Seattle, WA, Seattle Housing Levy (most recently 2023) Case Study
Housing Ballot Measures
First authorized in 1986, the Seattle Housing Levy has been renewed six times by city voters, most recently in 2023 by a 69-31 margin. The most recent reauthorization is expected to produce an estimated $970 million over seven years to support affordable housing. The levy is assessed via property taxes and amounts to about $375 a year in additional taxes for the owner of a median-valued home in Seattle (roughly $830,000). The program is administered by the city’s Office of Housing, with oversight from an independent oversight committee of public officials and community members, appointed by the Mayor and City Council.
Levy funds can be used for affordable rental production and preservation, operation and maintenance of supporting services for vulnerable populations, homeownership, household preservation/stabilization, and administration.
The two most recent renewals of the Levy were championed and organized through Yes for Homes, a 501(c)(4), which was supported by a wide range of community organizations, private companies, trade associations, and philanthropic groups.