Santa Clara wrapped up 2025 with an impressive 2,768 new residential units, far surpassing the 155 completions from 2024 and earlier years. Most of these additions came as apartments and condominiums, with a small portion from accessory dwelling units and single-family homes. This wave of development marks a high point for the city, reflecting years of preparation that now deliver much-needed options amid the Bay Area's tight inventory.
The completions stem from projects that locked in financing before interest rates rose sharply. City officials credit efficient planning processes for keeping momentum strong, including detailed neighborhood plans that align with property owners' visions. These efforts streamlined approvals and construction, setting Santa Clara apart in a region where such progress often stalls.
Key activity centered in the Tasman East neighborhood, now known as The Clara District, where a 2018 specific plan transformed industrial land into a high-density, transit-focused area. Projects like AVE Santa Clara, Mainline North, and Ellore contributed significantly, alongside 10 multifamily developments citywide. Two of those focused entirely on affordable housing, supported by builders such as SummerHill, Ensemble, Greystar, and USA Properties.
Looking to 2026, officials anticipate a slower pace as the market absorbs recent additions and navigates past financing challenges. Still, ongoing demand signals steady opportunities ahead, reinforcing Santa Clara's role in addressing regional housing needs.
Source: SVBJ
