Assessing the Effects of Sociodemographic Characteristics on Housing Adequacy in the Residential Core of Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria

Abstract

Adequate housing is essential to the general wellbeing of households. Thus, it is imperative for households to function properly within their residential spaces. However, housing is largely inadequate in the residential core of traditional towns in Nigeria and this is influenced by socioeconomic factors. A cross-sectional survey of 150 housing units was conducted in the residential core of Akure, Ondo State. It examined the impact of sociodemographic factors on housing adequacy in the study area using structured questionnaire. The data obtained were subjected to single-factor descriptive statistics, mean adequacy scoring and categorical regression analysis. The findings revealed that socio-demographic characteristics significantly impact housing adequacy in the study area. Education, income level, length of residence, numbers of bedrooms, household size and tenure status were significant predictors of housing adequacy in this context while tenure status contributed the most in predicting housing adequacy. The study concluded that socio-demographic characteristics of residents are important determinants of housing adequacy in the residential core area of Akure, Nigeria and should therefore, be of utmost considerations in the management and planning of such housing environments