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Demographic Trends and Evolving Housing Needs in Latvia: Implications for Social Housing Policy

Author

Listed:
  • Sanchaniya Rashmi Jaymin

    (Riga Technical University, Riga, Latvia)

  • Černeckienė Jurgita

    (Kaunas Technical University, Kaunas, Lithuania)

  • Patel Shruti Jitendrakumar

    (New York Institute of Technology, New York, United States)

  • Kundziņa Antra

    (Riga Technical University, Riga, Latvia)

Abstract

This article examines demographic shifts and changing housing needs in Latvia, with a focus on their implications for social housing policy. Latvia faces significant demographic challenges, including population decline, rapid ageing, and changing household structures. The study analyses historical trends in population, age structure, household composition, and migration patterns based on data from the Latvian Central Statistical Bureau and Eurostat. It also assesses the current housing landscape, including characteristics of housing stocks, homeownership rates, rental market dynamics, and social housing provision. The research reveals a growing mismatch between the existing housing stock and evolving needs, particularly for smaller, accessible units suitable for an ageing population. Based on these findings, the article proposes policy recommendations to address Latvia’s evolving housing needs. These include short-term adjustments to current policies, long-term strategic planning for housing development, and innovative financing mechanisms for social housing. The study also explores potential challenges in implementing these recommendations, such as funding restrictions and political acceptance. By aligning housing policy with demographic realities, Latvia can better meet the needs of its changing population and enhance the overall quality of life of its citizens. This research contributes to a better understanding of the adaptation of housing policy adaptation in the context of significant demographic change.

Suggested Citation

  • Sanchaniya Rashmi Jaymin & Černeckienė Jurgita & Patel Shruti Jitendrakumar & Kundziņa Antra, 2025. "Demographic Trends and Evolving Housing Needs in Latvia: Implications for Social Housing Policy," Baltic Journal of Real Estate Economics and Construction Management, Sciendo, vol. 13(1), pages 45-51.
    • Handle: RePEc:vrs:bjrecm:v:13:y:2025:i:1:p:45-51:n:1004
    DOI: 10.2478/bjreecm-2025-0004
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Emma Mulliner & Mike Riley & Vida Maliene, 2020. "Older People’s Preferences for Housing and Environment Characteristics," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 12(14), pages 1-25, July.
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