The North Coast Regional District (NCRD) has released an in-depth housing study for Electoral Area E (Moresby Island) and Electoral Area D (rural areas on Graham Island) in Haida Gwaii. Both regions face challenges such as aging housing stock, rising property values, and affordability issues, though these challenges are more acute in Electoral Area E. Area E suffers from severe affordability problems, especially for non-census families and renters, while Area D’s more stable income distribution results in less intense affordability pressures. However, both areas share a need for expanded housing options and improved affordability.
The 2024 Housing Needs Report underscores the rapid rise in housing costs, which increased by 162 per cent between 2018 and 2023, placing significant strain on individuals, especially singles and renters. Families, however, fared somewhat better. The report also identifies the absence of senior-specific and long-term rental housing and notes the limited availability of public transit. Projections suggest that 74 new units will be needed by 2041 to meet future housing demand.
Area D has seen notable demographic changes, with a 24 per cent population increase from 2016 to 2021, reversing previous declines. This shift, along with a growing number of households and an aging population, has impacted local housing demand. Housing stock in both areas is predominantly single-detached homes, with Area E experiencing a slower pace of new construction compared to Area D. Renters in both regions face significant affordability challenges, particularly in Area E, where a large portion of non-census families spends over 60% of their income on shelter.
The NCRD’s response to these challenges includes updating zoning bylaws in Area D to facilitate small-scale multi-unit housing and exploring opportunities for developing surplus land. Despite some challenges in securing funding, the NCRD is committed to addressing housing needs through a variety of initiatives, including the promotion of mixed-use zoning and active transportation infrastructure.
Income data from the report reveals that between 2016 and 2021, both areas saw substantial growth in household incomes. However, there are significant disparities between owners and renters, particularly in Area E, where fluctuations in owner income were more pronounced. The NCRD projects a slight population decline over the next 20 years, but housing demand will remain high. The Ministry of Housing’s Service Plan aligns with these efforts, focusing on increasing attainable housing, addressing homelessness, and supporting Indigenous communities in Haida Gwaii.
It is important to note that this housing study does not include the municipalities and their own plans to address housing needs. These municipalities have their own housing strategies, and their efforts may differ from the NCRD’s regional approach. The NCRD’s study provides a comprehensive overview of the rural areas’ housing needs. The housing study highlights the importance of addressing core housing needs, repairing aging housing stock, and expanding affordable rental options in both Electoral Areas E and D. While both regions face similar challenges, the urgency and focus areas differ, with Electoral Area E needing more immediate action to address affordability crises.