Affordable Housing
An advertising sign for building land stands in front of a new home construction site in Northbrook, Illinois in this file photo from December 2021.
Nam Y. Huh/AP

Housing shortage, rising prices, and income requirements: Why buying or renting a home is so difficult in 2026

The Trump Administration says it wants to rein in corporations and private equity buying up single-family homes — aimed at alleviating a tight housing market that has seen significant price increases. What does this mean for homebuyers in Illinois? 


The 21st Show is Illinois' statewide weekday public radio talk show, connecting Illinois and bringing you the news, culture, and stories that matter to the 21st state. Have thoughts on the show or one of our episodes, or want to share an idea for something we should talk about? Send us an email: talk@21stshow.org. If you'd like to have your say as we're planning conversations, join our texting group! Just send the word "TALK" to (217) 803-0730. Subscribe to our podcast and hear our latest conversations.   

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast 
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6PT6pb0 
Find past segments, links to our social media and more at our website: 21stshow.org.

In this Oct. 14, 2020, file photo, housing activists erect a sign in Swampscott, Mass. A federal freeze on most evictions is set to expire soon. The moratorium, put in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in September, was the only tool keeping millions of tenants in their homes.
AP Photo/Michael Dwyer

What’s Next For Renters in Illinois?

According to the Census Bureau, about 6.5 Americans have fallen behind on their rent payments since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. The national moratorium on evictions expired August 1. The 21st spoke to organizations around the state about what help is available for struggling tenants.

Ashley Brown/Flickr (CC BY-NC 2.0)

Rent Control In Illinois; Women And Personal Finance; Sports Update; LEGO Exhibit At Brookfield Zoo

With more American households renting now than at any point in the last 50 years, some lawmakers say it’s time to get rid of Illinois’ ban on rent control. Plus, can forgoing a daily latte really put you on better financial footing? It’s just some of the advice women are calling out. And, Chicago Cubs shortstop Addison Russell is back on the field after being suspended for domestic violence. Also, throughout the summer, Brookfield Zoo visitors can experience the new “Brick Safari” Exhibit, which includes 40 different life-size animal sculptures.

More articles →