The European Commission has unveiled the first-ever EU affordable housing plan, aimed at helping millions of Europeans gain access to quality and affordable homes.
According to the European Commission, over the past ten years housing prices in the EU have risen by more than 60%, while rents have increased by over 20%. As a result, many families, young people and workers can no longer afford to buy or rent a home.
The plan provides increasing housing construction volumes, attracting investment and introducing regulatory changes, as well as controlling short-term rentals in regions facing housing shortages.
The document provides for the creation of partnerships for better housing and the development of one-stop shops to help households navigate renovation solutions.
The plan also supports the repurposing and upgrading of existing buildings, as a significant share of Europe’s housing stock has low energy performance and requires the replacement of windows, glazing and façades.
A separate strand focuses on the European housing construction strategy, which promotes modular and low-carbon building methods and helps reduce energy consumption.
To date, the European Commission has already mobilised €43 billion in investment for the housing sector and intends to continue funding under the next EU budget. In addition, a pan-European investment platform is being prepared together with the European Investment Bank.
The plan is expected to bring the greatest benefits to young people, students, workers in key sectors and low-income groups. The European Commission will also support the development of student and social housing, as well as assistance for people experiencing homelessness.
The next step will be the implementation of the plan through a new European Housing Alliance, bringing together EU countries, regions, cities, businesses and civil society organisations.
Illustrative photo: Milan Chudoba on Unsplash
The European Commission aims to combine affordability, sustainability and housing quality
European Commission presents a European plan for affordable housing
ID no: 24039
Nov 20, 2025
Nov 18, 2025
Dec 10, 2025
Dec 3, 2025
