TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WCTV/Gray Florida Capital Bureau) – Florida ranks as the worst state for renters, according to a new Consumer Affairs report, as about 2.8 million Floridians struggle with rising housing costs.
The report shows 67% of renters say they’re treading water.
State Rep. Anna Eskamani, D-Orlando, said the findings align with what she’s heard from constituents.
“It doesn’t surprise me to see this report,” said Eskamani, who rents her own home and has advocated for renters in the legislature for years.
“There really is an uneven dynamic when it comes to a renter’s ability to make ends meet, to pay their bills on time. And of course, the path of an eviction is a really damaging one,” she said.
The Consumer Affairs report confirms findings from a University of Florida report last year showing rent jumped 39% between 2019 and 2023.
Samir Goel, co-CEO of financial health website Esusu, said rising rent costs are preventing many from buying homes.
“It’s their biggest monthly expense, sometimes comprising, you know, up to 1/3 or more of their income, but they’re not getting any credit for it. They’re not building wealth. They’re not improving their credit. They’re not sort of reaching their bigger aspirations of the American dream, whatever that might be,” Goel said.
Florida Politics:
Florida has worked to address the housing crisis for several years, with the Live Local Act in 2023 representing the biggest push. The comprehensive strategy created several new programs to bring more workforce housing to the state.
Sen. Kathleen Passidomo, R-Naples, said in September 2025 that the law is being implemented and officials are hearing suggestions from local governments and developers on ways to improve it.
Eskamani said the Live Local Act is a good long-term plan but the state needs immediate action.
“We also can’t ignore that immediate urgent need, which is where mutual aid, rental assistance, and access to legal aid in the face of housing discrimination. So all of those other elements are a very important piece of this puzzle,” she said.
A new state law fast-tracks the permitting process for housing development. It’s too early to tell how that will help ease the burden for renters.
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