I’ve heard the statement, “People should live where they can afford,” twice recently. It disturbed me enough to write this letter. In that moment, I was shocked and hurt. Now that I have found the words, here is what I would say: It’s not OK to say, “People should live where they can afford.”
This phrase is deeply problematic. It dismisses the systemic issues driving the affordability crisis in Squamish (and the world), perpetuates inequities, and—perhaps most troubling—reveals a lack of empathy for those struggling to secure stable housing.
Housing is a human right, not a privilege reserved for those who can meet ever-rising costs. Suggesting people simply move to “affordable areas” shifts blame onto individuals rather than addressing the systemic factors—like stagnant wages, discriminatory policies, and housing shortages—that create the issues in the first place. It’s not a matter of having a better career or budgeting better; it’s a failure of our systems to ensure safe, affordable housing for everyone.
This phrase fuels gentrification and displacement. Moving to a supposedly affordable area often means leaving behind family, friends, and community support—critical anchors for emotional well-being and economic stability. It overlooks the reality that “affordable” areas are increasingly rare and may lack job opportunities, access to education, and reliable public transit.
Additionally, if “living where you can afford” were truly a solution, it would mean the erosion of our community. The people who fill vital jobs—like teachers, nurses, doctors, grocery workers, and service industry staff—would be unable to live in the places they work. Entire neighbourhoods and cities would become exclusive enclaves for the wealthy, devoid of the diversity and functionality that make them thrive.
At its heart, this statement lacks basic compassion. Housing insecurity is not just an economic issue; it’s a deeply personal and often traumatic experience that may be affecting someone you know. Reducing people’s struggles to a simplistic suggestion, such as live where you can afford, erases their humanity.
Instead of placing the burden on individuals, let’s focus on systemic solutions. This includes learning about and advocating for policies that expand affordable housing, address wage inequality, and invest in transit to better connect people to jobs. Let’s recognize housing as a shared responsibility and work to build a community where everyone, regardless of income, can thrive.
Alanna Gillis
Squamish
