Housing price is only one side of the problem. Median income is the other and the ratio between the two represents the Housing Affordability Index.

In Vermont, home prices have shot up to the extent that we are now dead last in the nation for affordability. 84% of Vermont families cannot afford a median price home. This, plus, rising interest rates and inflation have created a situation where the only people who can afford to buy a home are those wealthy enough to pay cash. Young families and retirees are leaving in droves.

In a while, the entire state will be surrounded by a 24-foot fence esthetically pleasing gate with security guardhouses at each entry point to keep out the riff raf.

The joke used to be that when entering Vermont, tourists were greeted with the phrase "Welcome to Vermont. Now go home!" Now it's more like "Vermont. Accredited investors only."