Housing Affordability
We have heard from various member communities, state partners, and regional organizations that housing affordability has been, and continues to be, a significant problem facing our towns and cities. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, housing costs were rising. Now, along with many other lasting impacts, the pandemic has exacerbated the issue. State agencies and other regional organizations have recognized this growing concern as well, and SMPDC is staying up to date on incoming resources, guidance, and plans for the use of federal funding to address the issue.
LD 2003, "An Act To Implement the Recommendations of the Commission To Increase
Housing Opportunities in Maine by Studying Zoning and Land Use
Restrictions"
- LD 2003 was passed into law April 2022, requiring municipalities to increase housing density allowed in their zoning ordinances in various ways.
- Full Law Language
- LD 2003 Breakdown PowerPoint Slides
Studies & Plans
Housing Affordability Report Part 1: Maine Housing Affordability Indices
- Municipalities say affordable housing is their greatest challenge
- Home prices continue to rise; incomes have not kept pace. Between 2015-2019, York County median incomes increased by 13.54%, while median home prices increased by 34.88%.
- The data shows that the county as a whole is unaffordable for working class families
- The lack of affordable housing in York County is more extreme and appears to be progressing more rapidly than the state overall
- Inland towns affordability fluctuates over time but in general, they are closer to the affordable threshold whereas coastal towns are unaffordable for most people