Local government or state: expectations of suburban rural residents for meeting housing needs. A case study of suburban rural areas of Lodz, Poland

Abstract

The article investigates rural suburban residents’ expectations regarding housing policies supported by state and local authorities. The analysis is based on representative survey data collected in 2024 from 607 inhabitants of the Suburban Rural Areas of Lodz in Poland. Logit models revealed the substantial impact of socioeconomic characteristics and housing conditions on the respondents’ expectations. Older people, as well as those who are divorced or separated, exhibited a higher propensity to expect government support, while employed people and homeowners were less inclined to seek public support. Housing policies implemented by local governments have attracted greater levels of support. The most preferred forms of support are preparing land for construction and allocating new plots. The findings point to a strong preference for local infrastructure initiatives over the direct provision of social housing. Furthermore, the analysis emphasises the importance of aligning policies with the distinct characteristics of rural regions and their populations.