Between environmental regulations and stubborn local homeowner groups, it’s very difficult to build in California. Skyrocketing house prices and dwindling supply, though, have given rise to the YIMBY movement. Advocates are battling for new house construction, even in their own backyards.
Realtor.com reports that between 1980 and 2010, California built around “90,000 fewer units per year than were necessary to keep home price growth in line with the rest of the country.” Home prices are now two and a half times the U.S. median, and seven of the 10 priciest housing markets are in California.
Housing advocates are pushing for affordable housing by fighting antidevelopment campaigns, filing lawsuits, and attending public hearings.
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