What mixed housing
means in Niagara

Mixed housing is not about one type of housing replacing another. It is about adding more choices, so Niagara can meet changing community needs.

Illustration of mixed housing and attainable housing buildings in Niagara
Commuters travelling on a highway representing housing and workforce challenges in Niagara

Why Niagara needs more housing choices

When people cannot find housing that fits their needs and budget, the impact is felt across Niagara. Workers face longer commutes, families have fewer choices, older adults may be unable to downsize locally and young people may leave the region altogether.

A greater mix of homes — including duplexes, townhomes, secondary suites, apartments and other flexible housing options — can help more people find a home close to work, family, schools and services. More housing choice means stronger communities, a more stable workforce and neighbourhoods that can support people at different stages of life.

What do we mean by mixed housing?

Not every household needs or can afford the same type of home. Mixed housing means planning for a wider range of homes in Niagara so more people can find a place that works for their life.

This can include:

  • duplexes and townhomes
  • secondary suites and basement apartments
  • low-rise and mid-rise apartments
  • rental and ownership choices

This is not about replacing existing neighbourhoods. It is about adding more housing choices over time so Niagara can meet changing community needs.

Examples of duplexes, laneway suites and mixed housing options in Niagara

Key housing terms




Accessory Dwelling Units

A smaller, self-contained home on the same property as a main house, such as a basement apartment or garden suite.

Affordable Housing

Housing that costs no more than 30% of a household’s gross income, including rent or mortgage payments, utilities and taxes.

Attainable Housing

Housing that is within reach for middle-income households. It helps fill the gap between subsidized housing and higher-priced market housing.

Density

A measure of how many homes or people are located within a certain area. In practice, this can include townhomes, apartments or smaller lot sizes that make better use of land and infrastructure.

Missing Middle Housing

Homes such as duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes and townhomes that sit between detached houses and larger apartment buildings. These housing types can help create more housing choice in complete neighbourhoods.

Questions people often ask about mixed housing

"Will more housing lower property values?"

FALSE
Residential neighbourhood representing concerns about property values and mixed housing
Lots of things affect the property values, but mixed housing alone does not automatically lower property values.

"Does more density mean more crime?"

FALSE
Mixed housing development integrated into a residential neighbourhood
No. Neighbourhoods with more people and active streets can support a strong sense of community and safety.

"Is mixed housing the same as social housing?"

FALSE
Mixed housing neighbourhood with a variety of housing types and residents
No. Mixed housing includes many types of homes, at different price points, ownership types and lengths of stay.
Read more myths and facts