7 news stories and resources for Phoenix renters this week (March 18)

(Francesca Daly/COURIER)

By Jessica Swarner

March 18, 2026

This section appears in Rent Check PHX, a free biweekly newsletter made for Phoenix renters, written by someone who’s lived it. Sign up here.

From federal housing decisions impacting Arizona to lower-cost furniture that will bring some style to your rental, here’s a quick recap of helpful links for Phoenix renters.

🏘️ The US Senate passed its largest housing bill in decades that’s meant to increase supply and bring costs down. (NPR)

⏰ ICYMI: I spoke with US Sen. Ruben Gallego of Arizona last fall about his support for this legislation. (The Copper Courier)

❎ A federal program that supported the construction of over 533,000 affordable homes in rural areas is being phased out. (The Conversation)

🔑 An affordable, 104-unit apartment complex 20 years in the making is now open in Tempe. (KTAR)

🧑‍⚖️ Arizona’s attorney general joined a lawsuit accusing the federal government of illegally withholding funding that’s meant to fight housing discrimination. (12 News)

💸 More than 65% of Arizona homes on the market last year included HOA fees, with a median cost of $110 per month. (Axios Phoenix)

🛋️ Furniture shopping? Check out these cute loveseats you can buy for under $500. (Apartment Therapy)

MORE: How I scored cheap produce from a mobile market in my Phoenix neighborhood

Author

Jessica Swarner

Jessica Swarner is The Copper Courier’s newsletter editor. She is an Arizona State University alumna and previously worked at KTAR News 92.3 FM in Phoenix.

Have a story tip? Reach Jessica at [email protected]. For local reporting in Arizona that connects the dots, from policy to people, sign up for The Copper Courier's daily newsletter. For Phoenix housing news, renter-friendly design inspo, and real talk about renting, sign up for Rent Check PHX.

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CATEGORIES: HOUSING

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