3 in 4 Long Islanders View Young People Leaving as a Very or Extremely Serious Problem

From Long Island Index 2010 Survey Findings

Almost every Long Islander knows a 20-something who grew up here and never returned. Many of us also know people who are still living with their parents, trying to save for a place of their own, but struggling to do so. Peoples’ concerns are well founded. The US census has documented that the region’s population of 25-34 year olds has dropped 15% in recent years. In contrast, the U.S. continues to gain people in this age group.

Why are young people leaving?

The reason is clear. Young people making average salaries can’t afford 97% of the homes here. Put another way, just 3 in 100 homes are affordable to an average young adult on Long Island.