Missing Middle Housing: What It Is and How We Get More

Los Angeles residents are struggling to find affordable housing in their desired neighborhoods. One solution to this problem is the addition of "missing middle" housing.

Missing middle housing refers to a range of housing types that fall between single-family homes and large apartment buildings, such as duplexes, triplexes, and courtyard apartments. These types of homes were once common in Los Angeles. Hello, bungalow courts!

One of the benefits of bringing back missing middle housing is affordability. Missing middle housing in neighborhoods can provide more affordable options for residents, including young professionals, families, and seniors.

However, missing middle housing has disappeared due to zoning regulations. Many Los Angeles neighborhoods have zoning laws that only allow for single-family homes or large apartment buildings, leaving no room for the middle ground. Changing these zoning laws and allowing for more diverse housing options can promote affordability and create more vibrant, diverse communities.

It's time to advocate for the addition of missing middle housing in Los Angeles. That’s why Westside for Everyone is a proud supporter of the Livable Communities Initiative, an effort to push Los Angeles to change zoning laws that would make it easier to build missing middle housing near commercial streets that can create the “main street” neighborhood experience that so many LA residents want.

Learn more about the Livable Communities and ways that you can support them here.