Evaluating the Impact of Housing Characteristics on Psychological Well-Being among Rural Dwellers in Selected Rural Communities in Osun-State, Nigeria

Housing conditions and access to basic infrastructure in rural Nigeria remain major determinants of public health and socio-economic progress. This study assessed the quality of housing and the availability of water supply, sanitation, electricity, and waste management systems in the rural communities of Ilobu, Erin-Osun, and Ifon-Osun, Osun State. A cross-sectional mixed-methods design was adopted: 383 household heads were surveyed through structured questionnaires, complemented by field observations, key-informant interviews, and on-site measurements (radon, microbiological quality) of groundwater sources. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, GIS mapping and thematic analysis were employed. Results show that 78.6 % of dwellings were classified as Type A (acceptable), yet 31 % lacked in-premises water, 22 % still depended on pit latrines, and only 31 % of households used wholesome water. Groundwater radon ranged 6.30–13.71 Bq L⁻¹ (USEPA MCL = 11.1 Bq L⁻¹) and one borehole exceeded WHO coliform limits. Overcrowding (mean 4–6 rooms per household) and aging housing stock (33 % built 11–20 years ago) were prevalent. Income heterogeneity (17 % earning < N30 000 vs 13 % > N150 000) significantly influenced housing quality and service access (p < 0.05). The study concludes that while structural housing has modestly improved, deficits in water quality, sanitation, and maintenance continue to threaten health. Targeted investment in rural water infrastructure, routine groundwater surveillance, and integrated housing-environment policies are urgently recommended.