Is There a Link Between Homeownership and Civic Participation?

Matt Bevilacqua discusses the findings contained in a study to be published in next month's issue of the Urban Affairs Review that examines whether homeownership really does encourage civic engagement. "Looking at data collected from a group low- and mid-income
homeowners and renters over four years, researchers from the University
of North Carolina at Chapel Hill find that owning a home can indeed
inspire someone to get involved with the community - so long as the
ownership is sustained," writes Bevilacqua. 

"Policy-wise, the study concludes that measures aimed at increasing
homeownership rates in low-income neighborhoods can help precipitate a
robust civic life, which in turn may bring about a better overall
quality of life. However, beyond simply increasing access to
homeownership, these policies would have to ensure it can be sustained."