America’s cost-of-living crisis is pushing millions toward eviction and foreclosure as rents skyrocket, mortgage rates hit historic highs, and affordable housing becomes increasingly scarce. Mortgage Calculator analyzed the percentage of adults behind on rent or mortgage payments to determine which areas face the greatest risk. Their findings, displayed on a color-coded map, reveal the metro areas where residents are most vulnerable:
• Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington
• Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land
• Chicago-Naperville-Elgin
• Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler
• Detroit-Warren-Dearborn
• Miami-Fort Lauderdale-Pompano Beach
• Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue
• Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Alpharetta
Beyond overall risk, eviction and foreclosure rates fluctuate by season. Miami sees peak risk in January, Seattle in February, and Phoenix in March. San Francisco, a city already struggling with affordability, experiences surges in April, May, and August. Statewide, Idaho has the highest eviction and foreclosure risk, followed closely by Montana. In cities like Dallas and Houston, a dramatic decline in affordable housing has contributed to high rates of financial instability. The situation is particularly dire for renters, who are more likely to be cost-burdened, spending over 30% of their income on housing.
With eviction and foreclosure risks shifting throughout the year, this analysis provides valuable insight into the growing housing crisis. It highlights the urgent need for solutions, from increasing affordable housing to stabilizing rental markets to prevent further displacement of vulnerable residents. Understanding these trends can help policymakers, advocates, and affected individuals prepare for and respond to the challenges ahead.
