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NEW HAMPSHIRE prides itself on strong communities, an independent spirit, and a high quality of life that has long attracted families and businesses. But beneath that cherished identity, a quiet crisis is growing: the rising cost of housing is closing the door to opportunity for many — especially young people.

A recent op-ed in [the Union Leader] suggested New Hampshire’s housing crisis is a “false premise,” blaming shifting generational attitudes or a supposed lack of motivation among young people for the challenges they face. Let’s be clear: the housing supply and affordability crisis in our state is very real — especially for young people. It threatens our future prosperity and demands bold, thoughtful action.

At Stay Work Play NH, our mission is to attract and retain young people in the Granite State. When young people can build careers, start families, and put down roots here, the whole state benefits. This isn’t just about one generation — it’s about shared prosperity. A thriving state depends on opportunities for all.

Let’s take a look at the true data. The math just isn’t adding up for young people here. Their purchasing power is shrinking: Generation Z has about 72% less purchasing power than Baby Boomers did at the same age. While inflation-adjusted incomes have risen modestly, the Consumer Price Index has skyrocketed by 586% since 1973. Wages haven’t kept up. Housing affordability is no longer just a talking point, it’s a crisis. Median home prices have jumped 1,045% since 1973, and 63% since mid-2020 alone. Today, the average three-bedroom, single-family home sells for $528,000, with monthly costs nearing $4,000. Meanwhile, rent for a two-bedroom apartment averages $1,833, a 36% hike since 2019. It’s no wonder that only 15% of first-time homebuyers are younger than 31. Adding to the challenge, college tuition has soared, public tuition is up 177% and private tuition is up 158% since the 1970s. Young people are entering the workforce with significant debt, making it harder to afford housing or build financial stability. These are systemic barriers.

New Hampshire must evolve to meet the needs of its people. That’s why zoning and land-use reforms, like those considered in the State House this session, are so important. We understand the importance of maintaining local control, but it must be balanced with the urgent need to expand access to housing in the state. Local regulations, while well-intentioned, can unintentionally block growth and affordability. That’s why Stay Work Play and our partners in the N.H. Housing Supply Coalition support reforms like the Starter Homes Act (SB 84), which aims to remove outdated zoning barriers that prevent the development of the “missing middle” of affordable starter homes that help young families put down firm roots.

These reforms are about unlocking the potential for smart, sensible development that reflects New Hampshire’s unique communities and helps us remain competitive, relevant, and livable. Other states are implementing similar reforms with success. We can, too. And true to the Granite State ethos, we can do it through collaboration, pragmatism, and respect for different viewpoints.

When we create conditions for young people to succeed, everyone benefits. While it’s true that the state issued permits for — though did not necessarily build — just shy of 20,000 units since 2020, the same dataset shows we would have needed nearly 33,000 permits to meet demand. That gap matters. Population and economic activity aren’t static. As both continue to grow, and housing production struggles to keep pace, the number of homes we need keeps snowballing. We’re falling further behind each year, and Stay Work Play cares about changing this trend.

Enabling construction of more homes can set off a chain of positive change. Older residents can downsize and age in place without leaving the communities they love. Essential workers — LNAs, teachers, and first responders — can afford to live where they work. Families can stay close, supporting one another across generations. Local businesses and civic life thrive with more engaged residents and increased disposable income. It’s not just a housing issue. It’s about economic stability, health, and a sense of belonging for all.

If we want our state to grow, adapt, and lead in the decades ahead, we must ensure young people see a future here. That includes housing they can afford, opportunities that excite them, and communities that welcome them. At Stay Work Play, we’re committed to working with partners to make that vision a reality — we can’t do it alone. We need lawmakers and leaders to step forward and acknowledge our state’s housing crisis isn’t a “false premise” or “trojan horse.” Let’s leave behind the finger-pointing and generational blame. Let’s lead with empathy, data, and solutions. We owe it to the next generation to leave our state better than we found it and a place where every generation can build a life, a future, and a legacy.

Corinne Benfield is executive director of Stay Work Play NH. She lives in Manchester.