Vienna's progressive approach to social housing sets a global example

Vienna, Austria, has gained a reputation for its progressive approach to social housing, which originated in the 1920s and 30s. Presently, over 60 percent of the city's 1.8 million residents reside in subsidized housing, with city-owned flats and cooperative apartments comprising more than half of the housing market. Majority of Viennese, around 80 percent, are renters. Thanks to stringent rent control laws, they only spend 20 to 25 percent of their income on housing, and in certain cases as little as 8 percent.

According to Kathrin Gaal, Vienna's deputy mayor, the city's social housing policies have been developed based on the belief that housing is a fundamental right, reflecting a strong political commitment. Vienna's public and cooperative housing is aesthetically appealing and offers communal amenities such as pools and saunas. These homes are inhabited by individuals from diverse backgrounds, and even if their income increases, they are not evicted. This serves as evidence that collaboration between public and private entities can successfully result in the creation of affordable and liveable urban areas.

Vienna's council estates, known as Gemeindebauten, stand out for their exceptional quality and architectural beauty. In contrast to post-war housing projects found in cities like Paris or London, these estates are not exclusively designated for the impoverished population. Vienna's long-term approach to social housing, which includes the provision of secure contracts, fosters economic diversity within the council estates.

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Vienna's progressive approach to social housing sets a global example

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