ABSTRACT
This chapter provides an overview of economic and demographic change in rural communities and an evaluation of how these two combined factors influence housing needs. Two case studies provided examples of how rural communities are affected by these changes and how it has influenced their housing strategies and infrastructure. In assessing these heterogeneous housing markets, it is imperative to understand both the macro and micro scales at which housing issues manifest. Innovative partnerships can help spread the burden across several public or private entities allowing for alternative funding strategies as well as a diversity of expertise and public representation. In the case of Bayfield, local gentrification has squeezed many long-term residents. The town seems to be struggling with decisions about how best to guide high-end housing development, particularly condominium development, while neighboring communities evaluate affordable housing strategies. Economic and demographic changes are intrinsically linked in rural housing, with different demographic-economic trajectories demanding different housing solutions.
