Editing by Ripess Europe
Source: Catalan News
In the midst of Catalonia’s housing crisis, an alternative model is gaining traction: cooperative housing. By 2028, an estimated 2,000 people in Catalonia will be living in cooperative housing, a model that is already well established in countries like Denmark and Austria, where cooperatives account for nearly a third of all homes.
Unlike traditional housing, where tenants rent from landlords or take out mortgages to buy property, cooperative housing is based on collective ownership. Residents do not own their apartments outright but gain the right to live there indefinitely through a non-profit cooperative. This model keeps prices stable and prevents speculation, making housing more accessible to those struggling with soaring market prices.
Cooperative initiatives like Sostre Cívic and Sotrac Cooperativa are leading the movement in Catalonia, offering homes through a system known as transfer of use. Residents contribute an initial investment—typically around 20% of the cost of construction—which is returned if they leave. They then pay monthly fees averaging between €500 and €600, significantly lower than market rates.
For residents, the benefits go beyond affordability. Cooperative housing fosters strong community ties, offering common spaces such as shared kitchens, lounges, and work areas. Some cooperatives cater specifically to elderly residents, helping them maintain social connections, while others, like La Morada in Barcelona’s Nou Barris, provide safe and inclusive spaces for feminist and LGBTQ+ communities.
“Cooperative housing is not just for people who can’t afford to buy a home, but also for those who want to live in a more communal way,” explains Ángela Garcia, professor at the University of Barcelona and Vice President of Sostre Cívic.
The model is also gaining recognition for its sustainability and flexibility. Sotrac has pioneered “satellite apartments,” allowing residents to expand or reduce their living space as their needs change over time. Energy efficiency is another key feature, helping reduce costs while promoting environmentally friendly living.
However, access to land remains a challenge, particularly in Barcelona, where high prices make it difficult to secure plots for cooperative projects. Most cooperatives rely on public land leased by the city, but with limited availability, they are now looking at ways to convert private land into cooperative housing.
“The price of land in Barcelona can represent 50% of the total cost of a housing project, making the model less accessible,” Garcia points out. She argues that government support is crucial—both in terms of funding and legal frameworks—to ensure cooperative housing can grow as a viable alternative.
Despite these hurdles, cooperative housing is gaining momentum as a response to Catalonia’s housing crisis. Last November, Sostre Cívic secured a €31 million loan from the European Investment Bank to develop 350 cooperative housing units by 2026.
As housing prices continue to rise and ownership becomes increasingly out of reach for many Catalans, cooperative housing offers a path toward more equitable, community-driven living—one that prioritizes people over profit.
Living in cooperative housing significantly improves health
Source: Jornal.cat.
Cooperative housing is proving to have significant benefits for physical, emotional, and mental health, according to a study by the Barcelona Public Health Agency (ASPB). The research, conducted as part of the project Cooperative Housing and Health, analyzed the experiences of 280 people across 13 cooperatives. The findings highlight that this housing model—where residents collectively own the property through a non-profit cooperative—fosters greater stability, security, and social connection, all of which contribute to improved well-being.
One of the key findings of the study is the reduction of stress linked to housing and financial insecurity. Unlike conventional housing markets, cooperative housing offers residents stable and lower monthly costs, ensuring greater economic security. This stability not only relieves financial pressure but also creates a sense of safety, reducing the stress and anxiety that often accompany precarious housing situations.
Beyond economic factors, the study emphasizes the importance of community in shaping well-being. Living in a cooperative means being part of a shared project, where mutual support and social interaction play a crucial role. Residents report a stronger sense of belonging, which helps combat loneliness and enhances emotional health. The ability to share responsibilities and resources further strengthens social ties, fostering an environment of trust and collaboration.
The study also points to the physical benefits of cooperative housing, particularly in terms of home quality. Many cooperative housing projects prioritize energy efficiency and thermal comfort, which significantly improve living conditions. By ensuring adequate heating and reducing energy consumption, these homes minimize the health risks associated with poor-quality housing, such as respiratory issues and stress from high utility costs.
Children living in cooperative housing also benefit from this model. The research found that young residents develop stronger social skills, confidence, and self-esteem due to frequent interactions beyond their immediate family. The collective nature of these communities creates opportunities for meaningful connections, fostering a sense of security and belonging from an early age.
However, the report acknowledges that cooperative housing is not without its challenges. Some residents experience frustration and anxiety due to the high initial financial contributions required to join a cooperative. Additionally, the lack of similar housing options in the market makes it difficult for those who need to leave a project to find alternative cooperative housing. The responsibilities of self-governance can also lead to stress and fatigue, particularly when faced with financial decisions or unexpected costs that arise during the development or management of a cooperative.
Despite these obstacles, the study reinforces the idea that cooperative housing is more than just an affordable alternative—it is a transformative model that prioritizes social well-being, economic stability, and sustainable living conditions. With the right policies and support, it could become a key solution to housing insecurity while fostering healthier and more connected communities.
