New statewide polling conducted by the Colorado Health Foundation (CHF) mirrors our own local and regional concerns regarding the housing crisis. Nearly nine out of 10 respondents (89%) statewide rated the issue of housing affordability as an extreme or very serious problem. Because this crisis is so dire and pervasive it is on virtually everyone’s mind.

CHF is a statewide philanthropic organization that champions the overall health and well-being of every Coloradan by advocating for, and investing in, solutions and policies that drive health equity. CHF reports that concerns about housing affordability and the cost of living are higher than at any other time in the five-year history of its statewide polling. Their research confirmed that many Coloradans harbor serious doubt in their ability to own homes and their children’s ability to afford to remain in Colorado over the long term. In addition, respondents reported having to make hard choices and sacrifices about basic everyday needs, including healthcare and putting food on the table, because their housing costs are so out of whack.

Thirty-four percent of all respondents are worried that they might lose their home, have to downgrade their home, or be forced to move in the coming year because they can’t afford the monthly rent or mortgage. The associated anxiety, stress, and uncertainty have proven detrimental to the health and well-being of children and the stability of families, which in turn negatively impacts our communities, schools, businesses, and institutions at every level.