Confronting the Challenges of “Not in My Backyard (NIMBY)” Attitudes

NIMBY or NIMBYism is a common term that stands for “Not In My Backyard.” It refers to someone who objects to growth and, most commonly, housing development where they live. This attitude often stems from fears surrounding declining property values, increased traffic or changes to neighborhood character. NIMBYism often arises during the planning process for housing developments, during which project plans undergo multiple rounds of staff review and public hearings. NIMBYism at these public hearings can put significant pressure on elected officials to reject the plans, even if the plans fully comply with local zoning and regulations. 

Understanding NIMBY Attitudes

Most people, regardless of political ideology or geolocation, recognize there is a need for housing and agree that affordable housing is a priority. However, when presented with plans for additional housing in their communities, they can be quick to reject it in areas that directly impact them. They fear that affordable housing, rental housing or dense development will attract undesirable people, and resist new housing based on stigma and bias rather than facts. A 2022 case study by Urban Institute in Alexandria, Va., proved that affordable housing developments can actually have the opposite effect — with a net zero, if not positive, impact on property values.

NIMBYs also commonly fear that more housing will lead to more people, which will lead to more traffic. Studies have found that traffic impact analyses, which are frequently used to predict the effects of new developments, tend to overestimate vehicle traffic, particularly in urban areas where alternative transportation options are available. For instance, a policy brief by the UC Institute of Transportation Studies highlights how conventional traffic studies may discourage high-density development by focusing on vehicle traffic rather than overall accessibility. Although traffic concerns should be considered, they should not overshadow the advantages of increasing housing supply.

A third concern often raised by NIMBYs is that growth will erode the community character they enjoy. The reality is that communities have always evolved in response to changing needs, demographics and economics. A static version of community character can prevent necessary adaptation and exclude new residents who contribute to community vibrancy. Thoughtful growth is essential for a community’s long-term economic sustainability; it supports local business, attracts investment and helps maintain public services by expanding the tax base. Some of the most cherished, charming and walkable neighborhoods in the United States contain various multifamily and missing middle housing options that are blocked or illegal to produce today.

Impact on Housing

There must be millions of homes produced in the coming years to meet the current gap between supply and demand in the United States. NIMBYism stands as a universal roadblock to alleviating housing costs, and ensure that all Americans have a safe, affordable place to live.

When NIMBYism is successful at dissuading elected officials from approving housing plans or delaying the approval timeline, the result is a lack of housing to meet growing demand and increased socioeconomic segregation. NIMBYism can act in tandem with exclusionary land use policies such as single-family zoning and large minimum lot sizes to exclude people of lower-income levels from being able to live in desirable areas.

How NAHB is Working to Overcome NIMBY Attitudes

By resisting change, NIMBYism often attempts to preserve the status quo at the expense of opportunity, equity and sustainability. Overcoming this opposition means an investment in neighborhoods that can welcome new families, support local businesses and ensure that people of all backgrounds can have a place to call home.

When faced with a public opposed to a project, it can be helpful to engage community leaders or members who have previously benefitted from a similar type of housing. This gives a face to the families who will be able to live, work and send their kids to the schools now that they can afford to live there. Many individuals who would benefit from these housing developments often lack the time and ability to attend public hearings, so this also helps remind elected officials that the most vocal audiences are not always representative of the community at large.

As mentioned, there are valid concerns about traffic, environmental impacts or community design that can be addressed when heard and understood. Community steering groups can be an effective method of generating and addressing true concerns related to growth.

NAHB provides resources and assistance to members and state and local associations to help combat NIMBYism in their area. For example, NAHB recently supported the Home Builders and Remodelers Association of Massachusetts (HBRAM) against a NIMBY challenge to zoning reform legislation to allow multifamily housing near transit facilities. Multifamily developments near transit hubs alleviate shortages, boost local economies, and reduce environmental impacts. Through support from NAHB’s Legal Action Fund, HBARM highlighted the broader implications of zoning reform and how housing shortages affect everyone — from young families seeking starter homes to seniors in need of accessible options.

To help continue educating stakeholders on the necessity and benefit of housing production in the face of NIMBYism, NAHB has created a video that highlights the value new housing can add to local communities.

To learn more, visit NAHB’s Land Use 101 toolkit.