Cornwall's housing crisis is pushing a growing number of young people into van life as second homes and short-term holiday lets drive up house prices. The Guardian spoke to several young van dwellers who say their vans offer freedom but also uncertainty, as they struggle to find water, safe parking, and a secure future.
Van Life as a Response to the Housing Market
The phenomenon has been dubbed the 'van life generation', with many young locals choosing to live in converted vehicles to remain in the area they love. According to the Guardian, some have modified their vans with beds, kitchens, and solar panels, spending between £5,000 and £15,000 on conversions. However, they face daily challenges such as finding places to park overnight, accessing water, and dealing with the stigma of being seen as homeless.
Stories from the Road
One 24-year-old surfer, who asked to remain anonymous for safety reasons, told the Guardian: 'It can flip quickly from being idyllic to really stressful. You're constantly thinking about where you're going to park tonight, whether you'll be moved on, and if you can afford diesel to heat the van.' Another young woman, a 22-year-old waitress, said her van gives her independence but she worries about the long term: 'I love Cornwall, but I can't see how I'll ever afford a flat here. The van is my home now, but it's not a solution for everyone.'
Impact of Second Homes and Holiday Lets
Cornwall has one of the highest concentrations of second homes in England, with around 13,000 properties used as holiday lets or second homes, according to local council data. This has pushed average house prices to over £300,000, far beyond the reach of many young people earning minimum wage in tourism and hospitality. The Guardian reports that the number of people living in vans has risen sharply since the pandemic, as remote work and a desire for coastal living have intensified competition for housing.
Community and Support Networks
Despite the difficulties, van dwellers have formed informal networks to share tips on safe parking spots, water refill stations, and cheap mechanics. Some have also started online forums and social media groups to offer support. However, local authorities have been slow to respond, with few official facilities for van dwellers. The council has acknowledged the issue but says it is limited by national housing policy and funding constraints.
Uncertain Future
For many young people, van life is a temporary solution. The Guardian notes that without affordable housing, they face an uncertain future. One 27-year-old carpenter said: 'I've lived in my van for two years. It's given me the chance to save some money, but I'm still nowhere near being able to buy a house. If things don't change, I might have to leave Cornwall.' The housing crisis continues to fuel the van life trend, leaving a generation in limbo.
