A Study on Housing Satisfaction of Single Renters in Seoul: Analyzing Subjective Affordability across Age Groups

This study examines the housing satisfaction of single renters in Seoul, taking into account subjective affordability among different age groups. Utilizing data from the 2022 Seoul housing survey, a binary logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify the varying impacts of independent factors related to demographic, economic and policy aspects. Special attention is given to the policy aspect, which includes the physical characteristics of housing as outlined by thresholds of the National Minimum Housing Standard and relevant legislation such as the Housing Basic Act. The findings highlight the distinct influences of these factors on housing satisfaction among the renters in different models. For those with subjective affordability concerns, housing quality had a significant influence on the housing satisfaction among young adults, whilst additional factors such as the economic aspects were more influential for middle-aged individuals, and the demographic aspects played a greater role for older adults. Furthermore, living in Gosi-won or substandard accommodations, located on (semi-) basement and rooftop, negatively influenced the housing satisfaction in most models. Lastly, the findings suggest the need to revisit life cycle-based housing policies and to give consideration to subjective affordability as a key policy marker.