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We asked, you answered: Renters weigh in on high rents and forced moves

By Jessica Swarner

December 18, 2025

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

A few weeks ago, I wrote this story about how common it is for renters in Phoenix to move as frequently as every two years.

When we posted the story on Instagram, we received some thoughtful comments that, at least to me, are incredibly relatable. I wanted to share them here so you can hear from some other renters!

🔑 “It’s not just rent, it’s also poorly maintained properties. Landlords skimp on making necessary repairs to the property and people feel forced to move.” — @angrydaisyy

🔑 “Musical chairs as Blackstone keeps jacking up the price of rent.” — @baronletterpress

🔑 “I live in Tempe. I would love to make a space for myself. But I’ll be moving again soon.” — @cheddar_bay_of_pigs

🔑 “Here in the Tucson area, I was at my apartment for 5 years until I moved. It’s greedy private equity and management companies constantly raising rent prices.” — @nomadic_runner

🔑 “@firstkeyhomes automatically raises rent yearly for ‘cost of living’ (allegedly).” — @renealiz96

🔑 “The rental market is nothing but expensive trash out here.” — @_pallormortis

🔑 “Because you have to move to get a better deal. My apartment complex is half empty because they won’t lower rent or agree to not raise it. So now they have half the units vacant for months instead of making any money at all. FAFO landlords ¯\_(ツ)_/¯” — @sentient_roomba

 

MORE: Interesting rental listings we found in Phoenix this week (Dec. 17)

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CATEGORIES: HOUSING

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