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Back to Which Way, L.A.?

Which Way, L.A.?

Affordable Housing and Southern California's Middle Class

The median income in Southern California is around $55,000; a so-called "affordable" house for a family of three or four making that much money is $175,000. In the nation's hottest real estate market, moderate incomes--including those of cops, firefighters and teachers--just aren't enough to buy middle-class homes close to work. That means lower standards of living or long hours on the freeway. What's being done to make cities "sustainable?" Will new families have to lower their expectations about where they live? We hear from architect and city planners who are trying to help create affordable urban housing.Making News: Governor, Dems Run Out of Time on Infrastructure Bond MeasureThe last day for the legislature to put a massive public-works bond on the June ballot supposedly was Friday, but the legislature spent Saturday trying--and failing--to do it. Today, Governor Schwarzenegger today asked for a last-ditch effort. Dan Walters is a columnist for the Sacramento Bee.

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By Warren Olney • Mar 13, 2006 • 30m Listen

The median income in Southern California is around $55,000; a so-called "affordable" house for a family of three or four making that much money is $175,000. In the nation's hottest real estate market, moderate incomes--including those of cops, firefighters and teachers--just aren't enough to buy middle-class homes close to work. That means lower standards of living or long hours on the freeway. What's being done to make cities "sustainable?" Will new families have to lower their expectations about where they live? We hear from architect and city planners who are trying to help create affordable urban housing.

  • Making News:

    Governor, Dems Run Out of Time on Infrastructure Bond Measure

    The last day for the legislature to put a massive public-works bond on the June ballot supposedly was Friday, but the legislature spent Saturday trying--and failing--to do it. Today, Governor Schwarzenegger today asked for a last-ditch effort. Dan Walters is a columnist for the Sacramento Bee.

  • https://images.ctfassets.net/2658fe8gbo8o/AvYox6VuEgcxpd20Xo9d3/769bca4fbf97bf022190f4813812c1e2/new-default.jpg?h=250

    Warren Olney

    former KCRW broadcaster

  • https://images.ctfassets.net/2658fe8gbo8o/AvYox6VuEgcxpd20Xo9d3/769bca4fbf97bf022190f4813812c1e2/new-default.jpg?h=250

    Frances Anderton

    architecture critic and author

    News
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