Cornwall's housing crisis has forced a growing number of young people into vans, as the county's soaring property prices – driven by second homes and short-term lets – make traditional housing unaffordable for many.
The average house price in Cornwall now stands at around £350,000, significantly higher than the UK national average, according to Rightmove data from May 2024. This has created a significant barrier for first-time buyers and those on local wages, making homeownership an increasingly distant prospect.
For young people in particular, who often face lower-paying jobs in tourism and hospitality sectors, living in a van can be a practical – if difficult – alternative to leaving the county. While some have embraced the nomadic lifestyle, many report struggles with basic necessities and constant searches for suitable overnight parking spots, highlighting the lack of dedicated infrastructure or support.
The housing crisis is not only affecting individual residents but also risks creating a demographic imbalance in Cornwall's communities. As younger workers and families are priced out, local services may suffer, leading to a loss of community cohesion. Local authorities and housing organisations have been grappling with the issue, exploring measures such as increased council tax on second homes and stricter planning regulations for holiday lets – though their impact remains uncertain.
Cornwall's situation mirrors similar challenges faced by other UK tourist hotspots, where the balance between visitor economies and affordable housing for local communities has become increasingly strained. The 'van life' phenomenon underscores the need for long-term, sustainable housing policies that address the unique pressures on regions like Cornwall.
For existing homeowners in Cornwall, rising property values may boost their equity, but also means their children and grandchildren may struggle to afford living in the area. Landlords often see higher returns from short-term lets than long-term residential rentals, further exacerbating the crisis.