When Andrew learned he was to be stationed on Nantucket, he assumed finding affordable housing would be incredibly difficult. But he had no idea just how challenging it would be. After 14 years of service in the United States Coast Guard, he was accustomed to moving around with some ease. He expected the search to be like it was in other places; it’s all about who you know. However, Nantucket proved to be a beast of its own.

“I started my search on the internet, and cold-called a bunch of realtors,” he recalls. “They directed me to Housing Nantucket, and I submitted an application right away. I scoured the classifieds. My only lead was a market-rate basement apartment, which I grabbed immediately. But as I was heading to Nantucket to report for duty, my new landlord called. The current tenant wasn’t leaving, and the deal fell through. It was a brutal blow.”

Inadequate workforce housing has ripple effects in the community, especially when essential service personnel like Andrew are left on the dock, without options. For many workers, travel logistics make off-island commutes impossible. This creates serious staff shortages, and puts public safety at risk.

Andrew had an important job to do on Nantucket, but he had no where to stay. Then he received the call from Housing Nantucket. He met the qualification requirements and was offered a studio apartment.

Housing Nantucket accepts applications on a rolling basis. Rental units are primarily leased at below-market rates to residents earning between 60-80% of the Area Median Income. Housing Nantucket owns and manages 33 rental homes at various island sites, with two more to be completed soon. Permanent deed restrictions ensure that these opportunities are available for future generations.

“Housing Nantucket’s been awesome,” Andrew says. “The apartment is clean and in good condition. Staff is responsive whenever something needs attention. I’ve rented some really bad properties in my day, which increases my gratitude for this opportunity.”

Housing Nantucket’s rental homes meet an important aspect of the island’s diverse housing needs. Your continued support enables us to expand our services. Thank you!