Participants in one of the state's 14 listening sessions held in 2024 to develop the state's first comprehensive statewide housing plan.
Understanding and tackling Massachusetts' housing challenge
Massachusetts has had a housing crisis for decades, but it has never had a comprehensive statewide housing plan -- until now. As part of her effort to tackle the short supply and high prices of housing in Massachusetts, Governor Maura Healey directed the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities to develop a plan for addressing all aspects of the housing crisis. This report, the first product of that effort, provides an overview of the state’s housing challenges and outlines five holistic strategies to create a more affordable Commonwealth.
To guide the development of this plan, Governor Healey convened a Housing Advisory Council with members from all sectors and regions of the state. Co-chaired by Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll and Secretary Ed Augustus, this Committee EOHLC provided direction, feedback, and assistance with outreach to diverse groups across the state. EOHLC organized 14 listening sessions that engaged more than 3,000 stakeholders. An external research team conducted a detailed analysis of critical topics and prepared forecasts of Massachusetts population and housing demand under various possible growth scenarios.
The plan outlines the housing challenges facing Massachusetts; identifies currently unmet and projected housing needs; sets goals for housing production and preservation; and outlines five overarching strategies for tackling the crisis. Along with the plan, EOHLC is publishing the first iteration of a Statewide Housing Needs Assessment as a companion document for those interested in the detailed analysis.
Later in 2025, EOHLC will publish an online plan with expanded versions of the Needs Assessment and Strategies, along with supplementary research papers, data visualizations, and advocacy tools. In a new interactive section of mass.gov, users from all backgrounds can search for different topics, dive deep into issues of concern, and get data about their own regions and communities. EOHLC will also treat the plan as a living document, adding research and recommendations emerging from legislative Commissions and other efforts as they emerge.
You can read or download the plan here.
“This plan is not just about addressing a crisis. It is about building a better future for Massachusetts, one where everyone has a place to call home. I invite all of you — our cities and towns, our businesses and nonprofits, our neighbors and community leaders — to be part of this effort.”