California Department of Housing and Community Development
Coverage of California Department of Housing and Community Development in the Nexus archive.
- California sues 5 cities over failure to comply with state housing law
California is suing five cities for failing to plan for their share of housing under the state's Housing Element Law, as announced by Gov. Gavin Newsom. Attorney General Rob Bonta and the California Department of Housing and Community Development filed actions against Calexico, Costa Mesa, Half Moon Bay, Ridgecrest, and Turlock for violating the law.
- $104,200 salary in Orange County, California considered 'low-income' by state officials
A six-figure salary of $104,200 in Orange County, California, is now classified as 'low-income' by state housing officials for 2026, up from $94,750 in 2025. High housing costs have pushed this threshold above the county’s median individual income, exacerbating an affordability crisis where only 18% of households can afford a median-priced home. Population declines in Los Angeles County and San Francisco highlight broader regional challenges.
- In Orange County, six-figure salaries now qualify as ‘low income’
In Orange County, individuals earning up to $104,200 annually now qualify as 'low income' under 2026 housing guidelines, a significant increase from $94,750 in 2025. Rising housing costs and stagnant wages are making it difficult for middle-income workers to afford homes, with 51% of residents considering leaving the area due to affordability issues.
- Will Huntington Beach concede defeat in state housing feud?
Huntington Beach faces a state mandate to plan for 13,000 new homes, but the city argues it must plan for 40,000 units to meet affordability requirements. A court ordered compliance or $50,000 monthly fines, prompting the city to revise its plan and seek resident feedback. The Orange County Grand Jury criticized the state’s housing policies, and the City Council will vote on the revised plan.