A new California study found planned housing could cut statewide driving up to 1%, showing homebuilding can support climate, health, and traffic goals together.
Researchers said the biggest benefits come when California adds homes in car-light neighborhoods, where transit works, walking is easier, and shorter trips make driving possible.
More strategic housing placement could lower driving by ~6% per person, well above the ~1% reduction expected under California’s current housing plans.
California’s housing system sets growth targets from the state to regions to cities, yet many local plans missed opportunities in lower-driving neighborhoods.
Researchers said cities faced competing priorities and limited support, and called for stronger state guidance, better data, and technical help for smarter siting.