Story perspectives

Massachusetts Housing Crisis: Only 1 in 7 Can Afford

11/13/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Massachusetts faces ongoing housing affordability challenges as only one in seven renter households in Greater Boston can afford entry-level homes.
Affordability has worsened since the pandemic, even as the state built nearly 98,000 housing units since 2020.
New housing permits have dropped significantly, raising concerns about future construction.
In Berkshire County, zoning restrictions and high costs complicate affordable housing, prompting some business owners to invest in employee housing.

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Story summary

Massachusetts faces ongoing housing affordability challenges as only one in seven renter households in Greater Boston can afford entry-level homes.
Affordability has worsened since the pandemic, even as the state built nearly 98,000 housing units since 2020.
New housing permits have dropped significantly, raising concerns about future construction.
In Berkshire County, zoning restrictions and high costs complicate affordable housing, prompting some business owners to invest in employee housing.