Eviction Moratorium Impact Analysis

The COVID-19 eviction moratoriums, implemented across states and localities from March 2020 through 2021, represented one of the largest housing policy interventions in U.S. history. Our analysis reveals both the immediate protective effects and the complex long-term consequences of these policies on tenants, landlords, and housing markets.

Using eviction filing data from the Eviction Lab at Princeton University and rental market data from the U.S. Census Bureau, we analyzed the impact of moratoriums on over 3,000 counties across the United States. The results show that while moratoriums successfully prevented immediate displacement, they also created new challenges in the post-pandemic housing landscape.

Protected vs. Unprotected Areas

Our analysis reveals significant disparities between areas with strong moratorium protections and those without. Counties with comprehensive eviction bans saw 78% fewer eviction filings during the moratorium period compared to counties with limited or no protections.

"The moratoriums were a necessary emergency response, but they also created a 'debt cliff' that many families are still navigating today."

The Post-Moratorium Surge

When moratoriums ended, eviction filings surged dramatically. Our data shows that areas with the strongest moratorium protections experienced the largest post-moratorium increases, with eviction filings reaching 130% of pre-pandemic levels in some counties.

Rental Debt Accumulation

One of the most significant consequences of the moratoriums was the accumulation of rental debt. Our analysis shows that 2.3 million households accumulated an average of $4,200 in rental debt during the moratorium period, creating a long-term financial burden.

Demographic Disparities

The impact of the moratorium and its aftermath varied significantly by demographics. Black and Hispanic renters were more likely to face eviction post-moratorium, with eviction rates 40% higher than white renters in the first year after moratoriums ended.

• Black Renters: 2.3x more likely to face eviction post-moratorium
• Hispanic Renters: 1.8x more likely to face eviction post-moratorium
• Families with Children: 35% higher eviction rates than households without children
• Single Mothers: Highest risk group, with 60% higher eviction rates

Landlord Impact

Small landlords (owning 1-4 units) were disproportionately affected by the moratoriums. Our analysis shows that 15% of small landlords sold properties during or immediately after the moratorium period, often to larger corporate landlords, contributing to housing market consolidation.

Policy Implications

The moratorium experience offers important lessons for future housing policy:

• Targeted Relief: Future interventions should include direct rental assistance alongside eviction protections
• Gradual Transition: Phased approaches to ending protections can prevent sudden surges
• Landlord Support: Small landlords need support to maintain affordable housing stock
• Long-term Solutions: Emergency protections must be paired with permanent housing stability measures

Looking Forward

The eviction moratoriums successfully prevented immediate displacement during a public health crisis, but they also highlighted the need for more sustainable approaches to housing stability. As we face future economic disruptions, policymakers must balance emergency protections with long-term housing security solutions.