicly available housing data from the CMHC, and over 32,500 data points collected through field research by HOUSE;
2. Conducting cross-referential and regressive analyses of student housing data to identify student in Core Housing Need in Mississauga;
3. Developing a comprehensive research report which maps key insights and evidence-based recommendations based on existing municipal policy;
4. Developing a policy brief which summarize evidence-based recommendations to improve student housing affordability and availability on/off-campus.

The project will culminate in a comprehensive report detailing the findings of the housing affordability analysis. This report will include data visualizations, key insights, and strategic recommendations for policymakers. Additionally, a presentation summarizing the analysis and recommendations will be prepared for stakeholders. The deliverables aim to provide clear, actionable guidance to improve student housing affordability in Mississauga.

Project deliverables include:

1. Comprehensive report with data visualizations and insights;
2. Policy brief with strategic recommendations for municipal policy development;
3. Presentation for stakeholders summarizing findings and recommendations;
4. Social media assets to promote research findings.