Stay Work Play New Hampshire has announced its 2025 Policy Positions, with housing affordability leading the charge as the organization’s most critical legislative focus. As young people continue to grapple with skyrocketing housing costs, limited social opportunities, and the rising cost of living, Stay Work Play is committed to advancing practical, bipartisan solutions to these challenges. The newly released policy report outlines key legislative positions that exemplify the organization’s commitment to making the state more attractive and accessible for young talent.

"If we’re serious about keeping young people in New Hampshire, we need to be real about what they’re up against," said Corinne Benfield, Executive Director of Stay Work Play NH. "Housing is hands-down the biggest issue—but it’s not just about putting roofs over heads. It’s about building vibrant, welcoming communities where young people can see a future for themselves—where they can afford to put down roots, build careers, and start families like the generations before them. Our 2025 Policy Priorities reflect that vision by focusing on housing, community vitality, and affordability. We’re committed to advocating for real solutions that make New Hampshire a place where young people want to stay, work, and play."

This year’s policy agenda represents forward momentum as Stay Work Play leverages data from its 2023 Quality of Life Index Survey to shape advocacy efforts. The survey revealed that the lack of affordable housing, limited social opportunities, and a rising cost of living remain the primary reasons young people consider leaving New Hampshire. Recent data from the New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority shows that median rental prices have surged, while property values continue to climb, pushing many potential young homeowners out of the market. Coupled with wages that haven’t kept pace with inflation, these realities make the state less accessible for the young talent New Hampshire desperately needs. With rising competition from neighboring states, tackling this reality is more urgent now than ever.

To combat these challenges, Stay Work Play is amplifying its advocacy in partnership with the New Hampshire Housing Supply Coalition—a collaboration of key stakeholders, including the Business & Industry Association (BIA), NH Home Builders, Housing Action NH, and NH Association of Realtors. By working together to increase housing supply and affordability, the coalition aims to stabilize and secure the state’s economic future.

"The voices of young people are essential to housing reform in New Hampshire, and having Stay Work Play as a partner in the NH Housing Supply Coalition ensures those perspectives are heard," said Mike Skelton, CEO of BIA NH and founding member of the NH Housing Supply Coalition. "Our coalition is committed to finding real solutions that support the young talent needed to move New Hampshire’s economy and communities forward."

In addition to housing, Stay Work Play’s policy portfolio also focuses on making communities more vibrant and inclusive. Legislative priorities include supporting social districts, modernizing liquor laws to keep New Hampshire on trend with neighboring states, and addressing childcare challenges to support working families and industry professionals.

"We know that housing isn’t the only piece of the puzzle," continued Corinne Benfield, Executive Director of Stay Work Play NH. "Young people want more than just a place to live—they want to be part of vibrant, connected communities where they can build meaningful careers, put down roots, and see a future for themselves in New Hampshire."

Stay Work Play is confident that by amplifying the voices of young people and fostering bipartisan collaboration, New Hampshire will secure a vibrant and resilient future. The organization is committed to ensuring that the next generation plays a central role in shaping the state's economic success, driving progress that benefits all.