SpareRoom Survey Reveals High Housing Costs Are Reshaping American Renters' Lives
A new survey by SpareRoom highlights the growing impact of high housing costs on U.S. renters, revealing that many are making significant financial and personal sacrifices to afford rent. Nearly half (49.6%) would prefer living alone but cannot due to affordability issues, while over a third spend at least 50% of their take-home pay on housing. The survey also shows widespread effects beyond finances: nearly two-thirds report mental health impacts from high costs, and many are delaying medical care or retirement savings. The findings underscore how rising rents have become a broader economic issue affecting long-term planning and quality of life. Over 70% say they haven’t saved any money in the past year, with similar numbers dipping into existing savings to cover rent. Many are also taking on debt—via credit cards or payday loans—to stay housed. SpareRoom’s director notes that these trade-offs reflect a deepening affordability crisis reshaping where people live and how they work. The survey of 669 U.S. renters in roommate situations was conducted in September 2026, capturing the ongoing challenges faced by Americans as housing costs continue to rise.
Topics: consumer spending habits housing costs renter financial stress