American Planning Association (APA) 2025 Trend Report for Planners
Earlier this month, the American Planning Association (APA) released its annual trend report for 2025. The document identifies some of the major themes of 2025 and speculates what planners can expect in the new year. It’s not an exhaustive list; however, it may provide a helpful framework for communities looking ahead to 2026.
And if you’re in a bit of a rush on your way to a New Years party – don’t worry. Here’s a list of the highlights from the report:
Climate mitigation strategies are changing
As communities feel more of the effects of climate change, traditional methods of mitigation, like carbon offsets and corporate climate pledges, are facing criticism. These approaches are generally viewed as ineffective and insufficient for the scale of the problem. The effects are most noticeable at the local level, where communities are struggling to build resilience against growing climate impacts. As old strategies lose support, new legal and regulatory approaches are emerging to address the problem.
Households are changing
The US is experiencing lower birth rates and more diverse household structures. These shifting demographics are highlighting the gap between housing supply and demand. High housing prices are making it harder for younger generations to buy starter homes.
The Rise of AI
Although AI’s growth appears inevitable, it poses a clear environmental paradox: it is promoted as a tool for advancing sustainability yet criticized for the significant energy and water demands of the data centers that support it.
Making Space for Third Places
Before the COVID-19 pandemic forced the closure of public spaces, the number of "third places"—social spaces outside of home and work—was already on the decline. However, some cities are rethinking how public spaces can evolve, from repurposing traditional spaces to creating new ones in the digital world.
Check out the full report online for more information! In the meantime, have a very happy new year!