LANCASTER, S.C. — As the cost of living increases, some South Carolina renters are asking ‘Where’s the Money,’ worried they may be priced out of a home.
La’Queisha Brevard lives in Lancaster with her three sons.
She said she lost her job after having medical complications from a car crash. Now, she’s not sure how she’ll make ends meet with her rent, once $650 a month, now more than $700.
“A lot of these jobs are willing to pay you $15 an hour, which is not enough to even live off of and take care of your children,” Brevard said. “Lancaster is so small. There are no resources available for people like me. The waiting list for public housing is four years. What am I to do between now and four years? How do I get by?”
Across the Palmetto State, the median rent is more than $1,500, according to a September analysis by Rent.com. That’s up nearly 5% from last year.
Holly Furr, who leads United Way of Lancaster County, said Brevard isn’t alone.
“We get calls almost daily from people who are experiencing issues with being able to pay their rent, make ends meet,” Furr said.
She said her organization and others like HOPE in Lancaster offer some emergency assistance, but it’s often not enough to meet the need.
“When you get behind on one thing, then that sets a snowball effect for everything else,” Furr said.
Brevard said she’s received assistance from both organizations and is still looking for work.
“My faith is keeping me strong,” Brevard said. “I feel like God is just going to have to get me through this season.”
The city of Lancaster said it’s working to attract developers who will create more moderate to low-income housing options.
The challenge is finding companies willing to make that commitment, according to city leaders.
Contact Kayland Hagwood at khagwood@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.
WCNC Charlotte is always asking "where's the money?" If you need help, reach out to WCNC Charlotte by emailing money@wcnc.com.