Housing Costs
Tower Hamlets councils are currently discussing how high housing costs are driving widespread poverty in the borough.
A report discussed by Tower Hamlets' Overview & Scrutiny Committee in September 2026 highlighted that high housing costs are the single biggest driver of poverty in the borough. The Anti-Poverty Rapid Needs Assessment revealed that child poverty nearly doubles after housing costs are considered, rising from 26.7% to over 50%.
The assessment also estimated that between 117,000 and 130,000 residents in Tower Hamlets are living in poverty, with 40% in relative poverty after housing costs. A significant 84% of households experiencing poverty are working households, underscoring issues of low pay and insecure employment.
Key facts
- Child poverty in Tower Hamlets rises to over 50% after housing costs, a September 2026 report revealed. Source 1 Source 2 Source 3
- High housing costs are identified as the single biggest driver of poverty in Tower Hamlets. Source 1 Source 2
- An estimated 117,000 to 130,000 Tower Hamlets residents live in poverty. Source 1 Source 2
- 84% of households in poverty in Tower Hamlets are working households. Source 1 Source 2
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on, with background from Wikipedia. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.