Albuquerque's housing affordability challenges are real—but Ordinance O-26-05 targets a problem that data shows is not driving the crisis. GAAR opposes this ordinance and continues advocating for evidence-based solutions that expand housing supply.

The Facts

STRs represent less than 1% of Albuquerque's 240,000+ housing units (approximately 2,400 total STRs). Independent, peer-reviewed studies consistently show STRs do not drive housing shortages or affordability challenges. Most STRs are in communities whose values far exceed affordable housing thresholds based on local median income.

Research shows restricting STRs causes tourism and tax revenue reductions, significant job losses in STR management and servicing industries, and no meaningful change to housing availability or affordability.

What Actually Drives the Crisis

Affordability and availability challenges stem from systemic underbuilding, overregulation, rising construction and labor costs, interest rates, and broader economic pressures. Only new construction can meaningfully address supply shortages.

An estimated 91% of all STRs nationwide are owned by individuals, families, or small LLCs as second homes—not corporate investors. Many owners are local or regional, use their properties personally, and rent short-term to offset rising ownership costs.

The 330-Foot Separation Requirement Problem

The proposed separation requirement creates new problems without delivering benefits. No data shows it will return units to long-term housing. Instead, it will create nonconforming properties, discourage permit compliance, and increase enforcement burdens—penalizing responsible owners while doing little to address nuisance complaints.

Bottom Line

Ordinance O-26-05 will not increase housing supply or improve affordability. It will reduce flexibility, compliance, and economic activity. GAAR opposes O-26-05 and continues advocating for policies that encourage new housing construction, protect responsible property owners, and address affordability at its root through data-driven solutions.

Call to Action

How to Participate in the City of Albuquerque City Council Meeting tonight on Monday, February 2nd at 5:00 pm 

1. Sign up to provide public comment in-person or via ZOOM by 4:00 pm on Monday, February 2nd
   Sign up Link: https://www.cabq.gov/feb-2-2026-comment 
   Participants may sign up for a maximum of 2 agenda items per meeting.
   If you sign up to speak on a specific agenda item, your name will be called when that item is heard.
   Participants must sign up for public comment with the Zoom username or phone number that they will use to enter the Zoom meeting so that they can be identified 
   Persons who do not provide this information will not be allowed into the meeting, but may still view the meeting via YouTube live or in Zoom Webinar 
2. Attend In Person 
   Albuquerque/Bernalillo County Government Center
   Vincent E. Griego Chambers
   1 Civic Plaza NW, Albuquerque, NM 87102
3. Log in to Zoom 
   https://cabq.zoom.us/j/89130267588
   Webinar ID: 89130267588
   (669) 444-9171 // 89130267588
4. View on YouTube 
   https://youtube.com/live/0BN-LrTuXCM?feature=share