Determinants of Housing Satisfaction in Residential Areas of Akure, Nigeria
Authors: Babatunde Oluwaseyi Owolabi, Adewumi Adedotun Joshua, Owoeye Idowu Adebayo
DOI: 10.87349/ahuri/181040
Page No: 126-141
Abstract
Housing satisfaction is a multifaceted indicator of urban livability, shaped by socio-economic, physical, and environmental factors. This mixed-methods study investigates housing satisfaction determinants in residential areas of Akure, Nigeria, across low-, medium-, and high-density residential areas. Through stratified random sampling, 369 household heads were surveyed, augmented by key informant interviews with officials from the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development and Ondo State Development and Property Corporation. Findings highlight significant disparities: low-density areas benefit from better access to public transport (66.7% easy), amenities (54.9% easy), robust security, and high environmental quality (77.1% good/very good air quality), driven by higher incomes (38.6% ≥₦200,000/month) and formal employment (60.1%). In contrast, highdensity areas face challenges, including affordability constraints (68.8% 30 minutes to services), insecurity, and severe pollution (50% serious noise; 43.8% poor/very poor air quality). Medium-density areas show intermediate conditions. Key satisfaction determinants include workplace proximity, affordability, security, cleanliness, and green spaces. The study reveals gaps in Nigeria’s National Housing Policy, worsening urban inequities while recommendations include targeted infrastructure improvements, affordable housing programs, and integrated green planning to boost satisfaction and support SDG 11 for sustainable urbanisation.
