Oregon needs to build 36,000 new homes annually to meet the growing demand for housing, but last year, only 14,000 permits were issued, and they were mostly for single-family homes. The shortage has led to skyrocketing rents, a growing unhoused population, and a median home price topping half a million dollars statewide. In fast-growing areas like Bend, the affordability crunch is particularly acute.
Governor Kotek, recognizing this crisis, signed five new laws this week that address everything from zoning reform and modular housing to infrastructure financing and streamlined building processes.
Oregon’s new housing laws are designed to make it faster, easier, and more affordable to build the kinds of homes our communities need—especially in high-demand areas like Bend.
House Bill 2138, Legalizing Middle Housing, ensures that cities can no longer limit housing to just single-family homes. That means more duplexes, townhomes, and other affordable options in neighborhoods across Central Oregon.
Here are some of the specific benefits of the other bills:
Together, these changes aim to lower costs, boost supply, and create more housing choices—helping families in Central Oregon and beyond find a place to call home.
Governor Kotek’s message was clear: this is just the beginning. “Today’s not a victory lap,” she said. “We have a lot to do.”
For over 30 years, The Foundation for Affordable Housing (FFAH) has been helping to build and manage hundreds of affordable housing communities accounting for thousands of homes.
Founded by Tom and Deborrah Willard, our organization is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) public benefit nonprofit corporation. Read more about FFAH here.
