Seattle’s housing strategy shift could boost affordable living with expanded congregate housing

Seattle, Washington – Seattle is about to amend its housing laws significantly in an attempt to solve the housing crisis and provide affordable living options. The land use committee of the Seattle City Council will meet this week to go over proposed legislation meant to change the way the city approaches congregate residences. The change could represent a major departure from the present limited laws that have slowed down the emergence of such housing choices during the last decade.

State restrictions aimed at curbing the spread of microhousing complexes have prohibited congregate housing, which lets individuals rent separate sleeping rooms while sharing kitchens and other communal areas. Originally put in place to control the fast rise in smaller, less costly homes, some are concerned about how this might impact infrastructure and neighborhood dynamics. But with the new state laws, these limitations will be removed, thereby possibly allowing many areas of the city to be home for this kind of living.

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The proposed changes come as the Capitol Hill Urban Cohousing community on 12th Ave prepares to celebrate ten years of shared community living. The success of this project has shown the feasibility and advantages of co-living environments, which include not just less expenses but also improved community engagement.

Bill supporters and sponsor Tammy Morales claim the modifications will assist to solve Seattle’s housing shortage and promote “a relatively lower cost housing option without direct subsidy.” Examples provided in a presentation on the legislation (PDF) show the potential for lower rents and housing costs for residents.

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Under the proposed laws, previously microhousing-restricted regions such as Capitol Hill and the Central District will have their restrictions removed, thereby allowing more general growth of congregate housing. This development is supposed to boost the availability of homes and give residents affordable choices.

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Should the measure, CB 120822, be approved, it would be included into the Land Use Code by end of 2025, therefore guiding residential growth in Seattle. Seattle wants to address its housing problems head-on by changing the strategy to congregate housing, with giving more chances for its citizens to locate affordable, community-oriented homes.