Tokyo's Success: A Blueprint for Saving America's Cities

American cities grappling with a housing affordability crisis can learn from Tokyo's successful approach to housing policy. Tokyo has tripled its housing supply since the 1960s, while US cities have only grown by about a third. Tokyo's liberal and centralized land-use policies give developers the power to build what they want, resulting in more abundant and affordable housing. In contrast, the US has complex zoning regulations, historic preservation laws, and local interests that hinder new housing development. Japan's concentrated decision-making at the national level prioritizes the broader community's interest in housing abundance over opposition from neighbors. Additionally, Japan's acceptance of impermanence, frequent building code updates, and smaller living spaces contribute to a more efficient and affordable housing market. American policymakers are starting to consider adopting elements of Japan's housing policy, such as centralized and non-restrictive zoning, to address the housing crisis.