Maui Wildfire Evacuees Face Housing Crisis as Tourists Return

Housing shortage exacerbated by the devastation of the deadliest U.S. wildfire in Lahaina leaves 6,900 residents still in short-term lodgings two months later, with FEMA preparing to construct up to 500 modular units as a temporary solution.

The return of tourists and a pre-existing housing shortage has exacerbated the housing crisis for residents displaced by the deadliest U.S. wildfire in Lahaina, which destroyed around 3,000 homes and apartments.
FEMA has housed about 8,000 displaced residents in hotels, vacation rentals and other short-term lodgings, with 6,900 still in short-term lodgings two months after the fire.
Due to Maui's isolated location, mobile homes used as temporary shelter in other U.S. states are not a feasible solution to the housing crisis, leading to residents leaning heavily on the hospitality sector, which is now beginning to cater to returning tourists.
FEMA has increased rental assistance for evacuees by 75%, making displaced Lahaina residents eligible for nearly $3,000 for a one-bedroom unit, in response to the gap between renter affordability and landlord asking prices.
As a potential long-term solution, FEMA is preparing to construct up to 500 modular units using prefabricated materials or 3D printing, with four sites identified three in Lahaina and one in central Maui.