The Murphy Administration has surpassed a major housing milestone, approving more than 200,000 building permits for residential units across New Jersey since 2018, according to the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA).
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State officials announced that as of September 2025, 204,790 housing permits have been authorized statewide — a total that exceeds the combined output of the four previous gubernatorial administrations. Officials expect the number to climb further once final-quarter data for 2025 is released.
“When we came into office in 2018, we promised to cut through red tape and tackle the housing crisis head-on,” said Governor Murphy. “We are incredibly proud to announce that we’ve delivered on our promise and have exceeded 200,000 approved housing permits – more permits than any of the past four gubernatorial administrations. Through our Department of Community Affairs, we are cementing our legacy of expanding housing supply and building a stronger, fairer state for the people of New Jersey.”
The pace of housing approvals under the current administration significantly outpaces previous administrations. Data shows that 104,480 housing units were authorized during the McGreevey Administration, 38,228 during the Codey Administration, 81,997 under Corzine, and 146,128 during the Christie Administration.
DCA Commissioner Jacquelyn A. Suárez credited sustained policy reforms and operational improvements for the surge in permit activity.
“Whether its advancing affordable housing initiatives, providing proper staffing, or streamlining government functions through technology, the Murphy Administration has shown time and again – through its actions – how committed it is to building housing for New Jerseyans,” Suárez said. “Simply put, this Administration is doing more in the housing space than any of its predecessors this century. The proof is in the numbers.”
The permit totals are based on monthly reports submitted to DCA by local construction officials statewide. These reports track dwelling units authorized for construction and are published in the New Jersey Construction Reporter Online Magazine, along with annual summaries on DCA’s website.
Officials noted that the total number of permits under the Murphy Administration is likely even higher, as Jersey City, the state’s second-most populous municipality, has not submitted its data to DCA.
State officials identified several key initiatives contributing to the increase in housing permits:
Building on those reforms, DCA launched NJHOMES in 2025, an initiative designed to help municipalities develop affordable housing plans that align with local needs while contributing to statewide housing goals.
State officials emphasized that the administration’s approach balances increased housing production with municipal support, ensuring local governments have the tools, staffing, and guidance needed to manage growth effectively.
Beyond housing, DCA oversees programs covering local government services, building and fire safety, community planning, disaster recovery, rental and utility assistance, information privacy, and historic preservation.
Officials said the milestone reflects the administration’s broader effort to keep New Jersey competitive, resilient, and responsive to the housing needs of both current residents and future generations.
Originally reported by Department Of Community Affairs, New Jersey/
