Do renters need roommates to afford Memphis apartment rates?
Some renters say they need a roommate to be able to afford apartment rates in Memphis. (The Daily Memphian file)
Aidan Sutcliffe, 22, moved in with his dad when the pandemic hit, expecting it to be temporary.
However, four years later, due to the high cost of rent, he is still staying in his dad’s spare bedroom.
“It’s expensive right now, really expensive,” Sutcliffe said. “I’m 22, and I’m still living with my dad because I really can’t afford to move out by myself.”
Sutcliffe, a barista at Hustle & Dough Bakery and Cafe, said he would have to seek a roommate if he wanted to move into his own place.
Due to high rental rates and cost of living, Memphis residents have had to seek out roommates, live with their parents longer or compromise on amenities to live alone.
In Downtown at South Bluffs, a one-bedroom, one-bathroom, 945-square-foot apartment costs $1,425 without utilities. A two-bedroom, two-bathroom, 1,200-square-foot apartment costs $1,699.
At The Rise in the Edge District, a one-bedroom, one-bathroom, 889-square-foot apartment costs $1,899 without utilities. A two-bedroom, two-bathroom, 1,095-square-foot apartment costs $2,253.
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Sophia Surrett
Sophia Surrett is a recent University of Alabama graduate, where she received her B.A. in news media and M.A. in journalism and media studies. She covers restaurants, residential real estate, and hospitality and tourism.
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