Eviction Facts & Statistics

Evictions are a major issue affecting communities across the United States. They can have a devastating impact on families and individuals, leading to homelessness, financial instability, and even mental health issues.

In this article, we will take a look at some of the key eviction statistics and explore the impact of evictions on communities.

• According to a study conducted in 2020, approximately 2.3 million evictions occurred in the United States.
• The state with the highest eviction rate in the US is Louisiana, with a rate of 5.37%.
• On average, it takes about 16 days from the filing of an eviction notice to the actual eviction.
• Women are more likely to face eviction than men, accounting for 54% of eviction cases.
• Single mothers with children are particularly vulnerable to eviction, representing a significant portion of eviction cases.
• African Americans are disproportionately affected by evictions, accounting for 34% of eviction cases, despite representing only 13% of the US population.
• Studies have shown that eviction rates are higher in neighborhoods with predominantly minority populations.
• In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic led to a significant increase in eviction filings in many countries, exacerbating housing insecurity.
• Rental property owners cite nonpayment of rent as the most common reason for initiating eviction proceedings.
• In some states, landlords can evict tenants without providing a reason, known as "no-cause" evictions.
• The majority of eviction cases are filed by corporate landlords and property management companies rather than individual landlords.
• Evictions can have long-lasting effects on individuals and families, leading to increased homelessness, poverty, and mental health issues.
• According to a study published in 2017, evicted individuals are more likely to experience future eviction and have difficulty finding stable housing.
• Eviction rates tend to be higher in urban areas compared to rural areas.
• In some cases, tenants facing eviction may be able to negotiate a settlement with their landlords to avoid eviction.
• The cost of an eviction can vary significantly depending on the jurisdiction, but it often includes court fees, attorney fees, and unpaid rent.
• The eviction process can be time-consuming and costly for landlords as well, involving legal procedures and court appearances.
• Eviction records can make it challenging for individuals to secure future rental housing, as landlords often perform background checks.
• In certain cases, landlords may hire specialized eviction companies to carry out the eviction process.
• Rent control policies have been implemented in some cities to protect tenants from excessive rent increases and reduce the likelihood of eviction.

• The eviction rate among low-income households is significantly higher compared to higher-income households.
• Eviction rates tend to be higher in neighborhoods with lower median incomes.
• Students and young adults, particularly those attending college, are at higher risk of eviction due to financial constraints.
• The COVID-19 pandemic led to temporary eviction moratoriums in several countries, protecting tenants from eviction during the crisis.
• Landlords often require tenants to provide a security deposit as a safeguard against property damage or unpaid rent.
• The eviction process typically involves serving the tenant with an eviction notice, followed by a court hearing if the tenant does not vacate voluntarily.
• The length of the eviction process can vary significantly, ranging from a few weeks to several months.
• In some cases, landlords may engage in "self-help" evictions, which involve actions such as changing locks or cutting off utilities, without going through the legal process.
• Eviction rates can fluctuate based on economic conditions, with higher rates during periods of economic downturn.
• According to a study published in 2019, eviction rates are higher in areas with limited affordable housing options.
• Homeowners facing foreclosure may also experience eviction if they are unable to resolve their mortgage issues.
• Eviction can lead to negative educational outcomes for children, including school disruption and lower academic performance.
• Landlords may be more likely to evict tenants who report repair or maintenance issues, which can create a cycle of substandard housing conditions.
• Some cities and states have implemented right to counsel programs, providing free legal representation to tenants facing eviction.
• Evictions can contribute to neighborhood instability and decreased property values.
• Eviction rates tend to be higher among rental properties owned by small-scale landlords compared to larger property management companies.
• The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for stronger tenant protections and affordable housing initiatives.
• In some cases, tenants may be able to contest an eviction in court, presenting evidence or arguing against the eviction.
• Homelessness prevention programs, such as rental assistance and supportive services, can help reduce eviction rates.
• Research has shown that implementing policies that provide stable and affordable housing options can decrease eviction rates and improve overall community well-being.

Eviction Rate by Country

Eviction rates can vary widely by country due to differences in housing policies, tenant protections, and economic conditions. Here are some examples of eviction rates in different countries:

• United States: Eviction rates in the United States vary by state and city, but a 2018 study found that 2.3 million evictions were filed in the United States in 2016, equivalent to about one eviction filing for every 40 renter households.
• United Kingdom: In England and Wales, there were over 22,000 evictions in 2019, a decrease from previous years due to changes in government policies.
• France: Eviction rates in France are relatively low due to strong tenant protections. In 2015, there were approximately 130,000 evictions, or one eviction for every 153 rental households.
• Japan: Eviction rates in Japan are among the lowest in the world due to a cultural emphasis on stability and harmony. In 2017, there were approximately 1,600 court-ordered evictions nationwide.

It's worth noting that eviction rates don't capture the full scope of housing insecurity and displacement, as many people may leave their homes voluntarily due to unaffordable rent or other factors.

Eviction Rate by State

1. Louisiana – 5.37%
2. Georgia – 4.15%
3. Nevada – 4.10%
4. Florida – 4.01%
5. Mississippi – 3.92%
6. South Carolina – 3.86%
7. Texas – 3.84%
8. Arizona – 3.80%
9. Indiana – 3.74%
10. Tennessee – 3.74%
11. Alabama – 3.73%
12. Illinois – 3.60%
13. Arkansas – 3.57%
14. Michigan – 3.52%
15. Missouri – 3.44%
16. North Carolina – 3.43%
17. Delaware – 3.34%
18. Oklahoma – 3.26%
19. Kentucky – 3.26%
20. Ohio – 3.23%
21. California – 3.23%
22. Rhode Island – 3.22%
23. New York – 3.21%
24. Pennsylvania – 3.17%
25. Colorado – 3.11%
26. Wisconsin – 3.08%
27. New Jersey – 3.06%
28. New Mexico – 3.05%
29. Virginia – 3.04%
30. Connecticut – 2.92%
31. Maryland – 2.83%
32. Kansas – 2.83%
33. Hawaii – 2.83%
34. Oregon – 2.75%
35. Minnesota – 2.72%
36. Washington – 2.71%
37. West Virginia – 2.63%
38. Nebraska – 2.62%
39. Alaska – 2.60%
40. Massachusetts – 2.59%
41. Iowa – 2.58%
42. Maine – 2.57%
43. New Hampshire – 2.56%
44. Vermont – 2.51%
45. North Dakota – 2.44%
46. South Dakota – 2.44%
47. Utah – 2.39%
48. Wyoming – 2.26%
49. Montana – 2.18%
50. Idaho – 1.91%

Please keep in mind that these rates are subject to change, and it's advisable to consult recent data sources or housing agencies for the most up-to-date information on eviction rates by state.

Common Reasons for Apartment Eviction

• Non-payment of rent: This is the most common reason for eviction. If a tenant fails to pay rent, the landlord may begin eviction proceedings.
• Lease violations: Tenants who violate the terms of their lease, such as by having unauthorized pets or guests, may be subject to eviction.
• Property damage: If a tenant causes damage to the apartment or building, the landlord may evict them.
• Illegal activity: If a tenant engages in illegal activity on the property, such as drug use or dealing, the landlord may evict them.
• Nuisance behavior: If a tenant engages in behavior that is disruptive to other tenants or neighbors, such as loud parties or fighting, the landlord may evict them.
• Holding over: If a tenant remains in the apartment after their lease has ended without permission from the landlord, they may be subject to eviction.

Landlords cannot simply evict tenants without following proper legal procedures. These procedures vary by state and locality but generally involve giving the tenant notice and going through a court process.

Conclusion

Evictions are a significant problem affecting communities across the United States. They can have a devastating impact on families and individuals, particularly those in low-income and minority communities. By understanding the scope of the problem and exploring possible solutions, we can work towards creating a more just and equitable housing system for all Americans.