Affordable Housing and Inclusionary Zoning

In a publication by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, a study takes a look at ways to expand housing opportunities through inclusionary zoning (IZ). The study, conducted by the Urban Institute in 2012, focused on two counties in Maryland and Virginia to examine the effectiveness of IZ programs.

Inclusionary zoning requires builders of new residential developments to set aside a certain percentage of housing units for low-income residents. The Urban Institute found that counties implementing inclusionary zoning had stronger housing markets as long as programs are kept up to date with affordability levels and unit requirements. Research into housing agencies’ and nonprofit organizations’ use of IZ-produced units can help developers understand how to sustain and extend IZ affordability in other counties.

Although the study concludes more research is necessary to evaluate the costs and benefits of IZ programs, it shows that IZ programs provide important aid to those who need it. If more regions choose to implement IZ practices, the benefits of high-quality school districts and employment opportunities will become more easily accessible to residents who rely on affordable housing availability.  

To learn more, check out the complete report, "Expanding Housing Opportunities Through Inclusionary Zoning: Lessons from Two Counties."