Government
Middle Housing
The Middle Housing code amendments were adopted by City Council on June 23, 2025. This page documents the update and its outcomes. For current zoning standards, see Title 18 of the Tukwila Municipal Code.
New rules now allow more middle housing in Tukwila — duplexes, townhomes, cottage housing, and courtyard apartments — in most residential neighborhoods. These homes fill the gap between single-family houses and large apartment buildings, creating more housing choices while fitting the scale of existing neighborhoods.
Nearly half of Tukwila renters and a quarter of homeowners are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing. Middle housing helps address rising costs and limited supply by adding options for residents and supporting walkable neighborhoods.
What this means for you
- Thinking about building? You may be able to add a duplex, townhome, or ADU on your property.
- Concerned about change? Middle housing is designed to fit in with the look and feel of existing homes.
- Interested in buying? Middle housing may create more ownership opportunities through condominiums or unit lot subdivisions.
Frequently asked questions
Will middle housing make housing more affordable?
New homes are never cheap, but middle housing can be more affordable than single-family homes since each unit uses less land. Adding more housing overall also helps lower costs by reducing scarcity.
New homes are never cheap, but middle housing can be more affordable than single-family homes since each unit uses less land. Adding more housing overall also helps lower costs by reducing scarcity.
Can middle housing be sold as individual units?
Yes — multiple units on one property can often be sold separately using condominiums or unit lot subdivisions. See the Tukwila Middle Housing Handbook for details.
Yes — multiple units on one property can often be sold separately using condominiums or unit lot subdivisions. See the Tukwila Middle Housing Handbook for details.
How will it affect my neighborhood?
More homes mean more neighbors to support businesses, schools, and community life. Middle housing also gives people more options if their needs change but they want to stay in Tukwila.
More homes mean more neighbors to support businesses, schools, and community life. Middle housing also gives people more options if their needs change but they want to stay in Tukwila.
How can I add units to my property?Many lots now allow more options:
- Convert part of your existing house into an additional unit
- Add a detached ADU in your backyard
- Build new middle housing such as a duplex or cottage cluster
See the Community Residential District Development Standards and Residential Design Guidelines below for requirements.
Key resources
- Tukwila Middle Housing Handbook
- TMC 18.10 — Zoning Code Updates
- Residential Design Guidelines
- Community Residential District Development Standards
State law and background
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