This indicator is part of Safe, affordable housing.

Indicator description:

Substandard housing includesthose occupied residences which lack kitchen facilities and complete plumbing facilities. In order for plumbing to be considered complete, the residence must have hot and cold running water, a flush toilet and a bathtub or shower, all located within the dwelling. Albuquerque has the second lowest rate of occupied residences which lack complete kitchen facilities, and is the third lowest for residences lacking complete indoor plumbing facilities. Another hallmark of decent, safe housing is a reasonable occupancy rate, which is considered one person per indoor room. Albuquerque is tied for the lowest percent of residences which are considered overcrowded.

Why is this indicator relevant?

Overcrowding, along with substandard housing, are each health and safety concerns for any community. Substandard housing effects quality of life for residents, and also puts neighborhoods at risk. Substandard housing can lead to neighborhood blight, which includes high crime levels and other undesirable effects, including lower property values.

Data Source:
American Community Survey, US Census Bureau, 2002-2007.

What can we tell from the data?

• Albuquerque has a lower rate than most peer Southwest cities of housing that does not have complete kitchen or plumbing facilities.
• Albuquerque housing is not overcrowded compared to other Southwest cities.

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