After a pandemic-induced slowdown, US rental demand surged in 2021, reducing vacancy rates and driving up rents. Higher-income renters, unable to buy homes due to high prices and low inventory, have increased competition for rental units, exacerbating affordability issues for lower-income households. The report underscores the persistent financial struggles of lower-income renters, particularly among Black and Hispanic communities, who face higher rates of rent arrears and housing instability. It also emphasizes the need for a permanent, fully funded housing safety net to address these challenges and protect against climate change impacts. Lastly, the report calls for increased investment in affordable housing and regulatory reforms to expand rental supply and improve housing equity.

https://furmancenter.org/research/publication/the-case-against-restrictive-land-use-and-zoning