Renters

Hundreds of thousands of renters in the Austin area are, quite literally, burdened by the price of shelter, meaning they have less income to spend on groceries, transportation and healthcare.

A new report shows renters and homeowners are under significant strain from housing costs. Housing affordability is slipping faster in Texas than the national average.

KUT's housing reporter, Audrey McGlinchy, wants your stories. She may reach out to you to learn more.

In an analysis of 2022 U.S. Census Bureau data, Harvard University researchers found that roughly 48% of renters in the Austin metro area spent more than they should on housing.

The City of Austin and a nonprofit bought seven apartment complexes with the promise of keeping rents low for tenants. Instead, rents went up. Residents have now received notice that if they submit their income and prove they make less than $65,000 a year, their monthly rent may go down.

Residents at Creeks Edge Apartments are asking the city to officially sanction the landlord, prohibiting it from renting to new tenants.

In short, no. According to state law, a landlord cannot shut off utilities without agreement from the tenant unless there is an emergency, repair or construction.

Council members passed two ordinances Thursday, both centered on renters. One could help renters stave off eviction, and the other is intended to prevent landlord backlash when tenants organize.

A new report shows the cost of renting a home or apartment is up 15% nationally to a new record high.

Volunteer Legal Services of Central Texas is running a new program where lawyers show up in most Travis County eviction courts to offer representation for tenants.