Preliminary Analysis: Eviction Filing Patterns in 2022

This report from Eviction Lab documents the national, post COVID rise in evictions. “Over the last three years, eviction filing rates across the United States fell below levels that were normal prior to the COVID-19 pandemic… But evidence from 2022 shows that this exceptional period when renters had additional tools to remain housed has come to an end. Eviction filings are increasing as policies expire.” Not only are eviction filings increasing, they are outpacing pre-pandemic levels.

The chart below shows the eviction filings increase from 2021 to 2022. While Indianapolis is in the bottom third with a 21.5% increase, keep in mind it was already the 2nd highest city in total evictions. A 21.5% increase firmly cements Indianapolis as #2.

While other state and city governments are exploring diversion programs and rental assistance, Indianapolis and Indiana are doing little to address these problems. “Political creativity over the last few years produced a range of new approaches to eviction prevention and tenant organizing that weren’t previously on the table. That led to lasting change in cities and states across the country. In cities like Los Angeles and Philadelphia that made tenant protections a priority, how has that led to changes in eviction filing patterns? Meanwhile, which cities simply reverted to old habits, or established worse patterns?” Indianapolis is firmly part of the crowd that has simply reverted to old habit.