Rent Affordability Challenges Affect More U.S. Households

Why it matters locally: Given Hawaii's exceptionally high cost of living and housing prices, these national trends of increasing rent affordability challenges are particularly pertinent to households across the islands. The study's finding that middle-income households are increasingly impacted reflects an existing struggle for many residents in Hawaii to secure affordable housing.

WASHINGTON – A growing number of U.S. renters, including those with middle incomes, encountered difficulties paying their housing costs in 2023, according to new research. Analysts found that one in five renters nationwide struggled to pay for their housing on time and in full during the past year. The Urban Institute conducted the research. Their findings indicate that housing affordability challenges now extend beyond lower-income households. The data shows these financial pressures are increasingly impacting individuals and families in higher income brackets. The study identified the proportion of renters experiencing these payment difficulties. This metric suggests a broadening scope of housing insecurity across the country. Researchers observed this trend as part of ongoing analyses into U.S. housing markets.