Flood Insurance Coverage in the Coastal Zone

P>We explore determinants of flood insurance demand in the coastal zone using micro-data for nine Southeastern counties. Overall estimates indicate price inelastic demand, though subsidized policyholders have greater coverage and are more price sensitive. Mortgage borrowers exhibit no greater coverage; only 12 percent in 100-year flood zone indicate flood insurance was required by their lender. Flood insurance demand is increasing in the levels of flood and erosion risk. We find a positive correlation between household income and coverage, but the effect is not monotonic. Community-level erosion hazard mitigation projects influence flood insurance coverage, with beach replenishment acting as a complement.