Victoria, BC– The Capital Regional District (CRD) has released a Housing and Transportation Cost Estimate Study examining combined housing and transportation costs as a measure of overall household affordability in the capital region.
Housing affordability has previously been measured by how much people pay for housing, and this measure alone may not accurately reflect the full cost of housing location choices. Transportation costs can be a major household expense depending on where one lives and if one owns a vehicle for primary transportation.
Overall, the study found that the combined housing and transportation costs vary depending on where people live in the region. The data suggest that transportation choice could save households money. Key study findings include:
- the cost of vehicle ownership is significant regardless of how much it is used;
- areas where there are older apartments and condominiums with longer tenant tenure have lower housing costs;
- transportation costs tend to be lower in areas where more transportation options are available; and,
- some developing areas in the outer areas of the region show more housing affordability due to land values and availability.
The study provides a necessary baseline on housing and transportation costs, and results could be used to inform regional and local planning initiatives.
View the Housing and Transportation Cost Estimate Study (PDF)
Proud to be recognized as one of BC’s Top Employers and Canada’s Greenest Employers, the CRD delivers regional, sub-regional and local services to 13 municipalities and three electoral areas on southern Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. Governed by a 24-member Board of Directors, the CRD works collaboratively with First Nations and all levels of government to enable sustainable growth, foster community well-being, and develop cost-effective infrastructure while continuing to provide core services to residents throughout the region. Visit us online at www.crd.bc.ca.
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For media inquiries, please contact:
Andy Orr, Senior Manager
CRD Corporate Communications
Tel: 250.360.3229
Cell: 250.216.5492