PHOENIX – The cost and aftermath of high rent is something that impacts thousands of Arizonans, and as people push for lawmakers to make moves, we are getting a personal look at this issue, through the eyes of one family. Melissa Pallares wants to eventually own a home, but for her, it is already so hard to save for rent. “It’s hard, it’s very hard,” said Pallares. “Especially for people who don’t have that extra income.” Pallares, who lives in Glendale, is a working mom, and the cost of housing is almost always top of mind. “You have to pick and choose,” said Pallares. “Like, are you going to eat this week, or are you going to save for rent?” Pallares is not alone, either. According to data from the Arizona Attorney General’s Office, Phoenix saw a 76% increase in rent prices since 2016. It’s a pinch that Lupe Conchas of Glendale says he’s felt personally. “In 2023, my apartment complex, a place I had called home for many years, was bought by a corporation. Overnight, my rent surged by a staggering 14%,” said Conchas. AZ activists call for action on housing cost The cost and aftermath of high rent is something that impacts thousands of Arizonans, and activists are calling on state officials to do something about it. FOX 10’s Lauren Clark reports. Conchas, alongside other community members and activists, met at the State Capitol on Mar. 11 to demand changes. “When I was kicked out of my home in high school, I had to work two jobs to make ends meet,” said Jacob George. “I faced choices like whether to put …
