Nowadays, residents of densely populated cities commonly struggle to find suitable and affordable accommodation. This is the underlying problem that causes many different issues, which the civil engineers are going to tackle. But I personally believe, that the main problem is homelessness. And high housing prices should be regulated by the government through the rent control in order to solve the above-mentioned issue.
The expensive rent prices may contribute to the homelessness both directly and indirectly. It is generally thought that unaffordable housing often leads to people losing their homes when unpredictable situations struck. But it also influences the rise in prices in groceries stores since the owners of those must include the rent fees into the price of the product. Thus, individuals living in the area with pricy housing will eventually spend more on food.
But, in my modest opinion, such vise circle should be addressed through the rent control. When the state is willing to partially cover expenses or restrict landowners from setting unfair fees, it will all provide some kind of insurance for the individuals in case of unexpected issues. Such law should illustrate to people that the state is interested in their safety, what in turn will promote them to spend more, therefore boosting the economic growth.
All in all, lack of affordable housing is a primary threat to the welfare of residents, causing many problems homelessness leading, which, in my humble opinion, should be addressed through the active integration of the government in the rental process of the country.