By American Planning Association
January 28, 2026
The Trend Report for Planners is a cornerstone of APA’s foresight practice, which focuses on understanding external drivers of change and preparing for multiple possible futures. Rather than predicting outcomes, foresight equips planners to think strategically, reduce ris,k and act with intention in uncertain conditions.
The trends are identified by the APA Trend Scouting Foresight Community, a diverse group of more than 50 thought leaders ranging from executives to students, including planners, anthropologists, sociologists, psychologists, public health professionals, architects, engineers, and others to identify trends and signals.
The 2026 Trend Report for Planners is produced in partnership with the Lincoln Institute of Land Policy.
