State Representative Carl Gilliard and the Senate Urban Affairs Committee have voiced their concerns. “The rent is too high. We have a housing crisis across Georgia,” Gilliard emphasized. Savannah, in particular, faces steep rental costs, ranking as one of the top two cities in the state for expensive rent.Currently, the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in Savannah is around $1,500. To avoid spending more than 30% of one’s income on rent, a resident would need to earn approximately $60,000 annually. However, the median income in Chatham County is just $54,000. This disparity often forces people to choose less safe living areas due to affordability constraints.State Senator David Lucas pointed out the stark reality.”What is the amount you have to pay to live in a community that is safe?” said Lucas.The committee is considering various proposals for the upcoming legislative session, including the possibility of rent control measures.Rent control has already been adopted in states like New York and California, and the committee believes it could be a viable option for Georgia as well. Gilliard also mentioned efforts to make homeownership more accessible.The high median house price in Savannah—approximately $300,000—according to Zillow. Which may be significant barrier for many.To support those struggling with housing costs, the Georgia Department of Community Affairs offers the Home Safe program. This initiative helps residents manage mortgage arrears and provides assistance for those falling behind.The committee, along with Representative Gilliard, will return to Savannah on October 12th at 10:00 a.m. at Savannah Tech to discuss these issues further with the community and explore potential solutions.
State Representative Carl Gilliard and the Senate Urban Affairs Committee have voiced their concerns. “The rent is too high. We have a housing crisis across Georgia,” Gilliard emphasized.
Savannah, in particular, faces steep rental costs, ranking as one of the top two cities in the state for expensive rent.
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Currently, the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in Savannah is around $1,500. To avoid spending more than 30% of one’s income on rent, a resident would need to earn approximately $60,000 annually. However, the median income in Chatham County is just $54,000. This disparity often forces people to choose less safe living areas due to affordability constraints.
State Senator David Lucas pointed out the stark reality.
“What is the amount you have to pay to live in a community that is safe?” said Lucas.
The committee is considering various proposals for the upcoming legislative session, including the possibility of rent control measures.
Rent control has already been adopted in states like New York and California, and the committee believes it could be a viable option for Georgia as well. Gilliard also mentioned efforts to make homeownership more accessible.
The high median house price in Savannah—approximately $300,000—according to Zillow. Which may be significant barrier for many.
To support those struggling with housing costs, the Georgia Department of Community Affairs offers the Home Safe program. This initiative helps residents manage mortgage arrears and provides assistance for those falling behind.
The committee, along with Representative Gilliard, will return to Savannah on October 12th at 10:00 a.m. at Savannah Tech to discuss these issues further with the community and explore potential solutions.