A new online mortgage advisor study found that Tampa renters now spend 42% of their income on rent, more than is recommended to maintain a healthy financial situation.
According to an article in Creative Loafing, the Tampa Bay area is the fourth worst city in the U.S. when it comes to changes in renting affordability.
Karla Correa, St. Petersburg Tenants Union organizer, says, “People get these rent hikes, $300, $400 even $500. We’ve been seeing some of the biggest rent increases in the entire country. So, you know, they’re told to either pay up or get out.”
Most renters in Tampa Bay can’t get a place for less than a thousand dollars now.
“We need more protections. We need a statewide eviction moratorium. We need rent control,” says Correa.
In February, people on both sides of the bay protested rent hikes and asked for leaders to declare a state of emergency.
The Tampa City Council passed a “Tenants Bill of Rights.” While it’s a step in the right direction, renters argue, more needs to be done.
Credits
Anchor: Gabe Glassman
Reporter: McKenzie Muskett
Show Editor: Antonio Delucca
Producer: Lauren Siegal
Web editor: Chrisovaladou Pantelis
