Our Businesses Rely on Our Community as Our Community Relies on Our Businesses

The Attainable Housing crisis we face in Leelanau, Benzie, and surrounding counties is real. It’s here, and it’s now. This has already started to affect our businesses and the services our residents have come to expect. Businesses (when they can attract workers) must pay more for them to commute to our area, the cost of which is, in turn, passed along to the community.

We have talked about people starting full-time careers and families (Police, School Teachers, First Responders, Tradesmen, Veterans, etc.) who cannot afford the housing prices, so we lose local families and workers, who are the backbone of any community.

Homeownership Dreams Are Fading

Homeownership dreams are fading for many in lower Northwest Michigan, consisting of teachers, healthcare workers, first responders, tradesmen, and families, plus many others who work in our local restaurants and businesses. As scenic beauty and recreational opportunities draw new residents and tourists, housing prices are skyrocketing, leaving local families and essential workers struggling to find affordable places to live.

Consider this from our local business owners:

“As property values rise and housing continues to be scarce, more and more local businesses will not be able to attract and keep median-type income workers and will be forced to curb hours of operation, operate seasonally, or close their doors for good.” – Brad Anderson – Anderson IGA

“Housing is the principal economic challenge for young people. The land and building costs are out of control. Creative solutions are needed that protect the character of the villages, communities, and countryside and provide upward ‘starting points’ for hardworking young families.” – Bob Biggs – Biggs Construction

The Cost of Housing Over Time

Slide Courtesy of Jim Tischler – Director of Michigan State Land Bank, Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity

As this chart demonstrates, the current cost of housing is unaffordable to many local workers and is projected to increase at a greater rate than personal income.

For example, an elementary school teacher in Leelanau County makes approximately $62,650 annually with a calculated maximum housing budget of $1,541/month. Yet, the median cost to own a home in Leelanau County is $4,961/mo.

As Jon Stimson of Homestretch explains, “This crisis is not just about finding a roof overhead; it’s about preserving the fabric of our communities and ensuring a sustainable future for those who call this region home.

The Consequences of the Housing Crisis Are Real and Growing

Without immediate action, the very fabric of gateway communities could be irreversibly altered. Addressing this issue requires collaboration between policymakers, local businesses, and residents to develop sustainable housing solutions that allow essential workers and our community builders to live within the communities they serve.

At SBGC, we are committed to advocating for and implementing solutions that ensure attainable housing for our workforce. We urge community members to share this message and engage in discussions that lead to meaningful change.

How Can You Help?

  1. Start by spreading the word—talk to your friends, neighbors, business owners, and local officials. Share this newsletter with organizations you’re connected to, like your Chamber of Commerce, clubs, or neighborhood groups.
  2. Do you own land that might be suitable for conservation or community use? We’d love to hear from you—whether you’re open to donating or selling it to a local 501(c)(3), your contribution could make a lasting impact.
  1. If you haven’t already, subscribe to our newsletter to stay in the loop—there’s a sign-up link right at the bottom of our homepage. And don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for regular updates and stories from the region.
  1. Looking for hands-on ways to get involved? Consider making a donation or volunteering with us. Every bit of support helps us protect and enhance the gateway communities of the SleepingBear Dunes.

Only together can we make a real difference.