Hurricanes Drove Rent Increases and Evictions

Researchers found that storm-affected areas experienced consistent rent growth and higher eviction filings.

Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Apartments

Gouache-painted illustration of a single damaged storm shutter hanging by a hinge on coastal house siding, evoking housing instability. — A new study reveals that hurricane-prone regions across the U.S. face persistent rent spikes and higher eviction rates, leaving renters disproportionately vulnerable. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Should disaster recovery policies prioritize renter protection and rent stability over physical housing reconstruction?

A study of county-level data from 2009 to 2018 across 19 East and Gulf Coast states linked hurricane exposure to increased eviction filing rates. Findings show that rising housing costs following storms created significant displacement pressure for renters.

Why it matters

The study suggests that current disaster recovery programs prioritize property damage repair over renter financial assistance, leaving tenants vulnerable. Renters often lack control over housing repairs and have limited access to property-owner aid, which exacerbates displacement risks.

Researchers observed an average rent increase of 1.8% during the year of a hurricane and 2.7% in the year following, with elevated costs persisting for up to two years. The analysis covered 19 East and Gulf Coast states between 2009 and 2018.

The players

Rowan University

This public research university in New Jersey led the study on the connection between storm exposure and rental housing market volatility.

The details

Hurricanes drive rent increases that create immediate displacement pressure for renters in affected communities. Because disaster recovery programs prioritize property damage repair, renters often face financial instability without access to the same assistance available to property owners.

2009-2018: Period of county-level data analyzed by researchers.
Year of hurricane: Rent increased by an average of 1.8 percent.
Year following hurricane: Rent increased by an average of 2.7 percent.
Two years post-storm: Duration of persisted elevated rent prices.

Culture Shift

The study highlights a shift in how climate-related risks intersect with housing affordability, moving away from viewing rent increases solely as a function of demand. This research challenges the assumption that property recovery naturally protects the stability of the local population.

Renters in hurricane-prone regions may face higher housing costs and increased eviction risks for up to two years after a major storm. Residents should investigate local disaster assistance programs specifically designed for tenants, as these are often distinct from homeowner-focused aid.

The takeaway

Renters should be aware that housing markets in storm-prone areas are susceptible to lingering price inflation long after physical damages are repaired. Establishing an emergency housing fund and understanding local tenant protections can help mitigate the risks of post-disaster displacement.