Oklahoma housing assessment shows small homes in demand

Oklahoma faces a significant housing crisis, with 41% of residents cost-burdened and a high poverty rate. The 2024 Housing Needs Assessment highlights a critical demand for small, affordable homes, particularly in rural areas. Zoning laws favor single-family homes, complicating the construction of smaller units. The state has allocated $215 million to improve housing, but challenges remain, including high development costs and a shortage of skilled labor. Efforts to ease restrictions on housing types and lot sizes are suggested to address these issues.