Context and Overview
The "Eurocities Pulse Mayors Survey 2025" report, published in June 2025 by Eurocities, provides insights into the urgent housing crisis facing European cities. The report is authored by various experts, including Mathias De Clercq, President of Eurocities and Mayor of Ghent, and André Sobczak, Secretary General of Eurocities. It compiles responses from nearly 100 mayors across 26 countries, highlighting their priorities, unexpected challenges, and the necessary support from the EU to tackle pressing urban issues.
Housing Affordability Crisis
A significant finding from the survey reveals that 39% of mayors report housing costs as unaffordable for their residents, indicating a severe housing crisis. Only 14% of cities claim their housing remains affordable, while 47% fall into a 'moderate' category, suggesting growing concerns about future affordability. The report emphasizes that cities must urgently address these issues, as rising interest rates and short-term rental markets exacerbate the situation.
Drivers of Unaffordability
The primary driver of housing unaffordability, as identified by mayors, is demand exceeding supply, with 76% citing this challenge. Other significant factors include rising construction costs (71%), limited land availability (60%), and speculative investment (29%). The report highlights that cities experiencing economic growth struggle to meet housing demand, while rising costs lead to developers prioritizing high-end housing over affordable units.
Priorities for Housing Development
In response to the crisis, nearly half of the mayors (47%) indicate that increasing the supply of affordable housing should be their top priority. An overwhelming 93% place it among their top three priorities. The report stresses the importance of expanding social housing, with 32% of cities ranking it as a top priority. Additionally, 69% of mayors emphasize the need to reduce the housing cost burden on vulnerable populations.
EU Financing and Support
Mayors call for stronger EU support to tackle the housing crisis, with 56% advocating for direct EU budget resources. They stress the necessity for accessible EU funding mechanisms to support large-scale investments in affordable and social housing. The report indicates that mayors face challenges in navigating the existing EU funding landscape, which often lacks clarity and stability.
Future Steps and the European Affordable Housing Plan
The report underscores the European Commission's recognition of the housing crisis, with the establishment of a Housing Task Force. The European Affordable Housing Plan aims to mobilize public and private investments and address the inefficient use of existing housing stock. The plan's forthcoming consultations will involve cities, emphasizing their vital role in shaping the future of housing policy in Europe.
Conclusion
The Eurocities Pulse Mayors Survey 2025 provides a crucial snapshot of the housing landscape in Europe, indicating an urgent need for collaborative efforts between cities and the EU to address the growing affordability crisis. The insights gathered highlight the need for immediate action to ensure social stability and support vulnerable populations across European urban areas.