Understanding West Lafayette’s Single-Family Housing Study

Study Overview

West Lafayette has released its first comprehensive look at how single-family homes are being used across the city’s primary residential zones. By comparing rental registrations with homestead exemption claims, this report uncovers who is renting, who is living in their own homes, and where enforcement or policy adjustments may be needed.

Zoning Districts Breakdown

The analysis focuses on three single-family districts: R1 (traditional single-family), R1B (higher-density single-family), and R1U (university-adjacent residential). Altogether, these zones cover 4,431 properties, offering a detailed view of the city’s core housing stock.

Rental Registration Findings

City ordinance requires that every rental property enroll in the official rental program. Of the 4,431 single-family homes:

938 properties (21%) are registered as rentals
3,493 properties (79%) are not registered

Rental registrations cluster most heavily in neighborhoods surrounding Purdue University, tapering off into areas favored by long-term residents and university staff.

Homestead Exemption Findings

Homestead exemptions reduce property taxes for owner-occupants only. The study shows:

3,316 properties (75%) claim homestead exemptions
1,115 properties (25%) do not claim exemptions

Aligning exemption claims with rental registrations ensures that only legitimate homeowners benefit from tax breaks.

Data Discrepancies and Follow-Up

A review of city records revealed two key inconsistencies:

256 homes are neither registered as rentals nor claiming homestead exemptions
105 homes are registered rentals yet still claim homestead exemptions

City officials have already corrected 43 erroneous exemptions and are investigating the remaining 62 properties to uphold compliance and accuracy.

Community Impact and Future Development

Despite a sizable student population, owner-occupied homes account for roughly three-quarters of the single-family market—indicating stability in family neighborhoods. These insights will guide zoning updates, identify areas in need of more rental or owner-occupied housing, and direct where new developments can best serve community needs.