The Eviction Crisis in Maricopa County: A Closer Look
In August alone, nearly 8,000 eviction filings were recorded in Maricopa County, making it the second-highest in the state, according to county records.
While this number may seem alarming, it’s essential to note that not all of those people actually lost their housing. In fact, around a third of the filings are dismissed after the tenant receives a summons, as shared by Scott Davis with Maricopa Justice Courts.
Recent data indicates that four of the highest-eviction months in the county have occurred within the past year:
- Jan 2024: 8,025
- Aug 2024: 7,957
- Oct 2023: 7,947
- Jul 2024: 7,903
- Aug 2005: 7,902
Adam Chapnick, a Research Specialist with The Eviction Lab, expressed concern, stating that Maricopa County has one of the highest rates of eviction filings in the country. High rent prices are a significant factor contributing to this trend, with renters experiencing cost burdens ranging from 30% to as high as 80%, particularly for lower-income groups.
The Valley Tenants Union has also echoed these sentiments, highlighting abusive practices such as minor lease violations leading to eviction notices for tenants.
Looking at data spanning more than two decades, it’s observed that eviction cases tend to increase through October and decrease in November.
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