The Growing Challenge of Affordable Housing in Rutherford and Williamson Counties in Middle Tennessee

Rutherford County, TN - Middle Tennessee, with its picturesque landscapes and thriving communities, has seen substantial growth in recent years. Cities within Rutherford and Williamson counties, including Thompsons Station, Fairview, and Franklin, have become popular destinations for new residents. However, this population influx has driven home prices to new heights, presenting significant challenges in maintaining affordable housing options.

Rising Home Prices: A Double-Edged Sword - Data collected for cities in the Nashville area demonstrates the rapid increase in home values over both short and long terms. For instance:

• Thompsons Station, TN: In the past year, home prices increased by $21,192 (+3.2%), and over the past five years, by an astonishing $270,117 (+64.1%). The typical home value now sits at $691,496.

• Fairview, TN: With a one-year price change of $21,654 (+4.4%) and a five-year change of $192,965 (+60.9%), the typical home value has risen to $509,699.

• Franklin, TN: A five-year price hike of $353,595 (+68.0%) and a current home value of $873,782 showcase the difficulty for prospective buyers in finding affordable options.

Challenges Faced by Residents - The rapid price increase is a boon for current homeowners and real estate investors. However, it poses challenges for those entering the market, particularly for lower- and middle-income families. As home values soar, so do property taxes and overall costs of living. This disparity impacts long-term residents who may find it increasingly difficult to afford to stay in their communities, let alone purchase homes.

Affordable Housing Scarcity - With homes in cities like Brentwood and College Grove reaching values well over a million dollars, the quest for affordable housing becomes more daunting. In Brentwood, the typical home value is $1,296,741, with a five-year price change of +$543,223 (+72.1%). College Grove follows closely with a home value of $1,191,487 and a five-year change of +$489,889 (+69.8%).

The scarcity of affordable housing impacts various demographics, particularly essential workers such as teachers, healthcare professionals, and service industry workers. These individuals play vital roles in maintaining the county’s infrastructure and service levels but often struggle to secure homes near their workplaces, leading to increased commute times and economic stress.

Possible Solutions and Community Efforts - Addressing the affordable housing challenge requires concerted efforts from local governments, community organizations, and developers. Some potential solutions include:

• Incentivizing Affordable Housing Projects: Offering tax breaks and grants to developers willing to create affordable housing units can encourage more projects within the pricing reach of lower-income families.

• Tax Reform: Legislative action to ensure all dwellings are treated uniformly as residential homes for families.

• Zoning Reform: Adjusting zoning laws to increase availability of units while protecting the rural landscape and countryside.

• Public-Private Partnerships: Collaborative projects between the government and the private sector can deliver more balanced and sustainable housing solutions.

The cities within Rutherford and Williamson counties stand as beacons of growth and opportunity in Middle Tennessee. However, this rapid growth necessitates thoughtful, inclusive approaches to ensure that the dream of homeownership remains attainable for all. By understanding and addressing the rising challenges of affordability, these communities can work towards a future where everyone has a place to call home.

Above Data compiled from stacker.com

Above: Submitted by Rutherford Co. Property Assessor Rob Mitchell