Housing is healthcare.

When discussing residential health specifically in the context of Black communities, the focus shifts to how housing conditions and neighborhood environments affect health outcomes. Here are some key statistics and points:

Economic Factors:

   - Homeownership and Wealth: The homeownership rate among Black Americans is lower than that of White Americans. As of 2022, the homeownership rate for Black households was approximately 44%, compared to 74% for White households. This disparity affects wealth accumulation and housing stability, influencing overall health.

   - Rent Burden: Black renters are more likely to experience rent burden, spending a higher percentage of their income on housing. The National Low Income Housing Coalition (NLIHC) reports that 55% of Black renters are cost-burdened, meaning they spend more than 30% of their income on rent, compared to 47% of White renters.

Housing Quality:

   - Substandard Housing: Black Americans are more likely to live in substandard housing conditions. According to a 2021 report from the U.S. Census Bureau, 8.4% of Black households live in housing with severe physical problems, such as structural defects or inadequate plumbing, compared to 4.3% of White households. The stress associated with poor housing conditions and neighborhood environments can also impact mental health. Research indicates that living in substandard housing is associated with higher levels of psychological distress and lower overall well-being.

Addressing these issues involves improving housing quality, reducing environmental hazards, and increasing access to homeownership resources in Black neighborhoods.