Poll: Most Rhode Islanders Say the Cost of Homes is a Major Problem
The poll results may be downloaded here:
PROVIDENCE, RI - Seventy-eight percent (78%) of Rhode Islanders say that there are too few homes in their community that average people can afford, according to a new poll commissioned by Neighbors Welcome! Rhode Island (Neighbors Welcome) and conducted by YouGov Blue, which surveyed 602 registered voters between February 21st and March 5th, 2025. More than half of respondents (57%) identified the cost of housing as the most important issue facing the state today–more than any other issue by a significant margin.
In addition, the poll reveals the level of public support for various policy strategies to accelerate housing production and address the housing shortage.
On March 18th at [3:15 PM], Neighbors Welcome and guests will gather at the State House to present the poll findings and the organization’s 2025 policy platform for building more homes.
“Rhode Island does not have enough homes to rent or buy that meet people’s budgets. Residents are forced to compete against one another for limited opportunities,” says Claudia Wack, Neighbors Welcome President. “Allowing more homes of all shapes and sizes will provide relief, and these poll findings reflect that Rhode Islanders support their elected officials taking action.”
The press conference will immediately follow a State House rally in support of a proposed legislation on Just Cause Eviction, underscoring the strain felt by Rhode Islanders in the face of rising housing costs.
“All Rhode Islanders deserve to live in quality homes in safe and thriving neighborhoods.” says State Representative June Speakman, who will be in attendance. “We must address the regulatory impediments to home construction and be creative and deliberate in our approach to development.”
More information on the 2025 legislation featured in the Neighbors Welcome policy platform can be found here:
Speakers at the press conference will include members of Neighbors Welcome! RI leadership team, Representative Speakman, Senator Jake Bissaillon, Senator Mack, and Representative Cruz.
“Rhode Island faces a housing crisis that has been caused by decades of underinvestment and outmoded approaches to land use planning and development,” said Senator Jake Bissaillon. "The resulting shortage of homes and rental opportunities now threatens the health and economic well-being of communities throughout our state, so I am grateful that Neighbors Welcome RI has set forth a legislative agenda this year that prioritizes housing accessibility, developing underutilized land, and building more vibrant communities.”
