The order directs state agencies to work together and use data and technology to better understand housing needs, potential solutions and where development can occur. The move is part of a broader effort to address what Stein described as a housing crisis driven by rapid population growth and job expansion.
North Carolina is projected to be short more than 750,000 homes by 2029, even as the state continues to attract new residents and experience strong economic growth, Stein said during the announcement.
The shortage is already affecting workers across multiple sectors, including construction and public service roles, he said. "Here in Raleigh, they can only afford 8% of available entry level homes. They can build the homes. They just can't afford to live in the homes. They're built to create meaningful opportunity for every North Carolinian to succeed. We must significantly increase the number of homes and housing units that we build each year. And as too many people are experiencing when there are not enough affordable home options. Home prices, home rents, they go up and they go up for everyone. Affecting young families trying to buy their first home," Stein said.
The executive order also establishes a new senior advisor for housing policy within the governor's office. The role is intended to help coordinate efforts across state government to expand housing construction and improve access.
Stein emphasized that addressing the housing shortage will require collaboration across political and industry lines. "I also want to emphasize that no one person or one group has all of the answers here, and there is a lot more commonality than people may initially think. We're going to all have to come together to solve our housing challenges.
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There are bipartisan efforts at the General Assembly to cut red tape and make it easier to build housing," Stein said. When asked how the state plans to increase housing and affordability at a time when many residents are already dealing with rising costs, Stein said the focus will be on expanding the construction workforce and identifying more land suitable for development.
State leaders say the goal is to ensure that as North Carolina continues to grow, more people can find housing they can afford.
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