Livable
Bainbridge
You are welcome
Bainbridge Island has a housing gap. Too many of the workers, seniors, and families who support daily life here can no longer afford to live here. Livable Bainbridge exists to support practical housing solutions that keep this community strong, connected, and livable for more people.
What is the problem?
Bainbridge Island does not have enough affordable housing for the people who work here and help sustain our community. Our island ranks in the bottom 3% nationally for affordable housing availability, and fewer than 350 of more than 11,000 housing units are considered affordable or income-restricted. That means many of the workers Bainbridge depends on every day are being priced out of the community they serve.
Who is affected?
The housing gap affects workers, seniors, families, employers, and neighbors across Bainbridge Island. The people impacted include grocery clerks, restaurant staff, landscapers, carpenters, optometric technicians, healthcare managers, and others whose work supports everyday life here. It also affects local businesses trying to retain their employees, residents whose adult children want to raise families in the same community, seniors who want to be able to affordably age in place, and anyone who believes Bainbridge should remain a place where working people can belong.
Why does it matter?
This housing gap matters because a sustainable community depends on having space for the people who keep it running. Today, 79% of surveyed workers on Bainbridge say they do not live on the island but would if they could afford to. That affects local businesses, increases turnover, lengthens commutes, and makes it harder for Bainbridge to remain stable, connected, and welcoming across generations. Affordable housing is about protecting the long-term strength of the community.
What can I do?
Start by exploring the facts and understanding what is at stake. Then take the next step: sign up for updates, discuss this issue with friends and family, and support practical housing solutions that help keep Bainbridge livable. This site is here to help you move from concern to action with clear information, local context, and ways to stay involved.