A number of myths about affordable housing continue to circulate. But in reality, communities benefit when they ensure access to affordable housing.

This guide republished with permission from Walk Score.

Walkable neighborhoods offer surprising benefits to our health, the environment, and our communities.

In a post entitled, "Wheels: The Costs of Owning a Car", New York Times blogger Jim Motavelli explores all of the hidden costs to owning a car. 

How much does it cost to own a car? Probably a whole lot more than you think. If your estimates are based on what you paid for your vehicle, plus the cost of gas, oil and repairs, you’re forgetting about insurance, depreciation, parking fees, tolls and registration, among other things.

Employer-assisted housing (EAH) is a cost effective, easy to administer, hassle free way for employers to help their employees buy or rent homes close to work. When working families are not able to live close to work, their long commutes contribute to traffic congestion, dependence on foreign oil, and air pollution. Unstable and unaffordable housing markets, as well as neighborhoods and families devastated by foreclosures affect businesses with increased stress levels, reduced worker productivity, and unsafe neighborhoods.