The Affordable Housing Policy in Taiwan and UK: A Comparative Study

Abstract

This paper compares affordable housing policies in Taiwan and the United Kingdom, focusing on how housing supply can be integrated into urban renewal projects. In Taiwan, rapid urbanisation and rising property prices—especially in Taipei—have exacerbated affordability issues, leaving young professionals unable to live in the city. The 2011 Housing Act and new social housing projects mark initial steps towards addressing the issue, yet long-term affordability remains uncertain without a stable supply. Drawing on UK experiences, where affordable housing has been incorporated into urban renewal frameworks, the paper analyses the legal, policy, and institutional contexts of both countries. The findings suggest that adapting international best practices could strengthen Taiwan’s approach and mitigate the risks of gentrification while supporting sustainable urban development.