Housing
Study
Introduction
St. Croix County is experiencing significant challenges in its housing market due to population growth, economic shifts, and evolving community needs. These challenges have only been further compounded by rising housing prices, high building costs and high interest rates. Despite these changes, a comprehensive, county-wide housing study has never been conducted. SCEDC started the process of completing such a study in fall of 2024 and the full plan is expected to be available in June of 2025.
Benefits of a County-Wide Housing Study
There are many benefits to conducting a county-wide housing study:
Data-Driven Decision Making:
A housing study provides data and insights into the county’s housing needs. It helps identify gaps in the current housing market, such as shortages in affordable housing, senior living options, and family-sized homes. With concrete data, municipal leaders and developers can make informed decisions that align with the true needs of the community.
Strategic Planning:
The study will offer a detailed analysis of current housing conditions and future trends. This foresight allows for strategic planning in zoning, infrastructure development, and community services. By understanding where and what type of housing is needed, municipalities can better allocate resources and plan for sustainable growth.
Attracting Developers:
A comprehensive housing study acts as a powerful marketing tool to attract developers. Clear evidence of housing demand, backed by data, can entice developers to invest in the county. It showcases the potential for profitable development projects tailored to the specific needs of St. Croix County residents.
Enhancing Community Well-being:
By identifying and addressing housing shortages, the study will contribute to improving the quality of life for residents. Adequate housing options led to stronger communities, better health outcomes, and increased economic stability. Ensuring that housing meets the diverse needs of the population supports overall community well-being.
Leveraging Funding Opportunities:
A well-documented housing study can enhance the county’s eligibility for state and federal housing grants. It provides the necessary justification for financial assistance aimed at addressing housing issues. Additionally, it strengthens applications for public and private funding sources by demonstrating a clear understanding of housing needs and planned solutions.
Long-term Economic Growth:
Adequate and appropriate housing is a cornerstone of economic development. By addressing housing needs, the county can attract and retain a diverse workforce, support local businesses, and foster an environment conducive to economic growth. Housing stability is closely linked to economic vitality and community resilience.
Deliverables
There will be four main deliverables to this housing study:
St. Croix County Housing Needs Assessment:
This will detail the housing supply, demand, gaps between the supply and demand and the main hurdles/challenges to filling these gaps. It will document all the study findings and recommended actions.
St. Croix County Housing Toolbox:
This will provide a detailed inventory of strategies and programs that can be used to address housing challenges.
St. Croix County Housing Snapshot:
This serves as a useful summary document of the county’s current housing supply, projected housing demand, goals and any recommended actions.
Housing Snapshots for Specific Municipalities:
Community-level snapshots will be prepared for multiple municipalities within the County. The snapshots will summarize demographic and housing data within the community, along with the County’s housing needs and goals, as documented in the county-wide housing study.
Conclusion
Conducting a county-wide housing study in St. Croix County is not just a beneficial initiative—it is a necessary step towards ensuring sustainable development and improving the quality of life for all residents. This study will provide the foundation for data-driven decisions, strategic planning, and successful development efforts.
Housing Forums
SCEDC hosted two housing forums – Jan 30 in Hudson and Feb 13 in Baldwin – to present preliminary data and gather community input.
The slides from each event can be found here:
Forum Presentation_Hudson
Forum Presentation_Baldwin
Please note that the data in these slides may change for the final report based on community input.
SCEDC Housing Study Roadshow
Join us for one of our many SCEDC Housing Study Road Show stops to hear the results of the study, strategies to create more affordable and starter housing and join in on community discussion. All stops will be presenting the same information.
- Schedule