Housing in Guelph
A housing strategy for Guelph
Guelph is growing, and we need more diverse options for housing. We need homes that are safe, affordable, accessible and suitable regardless of income, age or situation. Everyone in Guelph should be able to afford a place to call home.
We’re working together with Wellington County and other levels of government, homebuilders, developers and community partners to get it done. Because together, we’re stronger.
Everyone who lives in Guelph should:
Feel safe
Guelph, with its welcoming community and charming atmosphere, stands out as a place where safety and security are deeply valued. The City’s commitment to maintaining a high quality of life is reflected in its low crime rates, well-maintained public spaces and active community programs.
Have pride
Guelph is more than just a city, it’s a vibrant community that inspires pride in its residents. Guelph offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation with its rich history, beautiful architecture and commitment to sustainability. Guelph takes pride in its thriving cultural scene and dedication to preserving natural beauty.
Have family support
Guelph is an ideal location for raising a family, offering a blend of safety, community and quality of life. With its excellent educational institutions and family-friendly amenities, Guelph is a welcoming and supportive place for families to grow and enjoy life. All types of families are welcome here.
Honour tradition
Guelph is a city deeply rooted in tradition, where historical heritage and cultural practices are cherished and celebrated. Diversity is welcome and respected. The City’s well-preserved architecture, historic sites, and annual festivals reflect its commitment to honouring its past while embracing the present.
Serving our community’s diverse housing needs
Housing is a top priority for Guelph. Housing forms the basis of our neighbourhoods and plays an important role in health and overall well-being. It can provide a sense of identity, belonging and social support. The City is working to ensure that residents’ housing needs are met, in order to deliver on our community vision of a vibrant, inclusive community for all.
The City of Guelph recently completed a State of housing in Guelph report to better understand our community’s current and future housing needs.
The City’s role in housing
The City supports housing priorities through a number of actions that are within its regulatory scope. While the factors that affect housing demand are largely beyond the control of local government, the City supports our community’s housing needs through:
Regulation
Guelph determines the location and type of housing that can be built.
Policies
Guelph encourages development of affordable and non-market housing options.
Advocacy
Guelph advocates for a range of housing issues at the provincial and federal government level.
Collaboration
Guelph collaborates with all levels of government, non-profit and private sector partners to deliver much-needed housing supplies.
Guelph-Wellington’s housing continuum
The Housing Continuum is the range of housing options one may need over a lifetime, including temporary emergency shelter, transitional and supportive housing, subsidized, affordable and market rental housing, as well as homeownership.
While the City is taking actions to address the housing crisis, and striving to provide more affordable housing within its regulatory scope, Wellington County is the province-appointed municipal services manager that is primarily responsible for providing non-market housing, with some administrative and financial support from the City.
The City is partnering with the County of Wellington in providing housing across the continuum. The City and the County meet in the middle of the continuum, represented by the pink link below. They work collaboratively to provide affordable rental housing.
Guiding documents
Guelph’s State of Housing Report
Guelph’s Strategic Plan
Guelph’s Community Plan
Guelph’s Official Plan
Learn more
Housing in Guelph: an interactive story
