New research from the Montgomery County Planning Department estimates that the county could need approximately 53,000 additional housing units by 2050 to accommodate an expected increase of 50,000 households.
The findings, presented to the Montgomery County Planning Board on November 12, highlight growing affordability challenges. In 2024, purchasing a typical home required an estimated annual income of $154,000, compared with the county’s median household income of $141,000. More than half of renters were considered cost burdened.
A countywide housing preferences survey found that 71% of respondents preferred single-family detached homes, although many would consider other housing options if they were more affordable. Additionally, 80% of renters expressed interest in purchasing a home, with 60% identifying the down payment as their biggest obstacle.
The research also found that one- and two-person households accounted for most household growth between 2014 and 2024, while residents ages 65 and older were the fastest-growing age group.
The findings come from three studies examining current housing needs, future demand and resident preferences. Montgomery Planning staff will present the research to the County Council’s Planning, Housing, and Parks Committee on Monday, November 16, to help inform future housing policy discussions.
Additional information is available on the Montgomery Planning website: https://montgomeryplanning.org/
