Average Single Adult Struggles to Afford City Rent: Shocking Data Revealed

Recent analysis reveals that the average single adult in Maricopa struggles to afford rental housing. This conclusion stems from a combination of U.S. Census Bureau data and a draft of the city’s 2025 Housing Needs Assessment Update. The document was presented to the Maricopa Planning and Zoning Commission last week by economic consultant Elliott D. Pollack & Company.

The draft offers an insightful examination of Maricopa’s housing landscape, shedding light on demographic trends and necessary adjustments for future planning. This marks the first comprehensive assessment since 2017, when local leaders recognized the growing need for “workforce housing.”

During the presentation, consultants highlighted Maricopa’s developing rental scene, totaling approximately 4,400 units across various apartments and single-family homes. However, the inventory remains insufficient, with only 1,331 apartment units completed since 2022, contrasting sharply with over 3,200 rental houses.

Rental prices vary significantly in the area, ranging from $884 to $1,898 per month. Notably, the median household income for renters is nearly $94,000, yet the average single adult’s income stands at only $35,736 in 2023, according to the Census data.

Interestingly, the average apartment in Maricopa accommodates more than four residents, which doubles the state average. While families may find apartments accessible, single adults face significant obstacles, as observed by EDPC Senior Economist Danny Court. “Years ago, purchasing a home in the $200,000 range was plausible,” he mentioned. “Now, where can those earning $40,000 to $70,000 afford to live comfortably?”

For many, the answer is increasingly discouraging; those earning closer to $40,000 may find renting a challenge. Indeed, renting a studio or one-bedroom apartment necessitates a minimum income of $51,000, while a two-bedroom unit requires around $64,000, and a three-bedroom goes up to $70,000.

This financial strain particularly impacts service industry workers. For instance, a Chipotle crew member typically earns about $33,000 annually, while a CVS store associate can make up to $45,000, according to job listings on Indeed.

The Housing Needs Assessment further indicated that just over half of all renters experience cost burdens, spending more than 30% of their income on housing. Alarmingly, one in five renters pays over half their income on housing, categorizing them as severely cost burdened, based on findings from the census and HUD.

For a more thorough exploration of cost burdens and eviction trends in Maricopa, readers can refer to the April edition of InMaricopa magazine.