Bellevue is actively reshaping its housing policies to meet the growing demand for affordable and diverse housing options. Recent initiatives reflect the city’s commitment to fostering inclusive growth and addressing housing challenges.
Affordable Housing Strategy Update
In March 2026, the Bellevue City Council advanced an updated Affordable Housing Strategy (AHS) for 2026-2032. This plan aims to produce and preserve over 5,700 affordable units for residents earning between 0 and 80% of the area median income (AMI) over the next decade. The strategy focuses on five core pillars: Affordable Housing, Housing Equity, Housing for Unique Needs, Housing Stability, and Housing Supply & Diversity. Notably, the AHS emphasizes the importance of affordable housing revenue to support these goals, alongside regulatory reforms and programmatic changes.
Middle Housing Code Revisions
In July 2025, the City Council approved updates to housing regulations to comply with state laws mandating more diverse housing types. These changes permit ‘middle housing’—such as duplexes, cottage courts, and small apartment buildings—in neighborhoods previously restricted to single-family homes. While the final version of the zoning changes was more limited than initially proposed, it represents a step toward increasing housing options in Bellevue.
Multifamily Tax Exemption (MFTE) Program Adjustments
In late 2025, discussions around the Multifamily Tax Exemption (MFTE) program highlighted its role in promoting affordable housing development. Councilmember-elect Naren Briar emphasized priorities like increasing housing supply, enhancing safety, and fostering walkable, human-scale communities. The MFTE program is seen as a tool to incentivize developers to include affordable units in new multifamily projects, contributing to the city’s broader housing affordability goals.
Community Engagement and Future Outlook
The city continues to engage with residents and stakeholders to refine and implement these housing strategies. Public hearings, surveys, and information sessions are integral to this process, ensuring that community voices shape Bellevue’s housing future. As these initiatives progress, Bellevue aims to create a more inclusive and affordable housing environment for all its residents.