Housing Needs Assessment | Municipality of Brockton

Brockton has initiated a Housing Needs Assessment to examine types of development that will be the most beneficial for the community. This assessment will inform staff and developers not only what kind of housing units are needed, but provide a rough idea of where and how many units are needed to fill our 'missing middle'.

A Housing Needs Study provides data to support evidence-based decision making at the local level about infrastructure and housing investments in order to build the most suitable housing for the community.

The study will help to gather critical housing data to guide decisions on the type and location of housing to build, as well as the infrastructure needed to support community growth.

Throughout this process, we will be requesting information from residents, developers and other applicable parties. To participate, click the button to the right, to provide your opinion.

Provide Your Opinion

Quantitative Research

Economic data, population and household forecasts
• Percentage of households in core housing need based on income and housing tenure (rental vs. owner)
• Maximum affordable shelter costs
• Projected change in number of households by income category

Qualitative Research

Interviews, policy analysis, and stakeholder engagement
• Barriers to housing development in existing land use policy
• Personal experiences of housing need in Brockton
• Potential gaps in solutions proposed to address housing need

How will we get there?

This assessment will be completed in three phases:

Phase One: Background Research and Data Collection - We are here!

The first phase of our Housing Needs Assessment focuses on comprehensive data collection and trend analysis to establish a clear understanding of current and emerging housing challenges.

This initial stage gathers demographic, economic, and housing market data to identify key trends such as population growth, household composition changes, housing supply and affordability issues, and shifting community needs.

The findings will serve as the foundation for informed decision-making and targeted strategies in the subsequent phases of the assessment.

Phase Two: Stakeholder Engagement

The second phase of the Housing Needs Assessment centers on stakeholder engagement, building on insights gathered during the initial data and trend analysis.

This phase involves consultations with key community members, housing providers, local organizations, and government representatives to validate findings, gather lived experiences, and identify priorities and gaps not captured through data alone.

The input from these diverse voices will ensure the assessment reflects real-world challenges and supports the development of responsive, community-informed housing strategies.

Phase Three: Housing Needs Assessment Preparation

Phase three of the Housing Needs Assessment focuses on preparation of the final document, bringing together the findings from data analysis and stakeholder engagement into a comprehensive, accessible report.

This phase includes synthesizing quantitative and qualitative insights, identifying key housing issues and opportunities, and drafting clear, actionable recommendations. The document will be structured to support policy development, funding applications, and long-term planning, ensuring it is a practical tool for addressing current and future housing needs in the community.

This final outcomes from this phase will include:

- Virtual Council and Stakeholder Information Session
- Final Housing Needs Assessment Report

How can I help?

Your voice matters. By sharing your thoughts and experiences, you can help shape the Housing Needs Assessment to reflect the real housing challenges and priorities in our community. Public input is essential to ensure the final report is grounded in lived realities and responds to the needs of all residents.

Whether you're a renter, homeowner, service provider, or simply care about housing in our area, your opinion will contribute to creating effective, inclusive housing solutions for the future.

Stay tuned for upcoming public input opportunities.