Flagstaff’s rising cost of living continues to make it difficult for many educators and staff to afford housing in the community they serve. To better understand these challenges, the Flagstaff Unified School District (FUSD) partnered with Northern Arizona University’s Economic Policy Institute and the Vitalyst Health Foundation to conduct an Employee Housing Attainability Study and form a districtwide Housing Task Force.

The study, which included responses from 373 employees across all roles and departments, found that 48% are cost-burdened—spending more than 30% of their income on housing—and 17% are severely cost-burdened, spending more than half. Younger employees are primarily renters, and 61% of non-homeowners reported feeling pessimistic about achieving their housing goals within the next three years. Nearly half of respondents said they are considering leaving Flagstaff because of the high cost of living. Employees identified affordability, safety, and proximity to work or schools as their top housing priorities, with many sharing stories of working multiple jobs, living with roommates, or commuting long distances to remain in the district.

In response, the Housing Task Force recommended exploring the development of affordable housing on district-owned land near Sinagua Middle School, potentially creating approximately 80 rental units and 30 homeownership opportunities for staff and families. The group also proposed launching a Housing Navigation Program to connect employees with homebuyer education, financial counseling, rental assistance, and other resources, along with hosting an annual Housing Resource Fair.

FUSD will also advocate for broader city and state housing policy reforms while partnering with community leaders and developers to expand affordable options.

“Ensuring that our educators and staff can afford to live in the community they serve is essential to the long-term success and stability of our schools. We are committed to pursuing solutions that support the well-being of our employees and their families.” – Superintendent Michael Penca.