Independent schools across the country have been facing a growing challenge—housing affordability for faculty—that extends beyond traditional concerns about compensation and benefits. As home prices and rental costs continue to rise across most regions, many teachers are finding it increasingly difficult to live affordably near the schools they serve. At the same time, schools are operating within tight financial constraints that limit their ability to respond through salary increases alone.
This report explores how housing affordability is shaping recruitment, retention, and overall workforce sustainability within the independent school landscape. Drawing on data from NAIS surveys, interviews with heads of schools, and national housing trends, the report details the challenges schools are facing and how they are attempting to address them. Many school heads report that housing costs are a significant barrier to recruitment, especially for early-career educators, while retention impacts are more limited or uneven.
This report aims to provide school leaders with a clearer understanding of the housing affordability landscape and the trade-offs associated with different approaches.
Sections include:
- Stories From the Field
- Challenges Facing Independent Schools
- Housing Affordability Solutions
- Other Recruitment and Retention Strategies
Full Report
- NAIS Research: 2026 Report on Faculty Housing Among Independent Schools (PDF; member login required)
Quick View
Quick Views are high-level summaries showcasing key data points. They designed to serve as a quick reference point before diving deeper into the full analysis.
For Nonmembers, Community Catalysts, and Standard Subscribers: Purchase the Report
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For free access to this report, along with many other resources for independent school leaders, schools can join NAIS today. Contact our membership team if you have any questions about how NAIS membership can benefit your school.