The State of Black Housing in Arizona

 

The Stark Reality

Arizona’s housing crisis disproportionately affects Black residents in ways that are both distinct and urgent. The State of Black Housing Report examines how historical discriminatory housing practices, such as redlining, restrictive covenants, and the subprime mortgage crisis, have actively shaped the present-day realities of Black Arizonans. By exploring how housing policy, lived experiences, and community aspirations intersect, this initiative moves past theory to provide a clear guide for policy changes and community-led solutions to tackle these challenges together.

 

The Divide in Arizona’s Housing Market

Arizona is booming, but the growth isn't shared equally. Black homeownership in our state sits at just 39.5%, compared to the statewide average of 67.4%.

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The Proof: 3 Shocking Metrics

• The Wealth Gap:
  The typical Black household in Arizona operates with a median net worth of $11,330—which is 69% lower than the state average.
• The Financing Barrier:
  Nearly 1 in 4 Black mortgage applicants in the state are denied financing.
• The Living Strain:
  Close to half (47.4%) of Black Arizonans are housing cost-burdened, spending over 30% of their income just to keep a roof over their heads.

 

What’s Inside the Report?

• The Historical Blueprint:
  How past policies like redlining and local racial covenants laid the groundwork for today’s housing market.
• Lived Experiences:
  Lived insights from Black residents across Arizona navigating displacement and modern market pressures.
• The 3-Pillar Roadmap:
  Evidence-based, targeted recommendations designed specifically for policymakers, housing practitioners, and financial institutions to drive real change.

 

A Call to Action

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“Homeownership in Arizona feels so out of reach. In order to afford a home, you have to move way out to the outskirts…People I know have beautiful homes, but they also have to work multiple jobs or commute two hours into Phoenix just to maintain it....”

— Survey Participant, Arizona Black Homeownership Survey