Research Symposium

BIO

I am a senior Managament Information Systems major at Florida State University. My experiences and skill sets in MIS have led me to my position as Data Analytics Manager at the DeVoe L. Moore Center. As leader of the Data Analytics Group, I manage a team of interns that specialize in acquiring and cleaning data for our K-12 Education database on https://www.floridaopengov.org. This database is then utilized by our team to conduct quantitive research into Florida’s K-12 Education system.

Light Touch Density’s Effect on Tampa Bay, Florida

Abstract

As South Florida faces rapid population growth, housing shortages have intensified, leading to a near doubling of housing prices over the last 20 years. This crisis demonstrates the need for innovative strategies to enhance housing supply without significantly altering neighborhood character. Light touch density (LTD), which promotes modest density increases through accessory dwelling units and infill conversions, emerges as a promising solution. The American Enterprise Institute (AEI) suggests LTD can boost housing supply by 20-50% in South Florida over 10 years, highlighting its potential to mitigate affordability issues.
This study explores "How can light touch density affect rent prices in South Florida’s most populous counties?" Data compiled from U.S. Census Bureau and Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED) spanning 2003-2022 on housing units, rent prices, demographics, and economic indicators is used for Python-based linear regressions to determine the impact additional housing units have on rent, compared to historical trends.
Preliminary results indicate a significant reduction in rent prices in Tampa Bay's Hillsborough County over a decade, with a 20% supply increase leading to roughly a $80-200 monthly, or $1,000-$2,400 yearly, rent decrease. Consequently, South Florida's urban counties are advised to adopt LTD policies, fostering housing density increases through streamlined accessory dwelling units and infill conversions processes.
This analysis demonstrates LTD's potential as a pivotal tool for improving housing affordability, offering a strategic framework for policymakers amidst Florida's housing crises. Further research across Florida into LTD's impact on housing prices is recommended for a holistic understanding of its benefits.

Keywords: Affordable Housing, Tampa