An abstract graphic of rounded lines forming a circle on a dark blue background. The lines are pink and blend into purple in an ombre circle, with just a portion of the circle showing on the screen. The graphic signifies the design of The Milken Institute's Global Conference 2025, an annual forum that brings together leaders from business, finance, and other fields to discuss economic and social issues.
Global Conference 2025

Strategies for Expanding Affordable Housing

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The need to expand access to affordable housing is a unifying concern across the US. In a 2024 survey, 76 percent of respondents stated that housing affordability was a problem that was getting worse in their communities. Median house prices are approaching nearly 6 times the US median income, with high interest rates pushing potential buyers out of the market. Renters, meanwhile, are spending over a third of their income on rent. The high cost of housing not only imposes a burden on individuals and families but also hampers economic growth. As highlighted in the 2025 Milken Institute Best Performing Cities report, large metropoles with high housing costs such as San Francisco, San Jose, and Seattle, once among our best-performing cities, have recently experienced slowing growth. As cities grapple with rising housing costs, this panel brings together city officials, urban planners, and economists to discuss actionable strategies to solve this growing national problem. 

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    Moderator

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    Jennifer Sondag

    Senior Editor, Bloomberg.com

    Speakers

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    Stephen J. Cloobeck

    Founder Chairman, Diamond Resorts International
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    Scott Epstein

    Director, Policy and Research, Abundant Housing LA
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    Martin Muoto

    Managing Partner, Sola Impact
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    Shane Phillips

    Housing Initiative Project Manager, UCLA Lewis Center for Regional Policy Studies
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    Stephanie Rawlings-Blake

    Former President, US Conference of Mayors; Chair, Airbnb Housing Council