City to Explore Renter Protections in Salem

More than half of Salem renters spend more than 30 percent of their income on housing, the definition of rent burdened. City Council has directed staff to return to Council with options for renter protection. The motion, approved February 9, aims to address the challenges renters face in Salem, including rising housing costs and widespread rent burden.

Why it Matters

A 2015 report determined that the City needed 23,000 new housing units by 2035. The Council emphasized the importance of keeping residents in stable housing as part of a broader housing strategy. Staff findings will be presented at a future meeting.

Key Challenges and Efforts

City staff will provide a summary of the state of renting in Salem, focusing on key challenges and efforts to address them. This will include data on rent-burdened households - those spending more than 30 percent of their income on housing - and severely rent-burdened households - those spending more than 50 percent.

By the Numbers

Currently, 51% of renter households in Salem are cost burdened, compared to 25 percent of homeowners. Between 2014 and 2024, the average multifamily rent in Salem increased by 53 percent, from $933 to $1,428 per month.

Limitations

Oregon law limits rent increases to 7 percent annually, with some exceptions, and prohibits local rent control ordinances. Within these statewide restrictions, the Council seeks to explore renter protections that could help residents - including working families, seniors, students, and vulnerable communities - remain in their homes.