PC: Fox 11 Online
GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — Enjoying the comfort of your own living space is getting more expensive.
Studies show being able to afford putting a roof over your head has become more difficult for millions of Americans.
That includes Angel Woodward, who moved into a rental home on Green Bay’s east side last week.
But that was only after Woodward and her family stayed at a motel for six months while they struggled to find a place within their budget.
“Factoring in the rent with what we make, and then our bills, I mean, it’s definitely taken more than half of our income,” said Woodward.
Woodward’s family isn’t alone. According to research data from Harvard’s Joint Center for Housing Studies, more than 22 million renter households were spending more than 30% of their income on rent in 2022.
Taking a closer look at the Green Bay area, the data shows 19.3% of renter households spent more than 50% of their income on rent that same year.
“You got to think about your rent, when it takes up that much of your income, you’ve also got your bills,” said Woodward. “You’ve got transportation you have to worry about, regardless of what type of transportation, you’re paying something.”
According to rent.com, the average rent in Green Bay for a one bedroom apartment is $1,027. That’s up 14% from last year.
“You got to find that sweet spot where you can still eat and they can still eat,” said housing provider Cinnamon Harley, who owns nine rental properties in Green Bay.
Since 2020, she’s had to increase her base rate by about $100. Maintenance and other repair costs have been a contributing factor.
“Plumbers used to be $80 just to show up. Now they’re like $120 and you just hope it’s not a major repair because it adds up so fast,” said Harley.
While the Woodwards are thankful to have found a place to call home, the price has put a strain on their expenses.
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