Miami’s Mayor Daniella Levine Cava is leading the charge for increased affordable housing options in the city, as the region grapples with a growing housing crisis. During her State of the City Address on June 1, 2025, Mayor Levine Cava emphasized the need for bold action to address the city’s affordable housing shortage and to provide relief for middle- and low-income residents struggling to find affordable homes.
The announcement comes as Miami continues to experience a surge in population, with more people relocating to the city due to its booming economy and desirable climate. The demand for housing in Miami has driven up property prices, making it increasingly difficult for working-class families to afford a place to live.
Rising Housing Costs and the Strain on Miami’s Residents
Miami has long been one of the most expensive cities to live in the United States, and recent trends suggest that the housing market is becoming even more out of reach for many residents. The median home price in Miami-Dade County has soared to over $450,000, and rents have similarly increased, putting tremendous financial strain on renters and buyers alike.
The issue is particularly acute in neighborhoods that were once affordable for working-class families. Areas such as Little Havana, Wynwood, and Overtown—once known for their low-cost housing options—are now experiencing rapid gentrification. As new luxury condos and high-end developments spring up in these neighborhoods, long-time residents are being displaced and forced to find housing farther from the city center.
In her address, Mayor Levine Cava noted that many of Miami’s residents are being priced out of the city, with no affordable options to turn to. “Miami is a world-class city, but it must also be a city that works for everyone. We cannot allow the high cost of living to push out the people who make this city great,” she said.
The Mayor’s Plan for Affordable Housing
To address this pressing issue, Mayor Levine Cava has proposed a comprehensive plan to build more affordable housing units throughout the city. The plan calls for the construction of at least 20,000 new affordable homes and apartments over the next five years. These homes would be made available to families earning between 60% and 120% of the area’s median income, a group that has been particularly hard-hit by rising housing costs.
The plan also includes the creation of new housing opportunities for homeless individuals and families, with a focus on transitional housing that can help people move into permanent housing. The city intends to collaborate with non-profit organizations, private developers, and federal agencies to fund and execute these projects.
“Affordable housing is not just a matter of bricks and mortar—it’s a matter of equity and opportunity,” said Levine Cava. “We need to ensure that Miami’s growth is inclusive and that our residents have a place to call home.”
Expanding Housing Options through Zoning Reforms
In addition to increasing the number of affordable units, the mayor is pushing for zoning reforms that would allow for greater density and the construction of mixed-income developments. These changes would allow developers to build taller buildings and more units in areas where zoning restrictions have previously limited growth.
These zoning changes are expected to meet resistance from some Miami residents and community groups who fear that increased density could lead to overcrowding and strain local resources. However, proponents of the reforms argue that expanding housing options is critical to meeting the needs of Miami’s growing population.
The city is also working to streamline the permitting process for affordable housing projects, reducing red tape and speeding up construction timelines.
The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities
While Mayor Levine Cava’s plan has received praise from housing advocates, it will face significant challenges in the coming years. The rising cost of land, along with zoning opposition from local communities, could slow the pace of development. Additionally, the city will need to secure the necessary funding to complete these projects and ensure they remain affordable for residents.
However, there is optimism that Miami’s leadership is finally taking meaningful steps to tackle the affordable housing crisis head-on. With more than 40% of Miami’s residents spending over 30% of their income on housing, the issue has reached a breaking point. The upcoming affordable housing plan offers hope for many, and if successfully implemented, it could serve as a model for other cities facing similar challenges.