In Connecticut, the fair market rent (FMR) for a two-bedroom apartment is $1,226. In order to afford this level of rent, plus utilities, without paying more than 30% of income on housing, a household must earn $4,088 monthly or $49,051 annually.
Assuming a 40-hour work week, 52 weeks per year, a household must earn at least $23.58 an hour.
But the average wage for a renter in Connecticut is $15.81. In order to afford the FMR for a two-bedroom apartment at this wage, a renter must work 60 hours a week, 52 weeks a year.
And, a worker earning Connecticut’s $8.25 minimum wage must work 114 hours per week, 52 weeks per year to afford this rent.
No wonder so many people who have jobs end up in food lines - after they pay the rent, there is just not enough left for groceries and other essentials!
(Source: National Low Income Housing Coalition, 3/11/13, Out-of-Reach)
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