96% of US Mayors Cite Housing Costs as Core Affordability Crisis Driver
Washington – September 20, 2026 -- Ninety-six percent of surveyed U.S. mayors say their residents are very or extremely concerned about the affordability crisis, according to a National Affordability Survey released by the U.S. Conference of Mayors (USCM). The survey, described as the most comprehensive affordability study ever produced by the Conference, polled 113 mayors across 39 states and Puerto Rico, representing roughly 34.1 million Americans.
Housing costs top the list of concerns, mayors report
Ninety-six percent of respondents identified untenable housing costs as the primary driver of the affordability crisis. Nearly 93% reported a rising cost of living in their cities over the past year, with 39% saying conditions have significantly worsened. Groceries, utilities, childcare, transportation and healthcare costs were also cited as contributing pressures.