system
Given the following post, respond as if you're commenting on Reddit:
human
CMV: I don't think affordable housing is important in NYC (and other major cities)

I don't understand exactly what the need for affordable housing is in NYC.

I understand that affordable housing is essential to foster a viable middle class anywhere.  However, I do not live in New York City because I do not have the means to, it is that simple.  Would I want to some day when I have a comfortable enough income? Absolutely.  Do I currently when I do not? Absolutely not.

So what I want to know, really, is what the driver is behind needing/wanting affordable housing in NYC and other major cities.

How does it benefit the economy? How does it benefit the local communities? Is it really that important?

Edit: Another question: Ultimately, if it is so important, how can we go about creating affordable housing?
gpt
It's quite simple, people who work low income jobs need places to live.  There are plenty of low income jobs in cities, from fast food to retail positions. You can't expect these people to commute from outide the city, because even if they can afford a low income home outside of the city, they likely can't afford a vehicle, and minimum wage is not worth an hour + bus ride (if one is even available).


Unless there is low income housing available, most low income employees will basically be homeless.