The search for housing in Eagle County is a source of frustration for our employees. Our workforce contends with wages that are below the weekly average and a critical shortage of accessible and affordable housing. This predicament stems from market competition with second homeowners, investment buyers, and a retiring workforce. As a result, we witness employees commuting from beyond county lines, experiencing overcrowded living conditions, or even leaving the community altogether.

Housing located near workplaces not only fosters a sense of belonging and community but also ensures stability for school-going children and employers, contributes to the economy year-round, reduces commute times, and boosts volunteerism. The escalating cost of housing threatens to drive these skilled professionals away, risking the loss of the unique character that defines our beloved community.

Our workforce is notably talented, with over 47% of Eagle County residents holding a bachelor’s degree or higher, exceeding state and national averages by 10% and 18.2%, respectively. Additionally, our community is healthy and active, showcasing higher rates of physical activity, lower obesity rates, and fewer smokers compared to both state and national averages. This data underscores the value of our workforce and the critical need to address housing challenges to preserve the vitality of the Vail Valley Partnership and our community as a whole.