MEDIA ADVISORY
San Diego Rental Trend Discouraging for Low-income Families,
Others on Fixed Incomes

SAN DIEGO – A report released yesterday by the National Low Income Housing Coalition affirmed what many poor San Diego families and individuals on fixed incomes already know: The regional cost of shelter is beyond their reach.

According to the report, the average monthly cost of a two-bedroom rental in San Diego is $1,175, requiring a typical worker to earn nearly $23 per hour to afford housing.

As rental costs in the region continue to climb, families and single adults on fixed incomes are finding it increasingly difficult to survive in San Diego’s tumultuous housing market.

" There’s no question we’re seeing more homeless families, disabled individuals, senior citizens and other people on fixed incomes accessing residential services at the Village," says Father Joe Carroll, president of St. Vincent de Paul Village. "Our new affordable housing complex was at capacity within two weeks of its opening and we still have people inquiring about availability."

The new 90-unit facility – offering monthly rents between $399 and $511 – is St. Vincent’s second affordable housing complex and brings the total number of inexpensive units the organization offers to 134. In addition, St. Vincent’s sleeps 900 children, family members and single adults in its short- and long-term residential programs nightly.

Still, people new to the streets come to the Village daily seeking respite from their dangerous sidewalk home.

" We provide as much as we can to help people on the fringe," Father Joe says. "Sadly, though, holes are developing in San Diego’s housing safety net."

Media inquiries will be taken at (619) 525-1608.
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