Gallant, Rochelle A., "Housing Options in a Rural Community: A Case Study of North Rustico, Prince Edward Island"

There are rural communities across the country where housing options are limited while at the same time demographics and social factors create new housing concerns. Yet there does not exist a clear way of looking at and understanding housing in a rural community.



To come to a better understanding of rural housing this thesis examines the housing in the rural community of North Rustico, Prince Edward Island. While the focus in on one rural community, which has its own unique characteristics, this study will provide a detailed look at situations that are common in other rural areas. A household survey was carried out to look at the present housing situation, the perceived housing needs of the inhabitants, and the desirability of the community as a place to live.



The study found that the residents have been able to provide for themselves despite low levels of education, income and employment. Self-build and inheritance have been major contributors to this fact. Past government programs providing renovation and home ownership assistance have been widely used in the past, but recent programs have provided less assistance. There are few cases of real housing need although dissatisfaction with some cur-rent living arrangements was expressed. Where dissatisfaction was evident it was usually part of the larger socioeconomic character of the community rather than based on real housing need. The true disadvantage that is evident is a lack of options - there are few rental or social housing units available.



To assist those in need, increase housing options, and provide direction for the development of the community, a framework of coordinated efforts between the local, provincial and federal housing authorities is put forward.

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