Economists warn that residents who survived the wildfire in Lahaina, Hawaii may not be able to afford to live there after it is rebuilt unless zoning laws are changed. Soaring housing prices have already forced many Native Hawaiians and long-time residents to leave the islands. The wildfire destroyed 86% of residential buildings in Lahaina, leaving survivors displaced. The report suggests that market prices for new housing are likely to far exceed the already high prices that existed before the fire, making it difficult for locals to afford to return. Rebuilding is not expected to start before 2025.

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