Assessing Housing Costs for Low Income Families in Cincinnati, Ohio
Start Date
April 2026
Location
3rd floor - Library
Abstract
This study examines the potential relationship between rental housing prices and the population of families experiencing homelessness in Cincinnati, Ohio, specifically within the 45237 area code. Using a descriptive research design, the study identifies trends over a five-year period by analyzing existing data on the average rental costs for 2 and 3 bedroom housing units along with annual reports of family populations served at Bethany House, the largest family homeless shelter in the area. The purpose of this research is to better understand whether increases in housing costs are associated with changes in shelter usage among families, which may provide valuable insights for social workers, community agencies, and housing advocates working to prevent homelessness.
A non-probability sampling strategy is used, focusing on one single family shelter to maintain practicality and relevance to the researcher’s professional context within the Stable Families program at Santa Maria in Price Hill. The theoretical population includes families in the Price Hill neighborhood, as many families live in that area. The actual study population expands to families residing within the 45237 area code. Data were collected from publicly available rental market sources and shelter impact reports. Findings from this study may help inform local interventions, distribution of resources, and policy decisions aimed at stabilizing housing for vulnerable families.
Assessing Housing Costs for Low Income Families in Cincinnati, Ohio
3rd floor - Library
This study examines the potential relationship between rental housing prices and the population of families experiencing homelessness in Cincinnati, Ohio, specifically within the 45237 area code. Using a descriptive research design, the study identifies trends over a five-year period by analyzing existing data on the average rental costs for 2 and 3 bedroom housing units along with annual reports of family populations served at Bethany House, the largest family homeless shelter in the area. The purpose of this research is to better understand whether increases in housing costs are associated with changes in shelter usage among families, which may provide valuable insights for social workers, community agencies, and housing advocates working to prevent homelessness.
A non-probability sampling strategy is used, focusing on one single family shelter to maintain practicality and relevance to the researcher’s professional context within the Stable Families program at Santa Maria in Price Hill. The theoretical population includes families in the Price Hill neighborhood, as many families live in that area. The actual study population expands to families residing within the 45237 area code. Data were collected from publicly available rental market sources and shelter impact reports. Findings from this study may help inform local interventions, distribution of resources, and policy decisions aimed at stabilizing housing for vulnerable families.
