In 2024, between 90 and 140 million Americans lived in counties where multi-unit housing could have been feasibly built and offered at an affordable price point to middle-income households, yet restrictive zoning often prevents it, according to Upforgrowth. Between 25-42% of the US population faces barriers to affordable living, a significant challenge for middle-income families seeking stable housing.
Housing demand is soaring and affordability is plummeting, but existing zoning often prevents the very types of modest, multi-unit homes that could address the crisis. This tension creates a gap between market needs and available housing solutions.
As housing pressures intensify, more cities will likely embrace Missing Middle Housing reforms, trading traditional single-family exclusivity for more diverse, affordable, and sustainable community development. For more, see our What missing middle housing and.
What Exactly is Missing Middle Housing?
Missing Middle Housing refers to multi-unit housing types compatible in scale with single-family homes, yet offering greater density and affordability. These include townhomes and plexes, typically buildings with two to ten units.
Townhomes and plexes are the most feasible multi-unit options for middle-income households, according to Upforgrowth. This design allows for increased residential density discreetly, without altering a neighborhood's established character, as noted by Pdxscholar. The goal is to accommodate construction, replacement, or conversion of standard single-family homes into more compact, multi-unit infill housing, according to srcity. This approach offers a practical framework for increasing housing supply, making it a crucial tool for cities seeking to grow without sacrificing community aesthetics.
How Cities Are Making Room: Zoning Reforms in Action
Minneapolis updated its zoning codes in 2040, allowing three units on any residentially zoned parcel, according to Minneapolis 2040. This proactive policy directly addresses housing scarcity by enabling diverse housing development.
