The situation is so bad in some areas that key workers - such as teachers and social workers - are finding it difficult to afford a home.

In Devon, the average price is now �138,000. In Cornwall, it is �128,000.

Many councils across the region say affordable housing is now their top priority.

We're now finding people you wouldn't normally expect to have difficulties [buying houses], like junior and senior professionals

Richard Yonge, South Hams District Council

Teacher Sarah Butler is among the professionals affected.

She works at Fowey Primary School in Cornwall.

But with the average house in the town selling for �150,000, she cannot afford to live there.

She has bought a house elsewhere, but only with help from relations.

She said: "I couldn't even consider living in Fowey. The prices are cheaper outside the area.

"But they are rapidly rising and I only got in by the skin of my teeth."

Councils are recognising that prices are a problem

There are also concerns emergency services could be affected.

Rob Husband is a lifeboatman for the RNLI in Fowey.

He is on emergency call 24-hours a day and has to live close by. But he has to rent.

He said: "We've got a few people coming up to retirement age and need young people to replace them.

"But if they can't afford to buy homes, it might affect the lifeboat."

Many councils say they recognise that it is a problem.

Professional problems

Richard Yonge, the leader of South Hams District Council in Devon, said: "It's particularly difficult for people at the bottom end of the market.

"But we're now finding people you wouldn't normally expect to have difficulties, like junior and senior professionals."

Figures from the Land Registry show the cost of property is still rising across the region.

In Devon, the average house now costs more than the national average of �136,881.