The Dynamics of Housing Preferences and Affordability in Oyo State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examines housing preferences and affordability among low-income civil servants in Oyo state, Nigeria. A case-study design was used, with 394 respondents randomly selected from 20 ministries for questionnaire administration. The findings showed that civil servants spent 51.9% of their income on housing, above the affordable threshold of 30%. The majority were tenants (58.2%), living in flats (44.4%), with 3 bedrooms (39.4%) and 1 toilet (54.1%). Using a Likert Scale, the preferred house type was a duplex, with 3 bedrooms, 3 toilets, and owned by the occupier. Gender differences were not significant, suggesting low-income earners had to compromise on housing attributes due to affordability. The study recommends income review to enhance access to preferred housing.