Nantuckets workers are living on the margins

Nantucket's housing crisis intensifies as 65% of its homes are occupied by seasonal residents, leaving little for local workers. The median home price reaches $2. 5 million, exacerbating the affordability issue for essential workers such as teachers and healthcare staff. Town leaders warn that without significant changes, the island may soon be entirely owned by seasonal homeowners. Initiatives like the Lease to Locals program aim to convert short-term rentals into year-round residences but have faced slow implementation and community resistance.

Brooke Mohr, a member of the Select Board, emphasizes the common refrain of local opposition to affordable housing. Additionally, short-term rentals are critical for the local economy, complicating the push for more affordable options. Marjani Williams, a new local worker, describes the challenges of finding stable housing despite earning a decent salary. The local government must address this disparity to ensure a viable community for its workforce.