17:51 29 December 2025
EU moving to address housing issue with billions for investments
The European Union has stepped up efforts to tackle its worsening housing affordability crisis. In response to soaring prices and housing shortages, the European Commission unveiled its first-ever EU-level housing action plan, aimed at boosting construction and improving access to affordable homes. Over the past 12 years, average home prices in the EU have risen by more than 60%, while rents climbed nearly 30%, hitting young and low-income households hardest. The plan targets higher housing supply, fewer administrative barriers, energy-efficient construction, and tighter oversight of short-term rentals. Brussels estimates over 2 million homes a year are needed and plans to mobilize up to €375 billion by 2029 with partners including the European Investment Bank.
Polish MEP Elżbieta Łukacijewska stresses the importance of supporting social housing and local governments across the EU.
