July 1st 2024.
According to a recent report, it has been determined that minimum wage workers in Florida are facing a major challenge when it comes to affording housing. The National Low Income Housing Coalition conducted a study and found that in order to live in a home, these workers, who earn $12 per hour in Florida, must work far more than the standard 40 hours per week. This problem is not unique to Florida, as many states across the country are experiencing a cost-of-living crisis.
In fact, Florida was listed in the top 10 for being one of the most unaffordable states. The report revealed that the average cost for a two-bedroom apartment in Florida is $1,833 per month. This means that in order to make rent, a worker would need to earn at least $36 per hour. The cost for a one-bedroom is not much cheaper, with an average of $1,525 per month, requiring a minimum hourly wage of $29.33.
These rates are simply out of reach for those making minimum wage, leaving them with no choice but to work an exorbitant amount of hours just to have a place to live. For instance, a minimum wage worker would need to work around 100 hours per week to afford a two-bedroom apartment, and almost 120 hours per week for a one-bedroom. This equates to over 17-hour shifts every day of the week.
Given the impossible work hours required to afford housing, working class residents in Florida are faced with limited options. In response to this pressing issue, state legislators passed the Live Local Act in 2023, allocating $771 million towards affordable housing programs and developments.
Anne Ray, the manager of the Florida Housing Data Clearinghouse at the University of Florida's Shimberg Center for Housing Studies, emphasized the need for more affordable housing options for low-wage workers and seniors on fixed incomes. However, even those in professional jobs may struggle to afford housing in the current market.
Despite efforts to address the housing crisis, minimum wage employees in Florida continue to suffer from unaffordable living conditions. As inflation and debt continue to rise, it is essential for the state to prioritize affordable housing and support its working class residents.
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