Southampton's young people say they don't earn enough for a mortgage
New research shows 87% of 18-34 year olds don't earn enough to afford a mortgage
Southampton's young people say they don't earn enough to afford a mortgage, ranking highest across the South-East and South-West counties.
A new report from Barratt found 87% of people aged between 18-34 don't earn enough to afford a mortgage.
We spoke to people in Southampton, with some even saying they'd rather move away to another country.
One university student said: "I've considered going away, moving to Australia, making some money, buying a van and living in a van.
"If I don't have a stable place to bring up a child, I don't think I ever will."
The average age of a first-time buyer is now 33, making it the oldest in two decades.
With an average of £311,034 starter home and £61,090 deposit, nearly a third of people across the South East and South West say not owning a home is significantly holding them back in life, according to the report.
Another resident in Southampton said: "It's still very competitive.
"I mean I've just offered on a house and I definitely put about five grand over the asking price because I lost two before.
"People in a chain bidding on houses have no chance, unless they're willing to bid a lot more."
Southampton City Council have replied, and we've reached out to Hampshire County Council for a response.
Councillor Andy Frampton, Cabinet Member for Housing at Southampton City Council said: “The council recognises the real pressures that young people face in finding affordable housing.
"Rising rents coupled with limited supply have made it especially difficult for those starting out on the journey to own their own home.
"The council is taking action by working with housing associations and developers to increase the supply of affordable homes and ensuring that new developments include genuinely affordable housing.
"Alongside this, the council is raising standards in the private rented sector and investing in homelessness prevention services, so that young people and other residents of Southampton who are struggling can access safe, secure, and sustainable housing.”