Habitat for Humanity Plans 14 Affordable Townhomes in South Gate, Pending City Approval

On a quiet corner of South Gate’s Long Beach Boulevard, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles has spotted a vacant lot at 9019 Long Beach Boulevard that could soon host 14 new homes. The proposal would bring a row of three‑story townhomes, each ranging from 1,000 to 1,372 square feet and featuring a two‑car garage.

The development is part of Habitat’s broader strategy to build for‑sale homes in Southern Los Angeles County. According to an environmental study cited by Urbanize Los Angeles, the units would be sold to qualifying low‑income buyers, offering a pathway to homeownership that aligns with the organization’s mission to provide affordable housing.

City approval is required on two fronts. First, the City of South Gate must issue an environmental clearance confirming the site meets local and state environmental standards. Second, zoning changes would allow reduced setbacks and taller perimeter fences than currently permitted in the area’s overlay zone. The City’s planning department has indicated that both approvals are routine for projects of this type, but the timeline will depend on the review process.

If the City grants the go‑ahead, Habitat plans to begin construction in the summer of 2026. The developer estimates that the 14 townhomes will be completed by April 2029, after which they will be marketed to low‑income buyers who meet the organization’s income eligibility criteria.

Habitat’s South Gate proposal follows a series of similar projects in nearby communities. In Long Beach, the organization is pursuing the Erin Grove development, which would add 20 low‑income townhomes and 16 market‑rate townhomes in three‑story buildings. The Long Beach projects feature two‑ and three‑bedroom layouts ranging from 1,215 to 1,550 square feet. Other Long Beach sites include 1510 Palmer Court, where Habitat is building eight townhouses, and 5571 Orange Avenue, slated for completion this year with eight townhouses offering three‑ and four‑bedroom floor plans between 1,250 and 1,380 square feet.

Beyond the Los Angeles region, Habitat is advancing projects in Arcadia and Santa Fe Springs. In Arcadia, Brookfield Residential’s 277‑unit Magnolia development includes 14 affordable homes for which Habitat is providing underwriting services. In Santa Fe Springs, the organization plans an 18‑townhouse project later this year.

The new South Gate project adds to Los Angeles County’s reputation as a national leader in building affordable housing. RentCafe data shows that between 2020 and 2024, Los Angeles ranked among the top ten metros for constructing income‑restricted residences.

The City of South Gate, which had a population of 92,726 in 2020, has a long history of community development. The proposed townhomes would provide a new option for families seeking affordable ownership in a city that has been recognized for its civic engagement, including receiving the All‑America City Award in 1990.

Habitat for Humanity’s model relies on volunteer labor and sweat equity from future homeowners, with paid contractors handling specialized tasks. The organization does not profit from the sale of homes; instead, proceeds are reinvested into future projects.

The outcome of the South Gate approval process will determine whether the 14 townhomes can move forward. The City’s planning department will review the environmental study and zoning request in the coming weeks. If approved, Habitat will begin construction in the summer of 2026, with a projected completion date of April 2029.

The project represents a continued effort by Habitat for Humanity to expand affordable, for‑sale housing options across Southern California, addressing the region’s persistent housing affordability challenges.