A non-profit organization in Moncton, dedicated to providing affordable housing, is shifting its focus towards developing what they refer to as the “missing middle.” According to Dale Hicks, the president of Rising Tide Community Initiatives Inc., there is a lack of housing units in the $1,000 to $1,500 per month rental range, which would be suitable for individuals earning $40,000 to $60,000 annually. Hicks highlighted the challenge faced by individuals, such as a Rising Tide tenant who, despite making significant progress and gaining employment, struggles to find a new affordable apartment.
Rising Tide is actively pursuing applications for federal and provincial programs to construct 250 to 300 units within this housing category. Julia Woodhall-Melnik, co-director of the Home Research Lab at UNB Saint John, acknowledged the importance of diversifying the housing market but expressed concerns about the proposed rent range. She emphasized the need for housing affordability based on the median income of renters.
Woodhall-Melnik advocated for the development of deeply affordable housing options and emphasized the importance of catering to various income levels. She pointed out that while certain types of units like studios and one-bedroom apartments have relatively healthy vacancy rates, the market trend leans towards luxury units, potentially excluding many individuals in need of affordable housing.
While Moncton has seen a surge in residential construction activity, with a record number of new units approved in 2025, the affordability of these units remains uncertain. Woodhall-Melnik cautioned that incentives offered to developers to include affordable units may not guarantee long-term affordability. Despite challenges, Rising Tide has successfully established 138 affordable housing units and is undertaking new projects to address the growing demand for affordable housing in the region.
Hicks reflected on the evolving homelessness crisis in Moncton, noting the increasing gap between housing supply and the rising number of homeless individuals. He emphasized the urgent need to accelerate housing development to keep pace with the growing homelessness issue in the community.
