Renters in Los Angeles County are facing significant financial pressures, with nearly 40% worried about homelessness and a similar number concerned about affording food, according to a recent UCLA survey. The 2024 Quality of Life Index underscores the harsh realities of living in one of the nation’s most expensive regions, where even affluent residents feel the pinch of high living costs.

This year, the survey’s overall quality of life score tied with 2022 for the lowest since 2016, signaling a widespread impact across various demographics. Renters, in particular, expressed deep concerns, with only a quarter believing homeownership is within reach and over half feeling pessimistic about their economic futures in the county.

The steep cost of living is exacerbated by stagnant wages and rising rents, making the economic situation for renters increasingly precarious. The median rent in Los Angeles stands at $2,083, only slightly decreased from last year but still significantly high. Compounding the issue, a report from the Housing Initiative at Penn highlighted that tens of thousands of L.A. households are behind on rent, with many accruing debt post-pandemic due to ongoing economic challenges.

Eviction risks are mounting as COVID-era protections have ended, with 2022 seeing the highest number of eviction filings since 2016. Advocates worry this number will rise, stressing the importance of maintaining housing to prevent further homelessness.

The situation calls for a renewed focus on protective measures like Proposition 13, which has historically helped keep property taxes predictable and manageable, particularly benefiting seniors and those on fixed incomes. As debates around Proposition 13’s future unfold, the implications for homeowners and the broader community remain a critical point of concern, underscoring the need for policies that ensure stability and affordability in California’s challenging housing market.