The Case for Manufactured Homes as an Affordable Housing Solution

Manufactured home communities are the largest source of attainable housing in the U.S., serving millions of people, yet they’re often misunderstood and undervalued. Currently, over half of U.S. households are unable to afford a $300,000 home, and manufactured housing could be the key to rolling out more affordable options at a faster rate, according to Multi-Housing News.

Built offsite, manufactured housing communities often come with lower costs. In addition to their relative affordability, manufactured homes can provide residents with a true neighborhood feel, private yards, and more personal space when built correctly. But despite these benefits, manufactured homes often face a number of challenges, including negative public perceptions and outdated zoning regulations in some parts of the U.S.

One of manufactured housing’s greatest challenges is supply. While demand for affordable housing continues to rise, the development of new MHCs remains hindered by restrictive local zoning codes. These regulations are frequently rooted in the mistaken belief that MHCs lower surrounding property values or pose safety concerns, despite evidence to the contrary. In key regions across the U.S., particularly in the Southeast, supply remains limited despite growing demand.