Tennessee is experiencing a severe shortage of affordable housing, particularly for extremely low‑income renters. For every 100 eligible households, only 42 affordable rental homes are available. The state needs 128,000 more deeply affordable units to meet demand. Housing construction has not kept up with population growth, especially as Tennessee has attracted wealthier new residents and experienced regional migration since 2020.
High housing costs affect families across rural, suburban, and urban communities. When housing takes up more than 30–50% of household income, it leaves less available for food, transportation, healthcare, and savings.
In many parts of the state—especially Middle Tennessee—mortgage payments and rents have risen significantly since 2021, contributing to affordability challenges even for middle‑income households.
Housing stability is directly tied to workforce participation, school stability for children, and long‑term economic growth.
In many parts of the state—especially Middle Tennessee—mortgage payments and rents have risen significantly since 2021, contributing to affordability challenges even for middle‑income households.
Housing stability is directly tied to workforce participation, school stability for children, and long‑term economic growth.