WILMINGTON -- More than a million people in our state are struggling with finding an affordable place to call home. That’s according to the N.C. Housing Coalition.

In Wilmington, community leaders sat down with the housing coalition to discuss the challenges the Cape Fear region is facing. Officials said positive strides are being made like a new Habitat for Humanity subdivision that’s slated for construction this year.

However, more still needs to be done. The Cape Fear Housing Coalition believes a land use incentive grant would make a big impact to coastal residents.

“Some kind of incentive to entice and bring more for-profit developers to the table to help solve this problem. I don't think Wilmington needs to see more luxury apartments,” said Paul D’Angelo.

In New Hanover County alone, about 40 percent of people are cost burdened, meaning they pay 30 percent or more of their monthly income for housing.