How density can bring people together

Research from Canada and around the world has explored how different housing environments shape opportunities for social connection. While high-density living (such as multi-unit housing) is sometimes assumed to limit neighbourly interaction, the evidence linking denser housing to increased loneliness or social isolation remains limited. At the same time, social connection has repeatedly been found to have positive health effects, including being a protective factor against premature death, and supporting sustained independent living. Amid a housing affordability crisis, increasing affordable and accessible multi-unit housing is often one of the most practical policy responses.

So, what role do denser housing types play in fostering social connection?

Research led by Dr. Meg Holden and Dr. Meghan Winters, alongside Simon Fraser University research assistants Olivia Tomlinson, Sreya Ajay, and Ahad Kamranzadeh, seeks to answer this question.

“For the sake of better urban planning and public health policies, it is important to understand whether certain housing situations or typologies deprive residents of the benefits of social connections in their local neighbourhood.”

In “Pro-neighbouring possibilities in community housing for urban health,” Dr. Holden and her team explore the complex relationship between social connection, densification, public health, and urban planning through one key concept: neighbouring. By addressing social connections through the lens of neighbouring, this research is grounded in the idea that health and well-being are shaped by everyday interactions and by both the built and social environment. Feeling connected to neighbours can improve mental and physical health, reduce the risks associated with loneliness, and even help people maintain independence as they age. Neighbourly relationships can also strengthen communities during times of stress, emergency, or social change.

How did they do it, and what did they find?

This study focused on residents living in affordable community housing in Metro Vancouver. Researchers partnered with two non-profit housing providers (Brightside Community Homes Foundation and New Chelsea Society) to better understand what helps people feel socially connected in higher-density housing environments. Surveys were conducted with residents living across 43 affordable housing buildings, representing more than 2,300 housing units.

Notably, this research introduced a “pro-neighbouring index” to measure social connectedness. This index looked at three key indicators: number of close friends, frequency of conversations with neighbours, and attendance at community meetings. 

Here are some key insights from the research:

• There is a bidirectional relationship between neighbouring and loneliness: residents who felt lonelier were less likely to interact with neighbours, while lower levels of neighbourly contact also appeared to increase feelings of loneliness.
• Residents experiencing poor physical health were less likely to participate in formal social activities, pointing to the importance of accessible and inclusive community programming that takes the needs of people with ill health into account.
• Immigrant and refugee residents were more likely to report frequent conversations with neighbours, challenging assumptions that a resident group of mostly newcomers weakens social connections.

Overall, the findings point to the importance of planning and policy approaches that intentionally support neighbouring behaviours in higher-density housing, especially as cities continue to densify. Designing spaces and programs that encourage casual encounters, shared activities, and inclusive participation could help cities create denser communities that are also healthier, more connected, and more resilient.

The Version of Record of this manuscript has been published and is available in Cities and Health, 20 Feb 2026,  http://www.tandfonline.com/10.1080/23748834.2026.2614831