In Sacramento, Leslie Lucas, like many others, found herself in a precarious housing situation. Priced out of traditional market-rate apartments but earning too much for affordable housing, she typified the struggle of the “missing middle” — individuals earning between $60,000 and $80,000 annually. Lucas’s story echoes the experiences of teachers, state workers, and young professionals in the region who grapple with the challenge of finding suitable accommodation.
Middle Income Housing: Sacramento’s Answer to the Housing Crisis (Photo from: Inside Sacramento)
Developing Solutions for the Missing Middle Income Housing
Public agencies and developers in Sacramento are increasingly focusing on addressing the needs of middle-income earners. While the city has made strides in supporting affordable housing for low-income residents, attention to middle-income housing has been limited until recently. However, initiatives like the Capitol Area Development Authority’s (CADA) partnership program with developers signal a shift towards creating housing options for this demographic.
CADA’s innovative approach involves providing loans to developers for income-restricted projects aimed at middle-income earners. For instance, the Kind Downtown project, developed by Urban Elements, offers affordable units to individuals earning 80% of the median income.
This model, which fosters collaboration with nonprofit housing organizations, presents a viable solution to middle-income residents’ housing crisis.
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Expanding Opportunities for Middle Income Housing Residents
Sacramento developers like John Vignocchi and Urban Capital are building middle class income housing for residents earning 80% to 120% of the median income. This increase in urban core housing options indicates a rising awareness of the middle-income affordability gap.
As California faces a housing crisis affecting millions, middle-income Californians, especially excluded ones, are increasingly recognized. Middle-class people are generally disregarded in housing regulations, while low-income earners receive significant support. A cohesive approach is needed to make housing, including homeownership, Middle Income Housing that is affordable and accessible to all.
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