Habitat for Humanity International’s global housing research report, ‘Home at What Cost?’, released in Nairobi on Monday, highlights that 89% of Kenyan respondents are sacrificing basic needs to meet housing costs, according to a survey conducted between April and June 2026. The study, part of a 22-country analysis involving 1,400 Kenyan participants, found that 55% of households fear financial shocks could jeopardize their housing stability, while 55% have accepted unsafe living conditions due to unaffordable alternatives. Eileen Mokaya, National Director of Habitat for Humanity Kenya, emphasized the urgent need for affordable housing solutions, stating, “Every family deserves a safe, decent, and affordable place to call home.” The report coincided with World Habitat Day, themed ‘Adequate Housing for All.’
The survey underscores Kenya’s acute housing shortage, with an annual deficit of 250,000 units despite producing only 50,000. Over 44% of Kenyans expressed dissatisfaction with their housing, exceeding the global average of 35%, while 72% felt secure in their homes, below the global 86%. Renters faced the heaviest burden, with 48% reducing food spending and 65% taking on extra work to cover costs. Nearly 60% of respondents cited housing expenses as a barrier to starting families, while 61% of parents said costs limited their children’s opportunities. Mental health impacts were also significant, with 41% citing housing as a major stressor, compared to a global average of 35%.
Habitat for Humanity Kenya’s initiatives, including climate-smart construction and community-driven housing models, aim to address these challenges. Mokaya called for collaboration among governments, private sectors, and development partners to expand access to resilient housing. Abi Riak, Habitat for Humanity’s Area Vice President for Africa, warned against forcing families to choose between housing and essentials, stating, “Adequate housing is foundational to health, economic opportunity, and sustainable urban growth.” The report also noted that 75% of global respondents cut essential expenses to afford housing, with 30% reducing food spending and 13% delaying medical care.
Despite the crisis, 88% of Kenyans remain optimistic about future housing improvements, though 44% express dissatisfaction. The findings highlight systemic gaps in Kenya’s housing sector, where 2 million homes are needed. Stakeholders continue to advocate for policy reforms and increased investment to bridge the deficit, as the survey underscores the human cost of unaffordable housing on families’ financial, emotional, and social well-being.