Evictions are rising to record-breaking levels across Washington state, overwhelming the legal aid system designed to protect low-income tenants. Despite pandemic-era protections and rental assistance programs, a mix of rising rents, stagnant wages, and shrinking federal aid is pushing more people toward housing instability. The state’s Right to Counsel program, once a national model, is now under immense strain as demand outpaces available resources. A newly passed rent stabilization law offers a measure of hope, but advocates warn it won’t be enough to stop the crisis from deepening.
Read: New Columbus Division to Hold Landlords Accountable, Curb Evictions
Evictions Reach Historic Highs Across the State
In early 2025, Washington recorded its highest-ever number of eviction filings for a single month. January saw a 66 percent increase in filings in King County compared to pre-pandemic levels. Statewide, filings surged 41 percent from 2023 to 2024, and the current fiscal year is on pace to surpass that. Rising rents, fewer affordable housing options, and the end of pandemic-era protections have all contributed to this escalation.
Also read: Arizona Starter Homes Bill ‘Likely to Fail’ as Cities Fight to Keep Zoning Power
Right to Counsel Program Reaches Breaking Point
Washington’s Right to Counsel program began in 2021 to provide free legal representation to low-income tenants facing eviction. Initially, the program was able to represent nearly every eligible tenant. But by early 2025, the program in King County had to begin triaging cases due to overwhelming demand. Priority is now given to households with children, disabilities, or language barriers.
Also read: New Mexico Moves Forward with Renters’ Bill of Rights to Protect Tenants
Legal Aid Yields Better Outcomes for Tenants
Despite being stretched thin, the Right to Counsel program has made a clear difference. Since its launch, 56 percent of tenants represented under the program have been able to stay in their homes, either through dismissed cases or negotiated agreements. Before the law, fewer than 10 percent of tenants had legal representation in eviction court.
Also read: Cambridge Orthodox Group Pushes 5-Story Religious Center Amid Zoning Changes
Housing Costs Rise as Federal Aid Shrinks
The growing eviction crisis is occurring alongside major cuts to federal assistance programs. Proposed reductions include a 40 percent cut to HUD’s rental assistance and a $700 billion reduction in Medicaid, affecting over 600,000 Washington residents. These cuts could further destabilize low-income households already on the edge.
Also read: Wealthy Residents Oppose $1.5B Chelsea NYCHA Project
Landlords Push Back Against Legal Delays
Some property owners argue that the Right to Counsel law slows the eviction process and increases costs. They say cases are dragged out in court, and that tenants who cannot afford rent should not remain in units. Landlord groups have called for broader definitions of health and safety concerns to expedite certain evictions, though few such cases have materialized under existing criteria.
Also read: Pre-Civil War Hotel Restored, Listed for $700,000 in North Carolina
Disproportionate Impact on Marginalized Groups
Data shows that eviction proceedings disproportionately affect vulnerable populations. Over 40 percent of tenants facing eviction are people of color, and more than 30 percent identify as having a disability. In Clark County, which has the highest per capita eviction rate, one in every 300 residents has gone through the process.
Also read: Final Tenants Leave as Regency Square Mall Closes Interior After 60 Years
Spokane County Faces Growing Caseload
Spokane County, with the fourth-highest eviction count in the state, saw a 30 percent rise in filings from 2023 to 2024. Two small legal aid firms there still manage to serve all eligible tenants but are under increasing pressure. In response, an eviction prevention clinic now operates from the downtown library to provide early legal support and connect renters to available resources.
Also read: Arizona Starter Homes Bill ‘Likely to Fail’ as Cities Fight to Keep Zoning Power
Mobile Home Tenants Push for Change
Rent spikes have also affected residents of mobile home parks. In Auburn, tenants faced increases as high as 55 percent in a single year. Many left because they could not afford the new rates. Advocacy from residents helped push for new statewide rent stabilization measures. The law caps annual rent hikes at 7 percent plus inflation or 10 percent, whichever is lower. For mobile home parks, increases are limited to 5 percent. Landlords must now give tenants 90 days’ notice before raising rent. Advocates say the law is a step forward but caution it will not fully address the housing affordability gap.