Project Vision  

An updated opportunity map will support fair housing goals and help create a more inclusive Austin with affordable housing in areas that have resources and opportunities. 

This initiative is an approved grant activity of the Pathways to Removing Obstacles to Housing (PRO Housing) funding. PRO Housing empowers communities that are actively taking steps to remove barriers to affordable housing and seeking to increase housing production and lower housing costs over the long term.

Housing Stability 
To secure long-term housing tenure, reduce vacancy, and homelessness rates.                                                                                                                                      
 

Housing Affordability 
To reduce housing cost burden, improve cost-to-income ratios, and create affordable housing. 
 

Housing Availability  
To increase supply of rental and ownership units and access to quality housing.                                                                                                                            
 

Neighborhood Opportunity 
To improve access to public transit, jobs, quality schools, health outcomes, essential services, and reduce commute time. 
 

Housing Equity  
To reduce disparities in homeownership and housing displacement risk across racial, ethnic, disability, family, and economic lines. 
 

Economic Opportunity
To locate housing near higher paying jobs, workforce training, and institutions of higher learning. 

How does Austin Housing use the current map?

Austin’s existing Opportunity Map is used to guide affordable housing investments and help prioritize development in high-opportunity areas. This type of housing development supports the Strategic Housing Blueprint goal of placing 25% of new income-restricted affordable housing units in these high-opportunity neighborhoods. We achieve this by partnering with developers and directing funding through the Rental Housing Development Assistance (RHDA) program. We also use the map during the process of partnership selections for Austin’s Housing Public Facility Corporation (PFC), ensuring resources are invested where they will have the greatest impact and promote upward mobility across the city. 

Why is the updated map needed?

The existing Opportunity Map is based on outdated information that no longer reflects today’s reality. An updated map will reflect current community needs and how Austin has changed. The new map will help locate areas where affordable housing can offer the greatest long-term benefits to residents.  

Who will create the new map? 

Austin Housing will partner with a consultant to create the map. This partner will be an academic institution and will serve as a research team. The team will consult with the community throughout the process. After a series of consultations with community members, the consultant and the City will form a technical advisory group to guide the creation of the updated map.  

Get Involved

Visit the Community Engagement and Technical Advisory Group tabs above!