Where to Stay? The Los Angeles Wildfires Have Exacerbated the Desert’s Affordable Housing Shortage

Evacuated from LA Fires, many Find Desert Rentals Scarce and Expensive

Updated: February 15, 2023

when wildfires devastated Los Angeles in early January, Brandon Eugene Owens, a musician from Pasadena, sought refuge in Palm Springs, bringing his mother with him after she was evacuated from her nursing home.But finding a stable and affordable place to stay has become a major challenge. Owens isn’t alone. Thousands of displaced Angelenos are grappling with a strained rental market in teh Coachella valley,struggling to balance relief efforts with long-term housing needs.

Airbnb Offers Support While Demand increases

While platforms like Airbnb, partnering with 211 LA, offered temporary relief for 19,000 displaced residents, hotels throughout the Southwest provided discounted rates, the influx of evacuees intensified existing housing pressures. Owens described the situation as unsustainable, noting, “Hopefully, I can figure out something very quickly that’s more sustainable, whether it’s in Joshua Tree or somewhere else.But it’s very hard to do.There are no short-term leases.”

Limited Rental Options Exacerbated Housing Crisis

the Coachella Valley, while welcoming evacuees, faces a chronic shortage of affordable housing. Vacation rentals, prevalent before the fires, contributed to rising housing costs. Travis Winn, a property manager in joshua Tree, emphasized, “I’ve had friends of friends looking for affordable places for peopel who were displaced, and I do what I can to refer them to others, but we’re kind of booked up.”

Shift in Rental Trends Offers Mixed outcomes

Jenn Gladysz, owner of a property management company specializing in vacation rentals, reported an increase in long-term rental inquiries, driven partly by evacuees seeking permanent solutions.While tourism demand has softened, the transition of vacation rentals to long-term options isn’t happening quickly enough. Many evacuees, including Owens, find themselves caught between returning to homes affected by fires or navigating the uncertainties of an expensive and competitive rental market.

Evacuation Leads to Difficult Decisions

owens’ experience highlights the emotional toll and logistical challenges faced by evacuees. Though his apartment wasn’t directly impacted, smoke, air quality concerns, and escalating rental costs have made staying in Los Angeles less appealing. Owens’ reliance on Airbnb rentals, despite affordability challenges, demonstrates the evolving dynamics of housing displacement and the reliance on temporary accommodations in the aftermath of disasters.

As the dust settles, communities and individuals grapple with the lasting consequences of wildfires. While resources have been mobilized to provide immediate relief, the quest for long-term solutions for displaced residents remains a pressing concern. Addressing housing affordability and supporting evacuees’ needs are crucial steps in rebuilding and creating resilient communities.

What strategies can communities implement to ensure affordable housing options for displaced Angelenos seeking refuge in the Coachella Valley?

Displaced Angelenos Face Desert Housing Challenges: an Interview with Local Experts

Posted on February 15,2023

Navigating the Desert Rental Landscape

Archyde: Brandon Eugene Owens,a Pasadena musician,recently fled wildfires in los Angeles and found refuge in Palm Springs. Along with thousands of other displaced Angelenos, he’s facing a strain in the Coachella Valley’s rental market. Could you share some insights on this situation?

Travis Winn, Joshua Tree property Manager: Absolutely. The demand has been incredibly high since the evacuations. The Coachella Valley was already facing a housing shortage, and now, with the influx of evacuees, it’s exacerbating the issue. Vacation rentals, which were prevalent before the fires, contributed to rising housing costs, making it even harder for long-term residents to find affordable places.

Temporary Relief vs. Long-term Solutions

Archyde: Platforms like Airbnb have offered temporary relief, but it truly seems many evacuees are struggling to find stable, long-term housing. What’s your take on this, Jenn Gladysz, a property management specialist for vacation rentals?

jenn Gladysz, Property Management Specialist: While the temporary relief has been crucial, the transition to long-term rental options isn’t happening as quickly as needed. We’re seeing an increase in inquiries for long-term rentals,but the tourism demand is still there,making it difficult for evacuees to secure long-term accommodations.

The Challenges and Decisions Faced by Evacuees

Archyde: Owens’ experience highlights the emotional toll and logistical challenges faced by evacuees. What advice do you have for those navigating this difficult situation?

Travis Winn: Firstly, I’d recommend staying flexible and open to different housing options. It might mean considering places outside the immediate coachella Valley or even revisiting the idea of returning toLos Angeles if the fires have been contained and it’s safe to do so. It’s also significant to reach out to local resources and support networks for help.

Archyde: as we look towards rebuilding, how can communities support evacuees in their long-term housing needs?

Jenn Gladysz: Communities can advocate for policies that prioritize affordable housing development and provide incentives for property owners to offer long-term leases. They can also create support networks for evacuees, helping them connect with resources and housing options. And most importantly, we need to listen to and amplify the voices of those directly affected by these crises.

Leave a comment and share your thoughts on this challenging housing situation.