In Latvia, housing sizes are notably smaller than those in Western Europe; however, the general quality of life remains high on a global scale. This is particularly significant during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, when many residents temporarily transitioned from urban to rural areas, raising awareness of the tight living conditions found in cities. Despite the small average size of homes, which ranks among the lowest in Europe, many citizens still aspire to own private houses, reflecting an enduring ideal of spacious living.

Most of the housing in Latvia was constructed before 1990, and new developments have been minimal in comparison. The pandemic heightened the sense of crampedness in urban dwellings due to movement restrictions. Conversations have evolved around the concept of suburban living, which now includes cities such as Sigulda, Cēsis, and Valmiera, as many people look for alternatives to living in the capital city, Riga.

In Riga, urban expansion in the surrounding areas, known as Pierīga, has been accompanied by denser development within the city itself. Despite being aware of the increasing population, growth has decelerated compared to rates seen fifty years ago. This juxtaposition of urban density and suburban expansion illustrates the challenges and transformations in housing preferences as the population continues to adapt to changing living conditions.