Governor Josh Stein has signed a new North Carolina affordable housing executive order aimed at tackling rising housing costs and increasing housing access across the state.
The executive order directs state agencies to coordinate efforts focused on increasing housing supply, improving affordability, and supporting long-term housing development across North Carolina communities.
Housing Costs Continue Rising Across North Carolina
State officials say North Carolina faces a shortage of more than 750,000 housing units through 2029. Rising home prices and rent costs continue impacting families, seniors, veterans, military families, and teachers throughout the state.
The North Carolina affordable housing executive order also creates a new Senior Advisor for Housing Policy role within the Governor’s Office. The position will help develop a statewide housing strategy and coordinate efforts between state agencies and local governments.
Officials say nearly half of all renters in North Carolina spend more than 30 percent of their income on housing costs.
New Development and Zoning Incentives Included
The order encourages higher-density zoning policies and additional housing development incentives for local communities. State leaders hope the effort will help increase housing options while supporting economic growth.
Affordable housing continues to be a major issue in growing areas across Moore County, Southern Pines, Pinehurst, and surrounding Sandhills communities, where rising population growth has increased pressure on housing inventory.
The executive order also encourages agencies to use technology and data-driven planning to support builders and local governments attempting to expand housing opportunities.
Governor Stein says the goal is to create more affordable homeownership opportunities while preserving existing housing for low- and moderate-income families.
The North Carolina affordable housing executive order takes effect immediately.
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