Research & Publications 2026

Subsidized Housing as Mixed Income Anchor: Exploring a New Middle Market in Philadelphia

Topic Housing

Geography Pennsylvania

Written By

Emily Dowdall

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An interesting new market type emerged in the 2023 Philadelphia MVA that was still a distinct category in 2026. These are what we call D Markets, and they are notable because they have just above median sales prices, just above average homeownership, and the highest share of renters with subsidy anywhere in the city. These are previously distressed housing markets that were adjacent to stronger markets. The average median sale price in these areas has increased dramatically, but the presence of subsidized housing has kept options for a wider range of income levels. We explore these neighborhoods through a series of maps and tables.

About the Author

Emily Dowdall

President, Policy Solutions

Emily Dowdall is President of Policy Solutions at Reinvestment Fund. She works with government, philanthropic, nonprofit, and other civic leaders across the country to support strategic decision-making to strengthen communities. Ms. Dowdall leads a team of skilled analysts in conducting research and building analytic tools that help stakeholders implement effective interventions and address entrenched challenges. Her expertise includes approaches to understanding and intervening in housing markets, strategies to stabilize households and neighborhoods, affordable housing needs, fair housing, early child education access, and program evaluation.

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Research & Publications 2026