The Indicator from Planet Money · Friday, September 25, 2026
A recent survey by the Urban Institute revealed that 21.6% of middle-income renters, defined as those earning three to five times the federal poverty level, reported difficulties paying their rent in 2025. These individuals either missed full payments or were late due to affordability issues. The study also found that nearly 21% of these renters struggled to pay their full utility bills.
“That is the percentage of middle-income renters who said they had problems paying rent at some point in 2025.”
“Yeah, they told the Urban Institute in a survey that they either couldn't make their full rent payment or were late on payment because they couldn't afford it.”
“And for 2025, almost 21% of these middle-income renters said that they couldn't pay their full gas, electric, or oil bill at some point during the year.”