Trend

Refugee and Immigrant Housing Needs

Trend Universe Growing Housing Needs for Refugees and Immigrants
The ongoing housing crisis has made it difficult to provide adequate and safe shelter for an influx of recent refugees and migrants in major U.S. cities like Chicago. Jamie Kelter Davis/The New York Times.

About This Trend

The growing arrival of refugees and immigrants in the U.S. has further stressed limited housing supplies, especially in major cities and "sanctuary cities" that choose not to participate in immigration enforcement efforts. As the number of newcomers rises, local governments face the daunting task of managing this influx.

Though some cities have resorted to temporary housing measures, there is a pressing need for the development of permanent housing infrastructure to adequately integrate these new arrivals. The situation is further complicated by NIMBYism, as residents resist the accommodation of refugees and the allocation of funds towards migrant support.

Planners should be prepared for this demanding situation, which highlights the critical need for collaborative efforts at all levels of government to effectively address the housing requirements of newcomers in the U.S.

Trend Reports

2025 Trend Report for Planners Cover
2024 Trend Report for Planners Cover
2023 Trend Report for Planners Cover
2022 Trend Report for Planners Cover
APA's foresight research is made possible in part through our partnership with the Lincoln Institute of Land Policy.