By Jeanene Dunn
In cities across the country, a silent force can stall progress on housing affordability: NIMBYism. Short for “Not in my Backyard,” the term describes residents who may say they support new housing development projects, just not near their own homes.
According to Patrick Tuohey, Director of Policy at the Better Cities Project, this contradiction lies at the heart of why housing continues to be out of reach for many.
NIMBYs are typically long-time homeowners who oppose new development projects near their properties. While their reasons may vary—from preserving neighborhood character to concerns over traffic or school crowding—Tuohey emphasizes that this resistance often stems from a desire to protect property values rather than foster community growth.
“People think they’re preserving what they love, but in doing so, they’re shutting others out,” he said.
Growth brings change, and change makes many homeowners uncomfortable. Tuohey points out that fears about increased density, noise, or unfamiliar neighbors can fuel opposition to even modest development.
This resistance is often rooted in outdated planning models. “Roughly 75% of the U.S. is zoned for single-family housing,” Tuohey explained. “That zoning makes it incredibly difficult to build the kinds of diverse, walkable and affordable neighborhoods we actually need.”
One reason NIMBYs have disproportionate influence is their consistent presence at local zoning meetings. “It’s older, wealthier homeowners who have the time to show up and voice opposition,” Tuohey said. These vocal groups sway risk-averse elected officials who often prioritize short-term neighborhood harmony over long-term community growth.
In contrast, supporters of new housing—such as young families, renters or lower-income residents—rarely attend these meetings, either due to time constraints or because they don’t yet live in the neighborhood. As a result, the political narrative becomes skewed toward preserving the status quo.
Opposing new housing doesn’t just stop construction, it drives up the cost of homes across the board. When new supply is restricted, demand concentrates on existing homes, pushing prices higher and squeezing out first-time homebuyers.
Even luxury developments, Tuohey noted, help alleviate market pressure by freeing up housing stock as people move between homes.
Tuohey’s advice for residents who want to see more housing? Speak up. “We need more YIMBYs—Yes in my Backyard advocates—who will show up and support development,” he said. These voices can help balance the conversation and encourage city officials to pursue more inclusive policies.
Supporting zoning reforms, advocating for mixed-use developments and encouraging small-scale builders are other ways to back sustainable growth. Neighborhoods like Waldo in Kansas City show what’s possible when communities embrace diversity in housing types and design.
To solve the housing crisis, communities must reframe how they view development. New housing isn’t a threat. It’s an opportunity for vitality, equity and economic mobility. As Tuohey put it, “We need to stop seeing change as decline and start seeing it as growth.”
If you agree, sign up to receive communication on our efforts toward mitigating the housing attainability crisis.
