Many young people in Cardiff are feeling the financial strain of the city’s rental crisis, as soaring rents make it increasingly difficult to move out of their family homes. One such individual is 24-year-old Taite Johnson, who had always envisioned living independently by 18, following in the footsteps of his parents. However, with his birthday approaching, Taite finds himself still residing in his family home alongside his mum, sister, and two dogs.
Despite being mentally prepared to venture out on his own, the escalating rental costs in Cardiff have presented a significant obstacle. Over the past nine years, rental prices in the city have nearly doubled, with data from the Office for National Statistics showing a 50.72% increase since 2015. In August 2015, the average monthly rent stood at £692, compared to a staggering £1,043 this August. Even with a full-time job, Taite finds these costs prohibitive and unsustainable if he were to live independently.
Taite’s predicament is shared by many residents of Cardiff, with the city experiencing a higher increase in rental prices compared to the national average. While contemplating the option of looking outside Cardiff for more affordable housing, Taite faces additional challenges as his job is central to the city. Despite not pursuing university education like many of his peers who subsequently moved out, Taite is deterred by the prospect of house shares due to unsettling stories and prefers to avoid living with strangers.
Saving up to buy his own house initially seemed like a viable alternative, but without a partner, Taite realised this would prolong his stay at home. Although living with family has its perks, such as reduced household expenses, Taite longs for the independence of having his place. However, given the current rental landscape in Cardiff, this aspiration appears increasingly out of reach, mirroring the reality faced by many young adults in the city.
The financial burdens extend beyond rent alone, as the overall cost of living continues to rise, leaving individuals like Taite with minimal discretionary income after paying essential bills. Despite the challenges, Taite remains hopeful for a future where moving into his own space becomes a tangible prospect. In the meantime, he finds solace in the comforts of home while navigating the hurdles posed by Cardiff’s rental crisis.