The Hidden Crisis: How High Rent is Forcing Georgia Residents into Extended-Stay Hotels

Thousands of Georgia residents face a harsh reality: rent consumes up to 77% of their income. This financial strain leaves many unable to afford traditional housing, pushing them into extended-stay hotels for months or even years. What was meant to be temporary shelter has become long-term housing for a growing number of people. This blog explores how soaring rent prices are reshaping living situations in Georgia and what this means for residents and communities.

Georgia Residents, Extended-Stay

Extended-stay hotel housing many Georgia residents due to high rent

Why Rent Takes Such a Large Share of Income

In many parts of Georgia, especially urban areas like Atlanta, rent prices have increased faster than wages. For some residents, rent now takes up to 77% of their monthly income. This leaves little money for essentials like food, transportation, and healthcare. When rent consumes such a large portion of income, people struggle to save or move to better housing.

Several factors contribute to this situation:

• Limited affordable housing supply: New developments often target higher-income renters, reducing options for low- and middle-income residents.

• Rising demand: Population growth and urbanization increase competition for rental units.

• Stagnant wages: Income growth has not kept pace with rent increases, squeezing budgets tighter.

  
  

Extended-Stay Hotels as a Last Resort

Extended-stay hotels offer a short-term solution for people who cannot afford traditional leases or face eviction. These hotels provide furnished rooms with flexible rental terms, making them accessible for those without long-term leases or credit history.

However, many residents end up living in these hotels far longer than intended. The cost per month can be high, and the accommodations often lack the stability and community of regular housing. Residents face challenges such as:

• Limited space and privacy

• Lack of kitchen facilities or laundry access

• Higher overall living costs compared to apartments

• Difficulty establishing residency for jobs, schools, or benefits

  
  

For example, a single mother in Atlanta shared that she has lived in an extended-stay hotel for over a year because she cannot find affordable apartments within her budget. The hotel rent takes most of her income, but it provides a roof over her children’s heads.

Impact on Communities and Solutions

This hidden crisis affects not only individuals but also neighborhoods and local economies. Long-term hotel residents may have limited access to community resources, and the transient nature of hotel living can weaken neighborhood ties.

Addressing this issue requires coordinated efforts:

• Increase affordable housing development: Local governments and developers can prioritize building units for low- and moderate-income renters.

• Rent assistance programs: Expanding financial aid can help residents avoid eviction and reduce reliance on hotels.

• Tenant protections: Stronger laws can prevent sudden rent hikes and unfair evictions.

• Support services: Providing case management and housing counseling can help residents transition to stable housing.

  
  

What Residents Can Do

If you or someone you know is struggling with high rent, consider these steps:

• Reach out to local housing agencies for rental assistance programs.

• Explore nonprofit organizations that offer housing counseling.

• Connect with community groups advocating for affordable housing.

• Budget carefully to prioritize housing costs and avoid eviction.

  
  

Living in an extended-stay hotel is a sign of a larger problem in Georgia’s housing market. By understanding the causes and seeking support, residents can work toward more stable and affordable living situations.