Newcomer’s wealth appears to be impeding friendships

DEAR AMY >> Two years ago, I made the decision to move from a city to a rural area because I knew I would never be able to afford to buy a house in that city.

I can telecommute for work, giving me the ability to make a good salary and live almost anywhere I want.

Since moving, I have made many local friends, many of which can only dream of earning the kind of money I make. That hasn’t stopped me from making friends; I don’t care about a person’s wealth.

This hasn’t been a problem until recently. I have decided to buy a house in the area I moved to. My friends are divided. Many are happy for me, but others now consider me “the problem.” The problem as they see it is when a non-local moves in and is able to afford the ever-increasing cost of rent or real estate.

Since moving here, I understand this issue. I am near a national park and the visitor rates have skyrocketed. Many people come to the area to buy weekend homes or Airbnb rentals, which drive up the prices for locals.

I just want to plan my retirement in an area I love, but in some friends’ minds, that makes me the enemy.

I don’t know how to deal with this. I want to be part of the community and I have been trying. I don’t know how I can fix this with my friends who are starting to see my presence as part of the problem. — Former City Folk

DEAR CITY FOLK >> Yes, this phenomenon is definitely affecting rural communities.

The rise of telecommuting is likely one factor because this means that you can continue to draw a high salary as you live in a beautiful place that unfortunately also has lower wages and fewer professional opportunities.

But your question is really about relationships. You should continue to dive into local friendships. Use your professional expertise to help local organizations. Some people will not be able to overcome their own prejudices. There is nothing you can do about that. Understand their concerns, use your wealth for good, love where you are, and appreciate your privilege — but don’t apologize for it.

If you fall into the expected pattern, within a relatively short period of time you will consider yourself a local. Then it will be your turn to resent newcomers.