The Housing Authority of Baltimore City (HABC) engaged ESI to assess the economic impact of its operations, capital investments, and housing assistance programs from 2018 to 2023. HABC sought to quantify its contributions to Baltimore’s and Maryland’s economies, helping to demonstrate the value of its affordable housing initiatives amidst a challenging housing market landscape. The project addressed the full range of HABC’s activities—including public housing, voucher programs, capital projects, and resident services—while accounting for the broader market forces impacting housing affordability.
ESI used industry-standard input-output modeling techniques, leveraging IMPLAN software, to estimate the direct, indirect, and induced economic impacts generated by HABC’s activities. The team conducted a thorough review of HABC’s budget, program data, and portfolio information, collaborating closely with HABC leadership to ensure accurate and nuanced modeling. The analysis captured HABC’s operational spending, housing assistance payments, and capital investments, as well as the broader economic benefits resulting from increased household savings for low-income residents. Impacts were calculated at both the city and state levels.
Senior staff from HABC provided critical program, budgetary, and operational insights during the engagement. Their collaboration ensured that the model inputs accurately reflected HABC’s complex portfolio and the distinct elements of its service offerings.
HABC’s activities generated nearly $589 million in total annual economic impact within Baltimore in 2023, supporting over 1,500 full-time jobs and generating significant tax revenues at the city and state levels. The organization’s capital investments and household savings impacts further amplified its economic contribution. Additionally, HABC’s efforts strengthened economic mobility, supported stable communities, and contributed to improved health and education outcomes for low-income households.
The findings provided HABC with clear, quantifiable evidence of its vital role in Baltimore’s economy, equipping the agency with a powerful tool to advocate for continued funding, policy support, and future development initiatives. The analysis has positioned HABC to strengthen its case for future federal, state, and local investments. It also highlighted the long-term community benefits of affordable housing, informing strategic planning and future development efforts. ESI’s work contributes to ongoing conversations about expanding affordable housing and economic self-sufficiency initiatives across Baltimore.