The Metro Vancouver region is facing serious housing challenges. The high cost of housing has made it harder for people — especially those with lower incomes — to find homes they can afford. There is also a shortage of supportive and non-market housing options.
To meet the region’s growing and changing needs, communities need a mix of housing types and affordable options in all areas of the region, close to transit, jobs, and services.
Metro Vancouver's role
Metro Vancouver plays a regional role in supporting affordable and diverse housing.
Metro 2050, the Regional Growth Strategy, identifies actions to increase the supply and variety of housing, protect renters, preserve and renew rental housing, and address the needs of lower-income households and those experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
Key areas of work include:
- Providing data, policy guidance, and resources to support regional planning and assist member jurisdictions with local housing research and policy initiatives
- Facilitating regional collaboration on shared housing priorities
- Convening subject matter experts on housing issues
- Advocating to federal and provincial governments for housing resources and policies
Metro Vancouver also directly contributes to affordable housing through
Metro Vancouver Housing, one of the region’s largest non-profit housing providers. Work is currently underway to update the
Metro Vancouver Housing 10-Year Plan — a vision to provide, preserve, and expand our portfolio of affordable housing across the region, and develop 2,000 new units over the next 10 years.
Housing 2050
Metro Vancouver is developing Housing 2050: A Roadmap to Implement Metro 2050’s Housing Goal to support diverse and affordable housing choices. This includes the regional target for at least 15% of new housing in transit-oriented areas to be affordable rental units.
This project is supported by robust engagement with municipalities, First Nations, other governments, and housing organizations across the region.
Housing policy resources
Metro Vancouver compiles housing policies from across the region and conducts research into best practices to support local and regional housing initiatives.
Housing data resources
Metro Vancouver compiles housing data and provides analysis to support informed decision-making across the region.
DCC waivers for affordable rental housing
Metro Vancouver supports affordable rental housing development in the region through waivers of development cost charges (DCCs).