Household income as a criterion for granting municipal housing assistance – a case study of a large city in Poland
Household income as a criterion for granting municipal housing assistance – a case study of a large city in Poland

Summary/Abstract: RESEARCH OBJECTIVE: The article aims to develop a model for determining the income threshold that qualifies households for municipal housing assistance in Poznań, Poland. The paper discusses the housing problem, housing affordability, and proposes a model for estimating income eligibility. THE RESEARCH PROBLEM AND METHODS: The study examines public housing assistance and the criteria for granting it. It employs a literature review and critical analysis. The proposed model is grounded in the housing affordability index and household budget surveys. Quantitative data comes from the Poland Statistics, National Bank of Poland, Supreme Audit Office, Eurostat, academic studies, and market reports. THE PROCESS OF ARGUMENTATION: The model is developed based on a diagnosis of the current housing situation in Poland and identification of municipalities’ core challenge: providing housing support using objective and transparent criteria. Household income is adopted as the primary eligibility criterion. Two variants of determining the income threshold are created, allowing municipalities to assess whether households qualify for assistance. RESEARCH RESULTS: Option 1 estimates the income threshold entitling households to apply for municipal housing, based on an affordability index ≥4.0 (housing unaffordability). Option 2 sets the threshold for purchasing a flat on the market, derived from market data and budget surveys. Findings suggest that support should focus particularly on single-person, two-person, five or more households, and single parents with children. CONCLUSIONS, INNOVATIONS, AND RECOMMENDATIONS: The income criterion combined with the affordability index constitutes an objective tool for evaluating household financial capacity and identifying those requiring housing support. Nevertheless, municipalities should supplement these measures with qualitative assessments. Households with an affordability index ≥4.0 can be considered in need of assistance, but thresholds must be adjusted to local housing policies, municipal finances, and available housing. Effective support requires an individualised approach aligned with local conditions and needs.

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