Theorising affordability in co-housing: unravelling the how and when of its affordability potential

Abstract: Affordability is often cited as a beneficial aspect of co-housing; however, the specific factors that contribute to its affordability and the theoretical understanding of this phenomenon have received limited attention in research. Against the backdrop of the ongoing affordable housing crisis, this study seeks to investigate the circumstances under which co-housing holds the potential for affordability. Specifically focusing on co-housing with shared spaces and adopting a comprehensive perspective on affordability, the paper develops an analytical framework that emphasizes the significance of the institutional context and tenure structure within co-housing projects for achieving affordability. To enrich the analysis, the framework is applied to three case studies of Swedish co-housing initiatives. The findings underscore that affordability is not an automatic outcome of co-housing but requires active efforts. By revealing the underlying mechanisms influencing affordability, this paper aims to contribute to the advancement of more affordable co-housing in general.