Comparing the Performance of Public Housing in New York City and Singapore

Affordable housing is a critical aspect of urban development in cities with high housing demand, with the world population urbanizing at a consistent rate and a widening wealth gap in almost every society. Governments worldwide have attempted to address this issue by building housing units for low-income households with varying levels of success. This paper examines the factors that have contributed to the success of government-built housing in Singapore, which has been able to meet demand, compared to New York City, where demand has not been met. The study finds that Singapore’s government has taken a comprehensive approach to housing, including strict regulations, financing mechanisms, and active involvement in housing provisions, while New York’s government has faced funding challenges, political barriers, and insufficient coordination among government agencies. The paper concludes that a holistic approach that involves effective planning, financing, and implementation is essential to meet the demand for housing in urban areas. © 2023, Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat. All rights reserved.