City Cast Chicago logo
March 29, 2026

'Your City Could Be Better': How Austin is Succeeding at Affordable Housing — Presented By City Cast Chicago

City Cast Chicago

'Your City Could Be Better': How Austin is Succeeding at Affordable Housing — Presented By City Cast Chicago

00:00:00
View all City Cast Chicago episodes

More affordable housing is needed in places like Chicago. Some cities, however, are doing better than others at meeting this need. Austin, Texas, for example, is building more affordable housing than any other American city right now — 50% more, by some measures, than the second most successful city. However, this fast-growing city is also seeing a shortage in housing that middle- and lower-income residents can afford. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Austin podcast host Nikki DaVaughn about this paradox, the city’s affordable housing successes, and where Austin’s still falling short. Plus, how far is too far to walk to a neighbor’s house?

Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now! 

We’re also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter

Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Hey Chicago

Stay connected to City Cast Chicago and get ready to join the local conversation.

Can't subscribe? Turn off your ad blocker and try again.

Latest Episodes

See all
July 15

Influential Priest Accused of Abuse, Beware Raw Lettuce, and All-Star Weekend

The Rev. Michael Pfleger, the St. Sabina parish leader for 45 years, has been removed from his position as the Archdiocese of Chicago inv...

City Cast Chicago podcast episode art
July 14

Tips For Second Heat Wave. Also, Can the Onion Make Infowars Funny?

Another heat wave is hitting Chicago. Here's what to expect. Also on today's podcast, we talk to Onion executive editor Jordan LaFlure ab...

City Cast Chicago podcast episode art
July 13

City’s Street Vendor Crackdown, Mayoral Quiz, and Belugas at Shedd

Chicago is seeing a rise in enforcement against immigrant street vendors. Over the last few months the Street Vendors Association of Chic...

City Cast Chicago podcast episode art
July 10

Is Chicago Still Broke? Plus, ICE Arrests Increasing

What have we learned in the last week about the city’s financial position, and what does that mean for the growing field of mayoral candi...

City Cast Chicago podcast episode art
July 9

Mayor’s Transit and Public Health Picks. Plus, ‘Love Island’ Mania and Chicago’s Next Hit Show

Today we’re talking about some new appointments coming out of the Johnson administration, including a new Public Health Commissioner and...

City Cast Chicago podcast episode art
July 8

Is Chuy Garcia Controlling Congressional Race? Plus, a Visit to Feld

U.S. Rep. Jesus “Chuy” Garcia (4th) has been accused of thumbing the political scales in favor of his chosen successor. In November, Garc...

City Cast Chicago podcast episode art
July 7

Why Massage Parlors Are Getting Raided in the 12th Ward

Two illicit massage parlors on Archer Avenue were raided within weeks of each other — including one next door to 12th Ward Ald. Julia Ram...

City Cast Chicago podcast episode art
July 6

Who Will Replace Retiring Police Chief? Plus, Chicago's New Gayborhood?

The Chicago Police Department will be without a permanent police superintendent starting July 15, as current superintendent Larry Snellin...

City Cast Chicago podcast episode art
July 3

'Your City Could Be Better': The Ultimate USA Trivia Battle. How Much Do You Know? — Presented By City Cast Chicago

See if your Chicago knowledge serves you well! In the first-ever Your City Could Be Better trivia episode, City Cast CEO David Plotz goes...

City Cast Chicago podcast episode art
July 2

What Is a Tenant Bill of Rights? Plus, Cold Treats For the Heat

This week, Mayor Brandon Johnson pitched the Protecting Renter’s Ordinance, which the city calls a “comprehensive modernization” of Chica...

City Cast Chicago podcast episode art