Survey Indicates Growing Support for Middle Housing Development
Most homeowners are in favor of ADUs, duplexes, and other types of middle housing development if they will improve inventory
Aug. 15, 2024
Image: Dolores Harvey / stock.adobe.com
The development of middle housing, such as duplexes, could improve housing inventory.
With elevated home prices and an ongoing housing shortage, support for new types of developments is growing. According to a recent survey from real estate marketing platform Zillow, most people are supportive of middle housing—such as duplexes, small apartment buildings, and accessory dwelling units—in residential neighborhoods. About 78% of homeowners back at least one of these options, while support among renters is even higher at 91%. Zillow’s research also suggests modest densification, such as allowing two units on 10% of single-family lots, could significantly increase housing supply and help slow price growth. ADUs had the highest support, with 68% of respondents in favor.
Duplexes, triplexes and small condo/apartment buildings (of fewer than 10 units) generally enjoyed majority support: 59% of those surveyed said they would support allowing duplexes and triplexes in their neighborhood, and 57% said the same about small condo or apartment buildings of fewer than 10 units. Medium buildings (between 10 and 49 units) saw a closer divide, with about half (50%) indicating support, 44% saying they were opposed, and 6% saying they were unsure.
