Where should Canada look to improve its housing situation? The answer may shock you

Canada’s housing crisis is an increasingly pressing issue, and experts are urging the nation to consider a surprising source of inspiration: Europe. European cities like Vienna and Amsterdam have adopted innovative housing policies that focus on affordability, community living, and sustainability, offering valuable lessons for Canada. These models prioritize long-term affordability by involving public ownership, cooperative housing, and regulations that keep rents stable over decades.

One standout example is Vienna’s social housing system, where nearly 60% of residents live in publicly subsidized apartments. These developments are not just affordable but also attract middle-income residents, creating mixed communities that avoid economic segregation. Unlike Canada, where housing investments often focus on short-term profits, Vienna’s approach keeps affordability central, ensuring housing stability across generations.

Amsterdam offers another effective model. The Dutch city has implemented strict rent controls and emphasizes cooperative housing. Residents often co-own their buildings and manage them collectively, fostering a sense of shared responsibility and reducing costs. For Canada, adopting similar community-driven approaches could create more inclusive urban environments.

Critics argue that implementing such systems in Canada would face challenges. The country’s housing policies are deeply tied to market forces, and political will is often lacking. However, advocates believe that bold changes, inspired by Europe, could address the affordability gap and ensure more Canadians have secure, affordable homes.

Canada’s current reliance on private developers and real estate markets has often exacerbated the housing crisis. Learning from European models could shift the focus toward creating housing as a public good, rather than a commodity. Public-private partnerships and increased government investment might pave the way for such transformations.

To truly solve the housing crisis, Canada may need to rethink its approach entirely. Borrowing from Europe’s playbook could lead to innovative solutions that prioritize people over profits, providing the affordable, sustainable housing Canadians need.