Toronto Voters Want More Housing - Even At Expense of Neighbourhood Characteristics

Toronto, ON - As the municipal election approaches, Toronto voters are making it clear they support more housing. Toronto voters are in favour of a number of approaches that would boost housing supply if implemented.

The Liaison Strategies poll for the National Ethnic Press and Media Council of Canada (NEPMCC) was conducted May 5th and 6th, 2023, with interactive voice response, the poll of 1,257 Toronto voters has a margin of error of +/- 2.76%, 19 times out of 20.

"It's clear that Toronto voters want more housing. And that they want it built even if it changes the characteristics of Toronto neighbourhoods", said David Valentin, Principal of Liaison Strategies. "Support for housing is widespread across the city and in all genders and age categories."

This week's issue questions were a collaboration with Patrides, one of the most trusted outlets serving the Toronto Greek Community.

"69% of voters said they support more housing. In a separate question 45% said they support maintaining the characteristics of Toronto neighbourhoods. But when asked which was more important, more housing or preserving the character of Toronto neighbourhoods, voters chose housing by a margin of 40 percentage points," continued Valentin.

61% support larger developments near transit corridors, 56% support reducing parking requirements for new developments and 47% support building more apartments and condos on land currently zoned for single family homes.

"As candidates campaign across the city, voters will be looking for concrete plans to address the housing crisis. Whether through increased funding for affordable housing or regulatory changes to make it easier to build new units, it is clear that candidates who prioritize creative housing solutions will have an edge with voters come election day," concluded Valentin.

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Toronto Poll - May 10, 2023 by Liaison Strategies