Housing Permitting Soars Under McKee Administration, Increasing 150% Since 2021

Published on Thursday, April 16, 2026

PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Governor Dan McKee and Secretary of Housing Deborah Goddard today announced significant progress in expanding housing production, with new data showing an increase in residential building permits issued in 2025, and a 150% increase since Governor McKee took office in 2021. 
 
As outlined in the 2025 Rhode Island Integrated Housing Report, a total of 3,778 permits were issued for new residential units last year, which is an increase of more than 1,100 permits compared to 2024 and the highest recorded in the state since the 1980s.

“From day one, our administration has been focused on increasing housing supply and making Rhode Island more affordable,” said Governor Dan McKee. “These numbers show consistent, meaningful progress year after year. We're seeing the results of our efforts with the General Assembly to work with cities and towns, remove barriers to development, and make historic investments in housing.”

The latest figures underscore a pattern of growth in housing production under the McKee Administration:

• 2025: 3,778 permits issued
• 2024: 2,655 permits issued
• 2023: 2,453 permits issued
• 2022: 1,436 permits issued
• 2021: 1,495 permits issued

Since 2021, the number of units permitted annually has more than doubled, reflecting the impact of sustained investments, policy reforms, and strong collaboration with municipalities across the state.

In addition to permit numbers increasing, in 2025, municipalities issued 2,162 certificates of occupancy (COs), representing new residential units that are fully completed and ready for occupancy.

COs mark the final step in the housing production process, while building permits reflect earlier approvals to begin construction. Combined, these data points signal positive progress for future housing activity across Rhode Island.

“The upward trend in permitting is a direct result of a coordinated, long-term strategy,” said Secretary of Housing Deborah Goddard. “Under Governor McKee’s leadership, we’ve built strong partnerships with municipalities and developers to move projects forward. While we know there is more work to do, this consistent growth shows we are making real progress toward expanding housing opportunities for Rhode Islanders.”

Key initiatives such as targeted funding programs, efforts to remove barriers to production, improved partnerships, and expanded technical support for municipalities, have helped drive this progress and will continue to accelerate housing development and unlock new opportunities for Rhode Islanders statewide. 
 
The State will continue advancing policies and investments designed to sustain this momentum, increase affordability, and ensure every Rhode Islander has access to safe, affordable housing.