More than Shelter: The Effect of Rental Eviction Moratoria on Household Well-Being
Xudong An, Stuart A. Gabriel, Nitzan Tzur-Ilan
Abstract
We investigate the impact of the 2020 COVID-19 rental eviction moratoria on household well-being. Analysis of new panel data indicates that eviction moratoria reduced evictions and resulted in redirection of scarce household financial resources to immediate consumption needs, notably including food and grocery spending. We also find that eviction moratoria reduced household food insecurity and mental stress, with larger effects evidenced among African American households. Findings suggest broad salutary effects of eviction moratoria during a period of widespread virus and economic distress.
Topics & Concepts
EvictionRentingConsumption (sociology)BusinessAgricultural economicsEconomicsNatural resource economicsPolitical scienceSociologySocial scienceLawHomelessness and Social IssuesHousing, Finance, and NeoliberalismGeriatric Care and Nursing Homes