Housing Security, Mental Health and Fertility: The Significance of a Five-to-Six-Year Stability Horizon

Abstract

This review examines whether housing insecurity may contribute to declining fertility through psychological well-being. Six peer-reviewed studies are reviewed in the findings, with three additional studies informing future research, alongside official demographic statistics. Australian evidence identifies a five-to-six-year residential stability horizon after which renters' mental-health outcomes become statistically comparable to homeowners'. Norwegian evidence associates mental disorders with lower subsequent fertility, while prospective Dutch evidence identifies age-related reproductive risks. The review proposes that delayed residential stability may overlap with a critical period for family formation.