Housing Demand is Real in Johnson County. Developers, Take Note.
Local employers in Johnson County are competing for talent, and housing is increasingly a deciding factor. With consistent job growth across healthcare, education, manufacturing, and tech, the pressure is on to deliver housing that meets workforce needs. Cities across the county are responding by identifying infill lots, easing zoning where possible for missing middle housing, and offering tools to make projects financially viable.
Johnson County is one of the fastest-growing regions in Iowa, and the demand for housing spans the full spectrum from entry-level homes to downsizing-friendly options. This mismatch is already impacting recruitment and retention, particularly in industries that rely on a stable, mid-income workforce.
National trends reinforce what we’re seeing locally. According to the 2024 Generational Trends Report from the National Association of Realtors, Millennials are the largest group of homebuyers. They’re looking for affordability, walkability, and proximity to jobs, not oversized homes or long commutes. At the same time, Baby Boomers are relocating and downsizing, driving demand for smaller, accessible units.
From a construction standpoint, the market is turning a corner. KPMG’s April 2025 Construction Deep Dive notes that material costs are stabilizing and financing conditions for multifamily housing are improving. While labor availability is still tight, it’s more predictable than in past years, giving developers a clearer path to completion. The economic fundamentals are aligning for new residential projects, especially those targeting workforce and middle-income segments.
This is where Johnson County has begun to make changes. Several communities have started to roll out streamlined planning processes for small-lot single-family homes, duplexes, and ADUs (accessory dwelling units). Others are opening long-held sites to residential development for the first time in decades.
If you’re a developer looking for a place where demand is real, start with Johnson County. Greater IC is here to help developers move projects from vision to reality, cutting through barriers to build greater lasting impact. Johnson County is growing, and we’re ready to help you be part of what’s next.
