Town of Arlington, Fair Housing Action Plan (July 2021)

Citation: Town of Arlington, Fair Housing Action Plan (July 2021)
Jurisdiction: Arlington (municipal)
Source: Official source
Original Source: https://www.arlingtonma.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/57214/637641171662530000 ↗

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Senior renters face the challenge of housing costs and rents that continually increase while their income stays the
same. Several interviewees reported many cases of seniors being evicted from longtime residences when their
building is sold. Seniors seeking housing are competing with higher-earning households who are attracted by
Arlington’s proximity to downtown Boston and local amenities. As one provider said, “We hear about people
that have lived in Arlington all their lives and recently retired and now need to find a place to live. People can’t
afford the rents at all.” An option that younger residents commonly use to make housing more affordable—living
with roommates—is not common among seniors, even if they seek it; those that have pursued shared living

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Arlington Fair Housing Action Plan

situations have found that potential housemates are not interested in a senior roommate. One of the interviewees
also noted that older adults face significant discrimination in general when seeking housing.
Homeowners also face challenges. One provider noted that a surprising number of retired seniors who rely on a
fixed income still have a mortgage. Those seeking to move to a smaller house with less maintenance have few
options in Arlington. Even if they currently own their home, many must reserve a portion of the proceeds from
their home sale to provide retirement income, which puts condominium prices in town out of their reach. Many opt
to remain in their current homes for as long as possible, because it is their only option if they wish to remain in
Arlington. Those that choose to sell their home and downsize usually move to a less expensive location like
western Massachusetts, Worcester, the South Shore, or the North Shore.