A global study by Habitat for Humanity International reports that 63 percent of Ethiopian respondents are dissatisfied with their housing, compared with a 35 percent global average.

The dissatisfaction rate ranks among the highest recorded across the 22‑country survey, highlighting the strain of rapid urbanisation, population growth and climate risks on Ethiopia’s housing market.

Residents of informal settlements report the greatest level of unhappiness, with 74 percent indicating dissatisfaction.

Safety concerns are widespread: more than half of respondents say they do not feel safe at home, and 49 percent cite insecure doors, windows or boundaries as a barrier to feeling secure, versus 32 percent globally.

Extreme weather also undermines safety, with 35 percent of Ethiopians reporting that severe weather affects their sense of protection, rising to 39 percent among low‑income households.

Housing stress translates into broader socioeconomic pressure: over one‑third of respondents identify housing as a major source of stress, and many cut back on other expenses or take extra work to meet housing costs.

Habitat for Humanity Ethiopia’s National Director Yitna Tekaligne emphasised that every household deserves a safe and decent place to live and called for increased investment in affordable, adequate housing as urbanisation accelerates.

The report links housing improvements to wider development goals, noting that better shelter can boost health, education, livelihoods and economic growth.