"Unused church properties are emerging as a viable housing supply source as two slow-moving trends converge: declining church attendance and an escalating housing affordability crunch. Many congregations have surplus land but tighter budgets, while cities are short on well-located sites for new homes."
"Virginia became the third state to pass a yes in God's backyard (YIGBY) law that allows housing on unused church property by right. California was the first to allow housing on church property without rezoning."
"Church attendance has fallen for years, weakening donation revenue and leaving many congregations with high maintenance costs, aging buildings and underused parking lots. A recent Gallup analysis found religious engagement has declined, with fewer people seeing it as very important."
"California's Affordable Housing on Faith Lands Act allows religious institutions and nonprofit colleges to build 100% affordable multifamily housing by right on land they own, even where local zoning would otherwise prohibit that housing type."
Unused church properties are increasingly viewed as potential housing solutions amid declining church attendance and rising housing costs. Many congregations face budget constraints and have surplus land, while cities lack suitable sites for new homes. States like Virginia, California, and Florida are changing zoning laws to facilitate housing development on church land. These changes aim to streamline approvals for multifamily housing, allowing religious institutions to convert underused properties into affordable housing without lengthy rezoning processes.
Read at www.housingwire.com
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