Questions about Affordable Housing? Get Answers Here.

You will likely find many of your inquiries addressed here with the answers to our most frequently asked questions. If you do not find the information you are seeking, we invite you to reach out to us directly.

What does the Atlanta BeltLine do to provide affordable housing?

In 2005, as part of the Atlanta BeltLine's founding legislation, Atlanta City Council set a goal of creating/ preserving 5,600 affordable units within the BeltLine TAD by the end of 2030. This goal was based upon 20% of anticipated multi-family growth, and BeltLine project revenues. This is accomplished through multiple strategies with partners:

  • Providing public incentives to affordable housing developments located within the BeltLine TAD through the BeltLine Affordable Housing Trust Fund.
  • Working with the City on Inclusionary Zoning (IZ). IZ is legislation that requires any multi-family rental developments above 10 units include 10% affordable units (at 60% AMI) or 15% affordable units (at 80% AMI). As more of the Atlanta BeltLine is built, more housing supply will be built to meet demand. Mandatory IZ will ensure these new developments include affordable units.
  • Focusing on preserving affordable housing through anti-displacement programming, establishing the Legacy Resident Retention Program (LRRP). This program prevents the displacement of legacy residents in BeltLine neighborhoods by providing financial assistance to cover property tax increases for qualifying homeowners financially burdened by significant property tax increases.
  • Offering Home Empowerment Workshops to help people with affordable tools and tactics to stay in their homes.
  • Acquiring parcels of land in order to control development in support of housing and commercial affordability.
  • Updating master plans and working with the City to include affordability in zoning policies.

How does the Atlanta BeltLine stay on track towards its goal?

Atlanta BeltLine, Inc. (ABI) has a goal of 300 affordable units annually. By working with our housing partners, ABI is on track to meet its goal. The strategies to meet this goal are outlined in the question above.

The Atlanta BeltLine project and programs were always anticipated to be executed in concert with many public, private, and not-for-profit partners. We work with powerful stakeholders and partners across the city – such as Invest Atlanta, Atlanta Housing Authority, Georgia Department of Community Affairs, City’s Department of Planning, and the development community. ABI itself is not a housing agency.

How does ABI define affordability?

ABI’s goal is to create and preserve:

ABI must also work closely with State and City agencies and Atlanta Housing to ensure a mix of affordable housing to residents earning up to 60% of the median income.


* Notes on AMI:

  • In 2020, the median income for a family of 4 is $96,400 per year.
  • That means that families earning 60% of median income earn $57,840 per year.
  • A family working two full-time jobs at minimum wage ($7.25 / hour) earns $30,160 per year.

How can I live on the Atlanta BeltLine?

How can I stay in my home on the Atlanta BeltLine?

The Atlanta BeltLine provides a number of options through resident resources listed here. The Legacy Resident Retention Program (LRRP) provides financial assistance to cover property tax increases for qualifying homeowners financially burdened by significant property tax increases. Home Empowerment Workshops help people with affordable tools and tactics to stay in their homes.