Affordability, Preferences, and Barriers to Multifamily Housing for Young Families in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

This study examines the suitability of multifamily housing for young families in Riyadh in the context of rapid urban growth and rising housing demand. Although apartments are increasingly promoted as efficient and sustainable housing options, limited evidence exists on whether they align with the cultural expectations, affordability constraints, and spatial needs of young Saudi households. A questionnaire of 639 respondents was conducted between January and March 2024, and the data were analysed using a combination of non-parametric and regression-based statistical techniques. Findings show that affordability is the primary barrier to ownership, with married and larger households experiencing the greatest financial pressure. Construction quality, security, room number, and location were the most valued apartment attributes, while stylistic features were less influential. Preferences for full-service gated complexes reflect the importance of privacy, safety, and structured community environments. The data analysis indicates that family size and perceived price-income suitability shape ownership intentions, although the overall model fit suggests additional institutional and market constraints. The study concludes that improving multifamily housing for young families requires integrated policy responses linking affordability measures, governance and building management reforms, and culturally responsive design standards to support the aims of sustainable urban development.