This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today. Renting in California is not cheap.

The debate over renting vs. owning has long posed a challenge for households in California. Arguments have morphed in recent years as home prices and mortgage rates soared beyond the increasing rents.

California has the highest housing costs in the country, according to the National Low Income Housing Coalition. The nonprofit organization looked at what you need to make in all 50 states and the ...