Compiled By SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
Huntsville’s growing housing affordability crisis is reflected in record-high demand for Habitat for Humanity homes, with more than 600 families on waiting lists across Madison and Limestone counties.
“We’ve had to close the lists — the need is overwhelming,” said Jeremy Foulks, Habitat for Humanity of the River Valley executive director. The organization now serves Jackson County and faces frozen repair programs, rising construction costs, and limited available land.
A few years ago, Foulks said every qualified family could be placed in a home. Soaring rents, stagnant wages, and inflation have made that impossible today. The average rent in the Huntsville metro reached $1,426 in March, while median home prices in the area exceed $300,000, according to ValleyMLS and the Alabama Center for Real Estate.
Rebecca Fazzingo, who just moved into a Habitat home with her son, said they escaped dangerous apartment conditions and a $448 power bill. Thanks to Habitat’s zero-interest financing model, their new monthly mortgage is about $600- $650, including taxes and insurance.
Families selected for homes must contribute 300 hours of “sweat equity,” including helping build their home and attending financial, mortgage, and landscaping classes. “It was a long journey, but worth it,” Fazzingo said.
Habitat’s costs have nearly doubled since the pandemic, with each home now averaging $137,000 to build. Tariffs and supply chain issues have added to expenses, and finding affordable, buildable land remains a significant obstacle.
Despite the challenges, Habitat will have 16 homes under construction this year, including new builds in Athens and Jackson County. The organization completed 11 homes last year and has repaired more than 20 in 2025.
“We’re proud of the work,” Foulks said. “But the need keeps growing.”