Affordable Housing Policies and Homelessness Outcomes in the United States of America: A Systematic Review

This systematic review explicitly addresses the question: “What is the impact of affordable housing policies on homelessness outcomes in the United States?” using the PICO framework: Population – homeless or housing-insecure individual in the U.S.; Intervention – affordable housing policies or programs; Comparison – varying program models or no available intervention; Outcome – reduction of homeless, stability of housing, eviction rates. This review synthesizes available evidence from qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods studies to identify the best practices, ongoing challenges, and offers insights to guide policymakers and practitioners in developing equitable and sustainable strategies to reduce homeless across the U.S. Despite numerous federal, state, and local initiatives, including housing vouchers, rapid rehousing, supportive housing, and the Housing First model, homelessness remains a persistent challenge influenced by structural, administrative, social, legal, and cultural barriers. Key factors affecting policy effectiveness include funding stability, administrative simplification, integration of supportive services, tenant empowerment, coordination across agencies, and tailored interventions for diverse populations. Legal protections and efforts to reduce community stigma are also critical for housing stability. This review synthesizes evidence from quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods studies to identify best practices and ongoing challenges, offering actionable insights to guide policymakers and practitioners in developing equitable, sustainable strategies to reduce homelessness nationwide.

Affordable Housing, Homelessness, policy coordination, legal protection, United States

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