The Future of Housing in Hamilton County Starts Here
Expanding housing options for a thriving, diverse community.
About Us
The Hamilton County Housing Collaborative is a group of individuals and organizations committed to improving the inventory of housing in every category along the continuum of housing options.
We believe that housing should be attainable for those who desire to call Hamilton County home during every stage of their lives to uphold the economic well-being of Hamilton County.
To ensure housing for all we will:
- Prioritize diversity in housing product types and prices, prioritizing households earning up to 120% AMI.
- Encourage and advocate for lower-cost housing options near jobs and services.
- Explore public-private-philanthropic partnerships to expand resources and dollars aimed at removing barriers to attainable housing.
- Communicate the importance of attainable housing in the County’s economy.
Why Housing Matters in Hamilton County
Hamilton County is growing fast, but home prices are rising even faster. Right now:
- Home prices are increasing at a rate much faster than incomes, making homeownership unattainable for many.
- Workers are struggling to afford to live where they work, impacting businesses and public services.
- More diverse housing options can strengthen the economy, attract talent, and keep communities thriving.
We’re here to make sure housing remains attainable for everyone – from young professionals to seniors looking to downsize.
What We’re Working On
The 2022 Hamilton County Housing Study revealed that to sustain economic well-being, Hamilton County must make diverse housing a priority. In addition to addressing projects with immediate impact, the Collaborative is working in a coordinated way within and across all sectors.
We have identified several initiatives that could generate new or expand existing funding sources critical to the long-term implementation and sustainability of attainable housing across the county.
HCHC is tackling housing challenges from multiple angles.
Here’s how we’re making an impact:
Community Housing Study
Surveying residents to understand housing needs.
Business & Employer Engagement
Helping local businesses support housing solutions.
NIMBY to YIMBY
Shifting perceptions through education & advocacy.
Policy & Advocacy
Working on zoning reforms & funding for attainable housing.
Community Engagement
At HCHC, we are committed to educating the community, fostering open discussions, and shifting mindsets from NIMBY (Not In My Backyard) to YIMBY (Yes In My Backyard).
Through strategic partnerships, storytelling, and fact-based education, we empower residents to support housing solutions that strengthen Hamilton County.
Public Awareness Campaigns
Through media outreach, community meetings, and digital campaigns, we’re educating residents about the benefits of attainable housing.
Local Business & Government Partnerships
We collaborate with local businesses and city leaders to ensure attainable housing is a priority in economic development.
Social Media Engagement
We run targeted social media campaigns using real stories & infographics to shift perceptions about attainable housing.
Data-Driven Housing Education
We use facts & research-based insights to dispel myths and provide clear information on the housing crisis.
Myth vs Reality
Myth: Affordable Housing Lowers Property Values
Reality: Multiple studies show that attainable housing developments do not lower property values – and in many cases, they increase neighborhood stability
A 2022 study by The Urban Institute found that affordable housing in above-median-income areas led to a 0.06% increase in property values.
Myth: If we build affordable housing, those people will move here.
Reality: They’re already here.
Teachers, grocery clerks, medical assistants, landscapers, delivery drivers, childcare workers, and seniors on fixed incomes – these aren’t strangers. They’re our neighbors, coworkers, caregivers, and friends. The truth is that many Hamilton County residents are already struggling to afford to live in the community they serve.
Building housing that fits different incomes doesn’t bring in outsiders – it helps the people who are already part of our community stay and thrive here.
Myth: More Housing Means More Crime
Reality: Research shows that affordable housing strengthens community safety by creating stable neighborhoods and reducing vacancy rates.
Myth: High-Density Housing Hurts the Community
Reality: High-density housing can actually reduce urban sprawl, increase walkability, and improve access to public transportation.
Housing In Action
Real Stories, Real Impact
Housing isn’t just about buildings – it’s about people. These stories showcase how attainable housing transforms lives, strengthens communities, and supports economic growth in Hamilton County.
Meet the residents, business owners, and local leaders advocating for housing solutions.
Watch How Housing Changes Lives
Real people share their experiences with attainable housing and how it has helped them live, work, and thrive in Hamilton County.
Share Your Story
Housing shapes our lives, businesses, and communities. Have you faced challenges finding housing? Struggled to hire due to workforce shortages? Your experience can inspire change and help shape solutions in Hamilton County.
What Kind of Stories Are We Looking For?
Young Adults
· A recent college grad with a full-time job but still living in their parents basement because rent is out of reach.
· A young couple trying to save for their first home, but priced out of the community they grew up in.
Creative Voices
· An artist, musician, or craftsperson whose work enriches our culture but struggles to find a place to live near their studio or gallery.
Essential Workers
· A home health aide, teacher, or bus driver who can’t afford housing near their job and faces long, costly commutes.
· A childcare worker or barista who makes your morning easier but lives 45 minutes away because of limited rental options.
Seniors & Retirees
· An empty-nester looking to downsize, but there are no smaller, affordable homes in their neighborhood.
· A retired resident on a fixed income who has to choose between paying for housing or prescriptions.
Local Employers
· A small business owner struggling to recruit or retain staff because workers can’t afford to live nearby.
· A company leader who wants to grow but sees employees move away due to housing costs.
Educational Resource Hub
Understanding housing issues is key to building a stronger, more inclusive Hamilton County. This hub provides fact-based insights, research, and answers to common questions about attainable housing.
FAQs
What is attainable housing?
Attainable housing refers to homes that are affordable for individuals and families across a range of incomes, ensuring that essential workers, young professionals, and retirees can live in their communities.
Who benefits from attainable housing?
Everyone benefits! Attainable housing helps teachers, nurses, first responders, small business owners, and young families afford to live close to work, reducing commute times and supporting local economies.
Does attainable housing lower property values?
No. Studies consistently show that well-planned attainable housing has no negative impact on property values—and in many cases, it enhances neighborhood stability.
How does zoning impact attainable housing?
Zoning laws determine where and how housing is built. Policies that allow for mixed-use development, duplexes, and accessory dwelling units (ADUs) create more housing options without changing neighborhood character.
Downloadable Reports & Studies
Get Involved
Be Part of the Solution
Housing impacts everyone. Whether you’re an individual, a business, or an organization, there are many ways to support attainable housing in Hamilton County.
Join us at an event, become an advocate, or partner with us to create meaningful change!
Speak Up for Housing
Use your voice to advocate for policy changes, funding, and zoning reforms that support attainable housing.
Business Partnerships
Employers can support housing initiatives that help retain a stable workforce by advocating for zoning reforms and workforce housing.
Stay Connected
Follow us on social media and share our mission with your network.
Volunteer
Help with community outreach, events, or fundraising efforts to support housing initiatives.
This collective impact initiative was initially funded by Hamilton County Trustees Association, and staffed by HAND, Inc., a Hamilton County leader in promoting prosperity and diversity by providing quality housing opportunities.
Follow us on social and find content with our hashtags
#RethinkHousing | #HousingINHamCo
Contact HCHC
Interested in learning more or joining the Hamilton County Housing Collaborative? We’d love to hear from you! Reach out to us for information on our initiatives, partnership opportunities, or how you can get involved. Together, we can make a difference in our community’s housing landscape.