Concerns Mount as Lahaina Residents Fear Gentrification Threatens Local Control

The residents of Lahaina, Maui, are concerned that the rebuilding of their town after a devastating wildfire will result in homes being targeted at wealthy outsiders, exacerbating the chronic housing shortage and displacing local residents. The influx of second-home buyers and affluent transplants has already been pushing out Native Hawaiians and local-born residents who can no longer afford to live in their homeland. The median price of a home in Maui is $1.2 million, making it unaffordable for most wage earners. While some residents may receive insurance or government aid to rebuild, the process could take years and may not be enough to cover rent or purchase alternate properties. The governor has expressed a commitment to ensuring that Lahaina remains affordable for locals after rebuilding.