Allegany County Planning Announces Housing Study

Press Release

October 7, 2026

For Release: Immediately

Contact: Kier Dirlam – Director of Planning

Office Phone: 585-268-7472

Allegany County Planning Announces Housing Study

Allegany County has completed its Housing Market Assessment and Development Strategy, providing a comprehensive look at current housing conditions, future housing needs, and opportunities for housing development throughout the County.

The study was prepared by CommunityScale, LLC and examined demographic and housing trends, housing affordability, market demand, development barriers, workforce housing needs, and opportunities for new housing investment. The process also included stakeholder focus groups and public engagement to better understand housing needs and challenges from the perspective of residents, employers, municipalities, housing organizations, and other community partners.

The study found that Allegany County’s housing needs are changing as the population ages and household needs evolve. Limited downsizing and aging-in-place options can make it difficult for older residents to find housing that meets their needs while also limiting the availability of existing homes for other households. The study also identified a need for a greater variety of housing options, including rental housing for younger and early-career residents and housing that can help attract and retain professionals and families.

Housing was also identified as an important economic development issue. The assessment found that many higher-earning employees commute into Allegany County from surrounding areas, while employers reported challenges recruiting and retaining workers due in part to the availability of suitable housing. Expanding housing choices can help address local housing needs while also supporting workforce and economic development efforts.

The study identifies opportunities for housing types and development approaches that may better respond to local needs and market conditions. These include smaller and more attainable housing options, additional rental housing, adaptive reuse and upper-story residential development, and housing development in areas where existing infrastructure and community amenities can support growth.

The Housing Market Assessment and Development Strategy will serve as a resource for Allegany County, local municipalities, developers, housing organizations, and other partners as they consider future housing initiatives and investment. The study will also help inform housing-related goals and strategies in the ongoing update of the Allegany County Comprehensive Plan and support future funding opportunities.

The study was funded through the Community Development Block Grant program and completed with assistance from CommunityScale, LLC.

View the Allegany County Housing Market Assessment and Development Strategy.

Here is a link to the study:

https://www.alleganyco.gov/wp-content/uploads/Allegany-County-Housing-Market-Assessment-FINAL-.pdf

A dashboard with data related to housing is available at: https://allegany.communityscale.io/dashboard

HousingStudyPressReleaseOct2026

HousingStudyPressReleaseOct2026

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