A Critical Examination of Mississauga’s Housing Crisis: The Call for Missing Middle Housing
By Paige Peacock – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
April 10, 2025
In the evolving landscape of Canadian urban centers, municipalities are finding themselves entangled in a protracted housing crisis. As powerful developers orchestrate the construction of costly housing options—merely enriching themselves without meeting the urgent needs of local residents—millions find themselves reliant on increasingly strained local supports for affordable shelter. In Mississauga, this dilemma is particularly pronounced, as efforts to advocate for "missing middle housing" gain momentum amid growing discontent.
The Push for Missing Middle Housing
For a decade, Mississauga officials have been vocal proponents of "missing middle housing," advocating for three to five-story buildings that offer a spectrum of living spaces in fully-accessible communities. These developments emphasize local amenities and convenient transit access—key features that many young families crave in today’s fast-paced society. However, the proliferation of sprawling subdivisions built in the past few decades has rendered the current housing market inaccessible and unsustainable for many aspiring homeowners.
Image: The rapid development of mid-rise housing aims to address the affordability crisis in Mississauga.
The State of the Housing Market
At present, the average price of a detached home in Mississauga stands at a staggering $1.4 million, with condos averaging $600,000. Renting is equally daunting; a one-bedroom condo demands around $2,500 monthly, while a two-bedroom space commands about $3,000. Such figures render homeownership a distant dream for many residents, particularly younger generations grappling with stagnant wages that have only increased by 16% since 2005.
The report from the Missing Middle Initiative starkly illustrates the trajectory of the housing crisis, depicting a shift from "deeply unaffordable" to "completely unattainable" living conditions over the past two decades.
Political Responses and Proposals
As the 2025 federal elections approach, political leaders are scrambling to address the housing crisis. Liberal leader Mark Carney proposes a GST cut on new homes under $1 million and the establishment of a federal housing corporation to fuel a revival not seen since post-World War II. On the other hand, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre offers a bigger GST cut, allowing for homes up to $1.3 million, while vowing to incentivize municipalities to alleviate development charges.
NDP leader Jagmeet Singh’s promising plan includes constructing three million homes by 2030, which encompasses speeding up construction and safeguarding existing rentals. However, detailed strategies for actualizing these ambitious plans remain vague, leaving residents pondering their viability.
Challenges in Implementation
Mississauga has reached a critical juncture. Old-fashioned, sprawling neighborhoods cry out for transformation to keep pace with modern needs, yet an overreliance on developers has stymied progress. Advocates argue that the current approach fails to meet the demands for more diverse, affordable housing options. Experts emphasize that addressing the housing crisis should not merely register as a political slogan but manifest in actionable strategies that genuinely prioritize equity and accessibility.
Critics assert that elusive plans need further refinement. Michelle Bilek, founder of the Peel Alliance to End Homelessness, argues that decades of policy missteps have transferred housing responsibilities to the private sector without adequate oversight or accountability.
The Federal and Municipal Disconnect
Effective housing policy must bridge the divide between federal intentions and municipal realities. Local governments wield significant authority over zoning and planning, creating a complex dynamic when higher levels of government propose top-down solutions. Consequently, the federal government’s approach to housing hasn’t always translated into local feasibility.
Mississauga Councillor Alvin Tedjo stresses the need for clear federal expectations. “The government needs to ensure that affordable units get built and remain affordable," he states. Tedjo’s sentiments echo a broader ambition: abolishing bureaucratic barriers that deter timely approval for housing projects.
The Path Forward
As the crisis deepens, it’s evident that meaningful change requires a departure from traditional development models. All candidates must present coherent plans that address the nuanced demands of Mississauga’s housing needs. Innovative financing solutions, collaborations with local agencies, and comprehensive community input will be vital in crafting responsive housing policies.
In summation, the challenges facing Mississauga highlight not only the urgency of housing reform but the necessity for informed and collaborative governance. As residents search for solutions, only an inclusive approach that emphasizes both growth and sustainability will set the foundation for a brighter, more equitable future.
For Further Discussion:
Engage with us on your thoughts regarding housing initiatives in Mississauga. What comprehensive strategies do you think local leaders should adopt to combat the prevailing housing crisis? Your opinions play a crucial role in shaping community discourse.
