New 15-storey development to support LGBTQ+ seniors in San Francisco

San Francisco officials have confirmed plans for a 15-storey affordable housing development at 1939 Market Street, designed specifically for LGBTQ+ seniors. The initiative comes as the city faces a demographic shift, with nearly one in three residents expected to be aged 60 or over by 2030 - a figure that exceeds the California state average. Many older LGBTQ+ residents struggle with limited incomes, rising living costs and social isolation, making the need for inclusive housing urgent.

The tower will provide 187 studio and one-bedroom apartments for seniors aged 62 and above, including some low-income veterans. Rents will be set according to 15–60% of San Francisco’s Area Median Income, ensuring accessibility for those on very low to extremely low incomes. Located at Market and Duboce, the building’s design will feature communal spaces and inclusive visual elements, such as rainbow colours, to foster a sense of belonging and counter isolation.

Mercy Housing California, in partnership with LGBTQ+ senior care provider Openhouse, will lead the development. The project has secured approximately $47.6 million in funding from the California Strategic Growth Council through the Affordable Housing and Sustainable Communities programme, reflecting its commitment to sustainability and transit-oriented living.

Expected to be the largest LGBTQ+ senior-focused housing campus in the United States, the new tower will join two existing buildings at 55 and 95 Laguna Street, creating a “mini-campus” with nearly 300 affordable residences and dedicated programme space. Openhouse will provide supportive services, including health and wellness initiatives, social groups and memory care.

The city purchased the site in 2020 for around $12 million. Construction is anticipated to begin in late 2026 or early 2027, with completion scheduled for early 2029. Mayor Daniel Lurie hailed the project as a “significant step forward,” ensuring LGBTQ+ elders can remain in the community they helped to shape.

He said: "We are excited that this project at 1939 Market has officially received funding and is moving forward. This is an important step for LGBTQ seniors who deserve stability, dignity, and access to housing in the city they call home."

Morey Riordan, Executive Director of Openhouse, added: "It’s rare - but so important - to have good news to share in these difficult times. With this new, truly affordable housing project, we are one step closer to a world in which LGBTQ+ older adults can remain part of the communities they helped to shape."