Denver is on track to break its record for evictions this year, surpassing 9,000 filings so far. Statewide, Colorado has seen a 10% increase in evictions compared to last year, fueling concerns about housing affordability and the need for legislative action.
Denver is bracing for a record-breaking year in evictions, with over 9,000 filings recorded so far and projections indicating a possible 20% increase by the end of 2023. This surge mirrors a broader trend across Colorado, where eviction filings have risen by 10% compared to this time last year.
Soaring housing prices and stagnant wages are driving the eviction crisis, leaving many Coloradans struggling to make ends meet. Denver's Department of Housing Stability anticipates over 15,000 eviction filings by 2024, a grim milestone that would surpass the previous record set in 2023.
Eviction Surge in Colorado: Denver Set to Shatter Record
"People don't make enough money to comfortably pay their rent," explains Zach Neumann, co-founder of the Community Economic Defense Project. "A single $500 emergency can suddenly make it impossible for someone to pay their rent."
In November 2023, Governor Jared Polis allocated $30 million for rental assistance in Colorado. However, the funds were depleted by June, providing temporary relief to approximately 8,000 households. The state plans to provide additional funding, but questions remain about the effectiveness and sustainability of these programs.
Eviction Surge in Colorado: Denver Set to Shatter Record
"The state budget may not be able to effectively account for every single eviction," acknowledges Neumann. "Do we have the financial bandwidth?"
Advocates like Neumann urge the state to confront the root causes of rising rents, particularly the influence of corporate landlords. "Unaffordable rents have put basic housing out of reach for working families. We need fair practices that ensure all Coloradans have access to a safe and stable home," he emphasizes.
Eviction Surge in Colorado: Denver Set to Shatter Record
While some acknowledge the benefits of rental assistance programs, others argue that broader legislative measures are necessary.
"We should be urging our legislators to tackle inflation, creating more jobs, and making living more affordable," suggests Destiny Bossert of the Colorado Apartment Association.
Eviction Surge in Colorado: Denver Set to Shatter Record
According to the National Low Income Housing Coalition, Colorado ranks eighth among the most expensive states for affordable households. The fair market rental value of a one-bedroom apartment in Denver is estimated at $1,600 per month, requiring a $14-per-hour minimum wage employee to work 85 hours per week to afford it.
The eviction crisis has profound consequences for both individuals and communities. Families face displacement, job loss, and homelessness, while neighborhoods experience increased crime and diminished property values.
Urgent action is needed to address the underlying causes of the eviction crisis and ensure that all Coloradans have access to affordable, stable housing.
